How to become a virtual reality developer?

Developers should always follow the latest industry news and trends. And now there is a growing demand for developers who can develop virtual reality applications. If you’re just starting to pursue a new specialization, check the virtual reality apps development.

So what does it take to become a virtual reality developer?

1. LEARN BASIC SKILLS

Start with 3D modeling, scanning, 3D game engines, 360-degree photography, and video when starting as a virtual reality developer. 3D development, according to a State of Developer Nation study, is based on the programming languages C# and C++.

These programming languages are used by the most popular game development engines you will work with:

• Unity uses C # as the main programming language;
• Unreal Engine uses a combination of C ++ and a node-based programming language (Blueprints Visual Scripting).

If you’re a beginner, you can choose between formal university studies and online courses on platforms like Coursera, EdX, Udemy, or Lynda.

2. PICK YOUR SPECIALTY

Developers can’t do everything. Some of them specialize in a user interface (UX) while others get along with the user interface (UI).

Trying to excel in both areas won’t bring the desired result. You will always be better at something, but you will never reach your highest potential. Explore each of these two key roles at the outset, but choose the one that works best for your professional specialization.

3. SELECT THE PLATFORM YOU WANT TO WORK WITH

There are two main development platforms (engines) for virtual reality: Unity and Unreal Engine. Each developer specializes in one of them and focuses on a specific category of devices: mobile phones, desktop, or web interface.

4. JOIN THE DEVELOPER COMMUNITY

You won’t be successful as a virtual reality developer alone. You need to find a community. Try to check groups of a specific programming language at platform websites and online device manufacturer communities.

For example, you can join the Google VR Developer Community, the HTC VIVE Developer Portal, or the Unity Developer Dashboard.

5. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FREE RESOURCES

In addition to professional skills, a virtual reality developer also needs a “set” of resources to create virtual reality applications and games. Here are some of these resources:

– software development kits (SDKs), which range from free kits for HTC VIVE to very expensive ones for Microsoft HoloLens;

– 3D models from online resources such as TurboSquid, Free3D, CG Trader, or Sketchfab;

– tutorials from Unity and Unreal Engine.

Last but not least, consider moving to a city where AR / VR developers are in demand. It can be both the capital of your state and the capital of Western countries.