Breaking Down Barriers: A Black QA Tester's Journey in the Gaming Industry

This interview is part of GamesIndustry.biz's Black Voices Progress Report, which offers a glimpse into the diverse experiences of Black professionals in the gaming sector. For more information on the project and to access other entries, please visit this page. In a departure from our previous interviews with established professionals, an anonymous QA tester shares their story of being Black in a role that often lacks respect, regardless of the individual in the position. Their journey in the gaming industry began with a passion for the hobby, which eventually led to an opportunity to work on AAA titles. However, it wasn't until attending an in-person company party that they noticed a lack of diversity, prompting them to research and realize the severity of representation disparities within their company. This discovery sparked a desire to address the issue, but their concerns only grew as time passed, exacerbated by a schedule and remote work setup that increased feelings of isolation. The tester expresses frustration about the lack of interaction with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, citing a Black network within the company that is geographically dispersed, making it difficult to connect with others who share similar experiences. Leadership's inaction on this issue has made it challenging for the tester to express their concerns, particularly given the lack of diversity in management. Furthermore, the employee faces limited career advancement opportunities, which rely heavily on visibility to decision-makers, a challenge when working non-overlapping shifts. Despite these difficulties, attending a gaming convention last year marked a turning point, as they networked with others in the industry and discovered the Black in Gaming Foundation, providing a sense of community and new career prospects. Involvement with this organization has not only enhanced their professional growth but also improved their mental well-being, offering access to mentors and like-minded individuals. As the sole Black person in their division, their experiences are, unfortunately, not unique, and marginalized communities continue to navigate these challenges in the gaming industry. Yet, the QA tester remains hopeful for a better future, driven by the knowledge that they are not alone in their struggles. Reflecting on their time in the industry, they acknowledge that progress has been limited, but their current role has provided invaluable experience, particularly in working directly with developers. The tester emphasizes the need for more realistic portrayals of Black characters in games, moving beyond stereotypical roles and scenarios, which would require increased representation of Black professionals in decision-making positions. Ultimately, their goal is to contribute to improving the numbers of people of color, particularly Black professionals, in the gaming sector.