The Game Changer’s Guide to Career Pivots: From Finance to Games

💼 Why Business Acumen is a Gaming Superpower

Amir’s story challenges the traditional idea that a career in games must be a direct line from a specific education or passion project. He credits his background in finance and business development for giving him a unique lens. He emphasizes that everyone in the industry, from artists to engineers, can benefit from a basic understanding of corporate finance.

In an industry with increasing scrutiny on investment and costs, understanding how a business's financials work is more important than ever. Amir says this knowledge helps people understand the "why" behind business decisions and provides a valuable perspective on topics like game monetization strategy and long-term game sustainability.

🎮 Passion vs. Profession: The Gamer's Dilemma

While transferable skills are key, Amir is quick to point out that they are only part of the formula for success. He believes it makes a huge difference to love the industry and to be "super intense about games themselves". This passion helps you stay on top of an industry that never slows down.

However, he also cautions against the idea that a love for playing games automatically translates into a love for working in the industry. As he puts it, "it's not all fun and games". A hobby that becomes a job can lose its joy. Amir himself says that over 90% of his playtime is on titles he needs to evaluate for work, not what he would personally choose to play.

🛠️ Lifelong Learning: The Game Dev's Secret Weapon

Amir’s impact extends far beyond his day job. He has built a massive community, helping thousands of people find jobs and opportunities. He attributes this success to a core philosophy: being a good person and prioritizing community. His mom’s lifelong involvement in community work deeply impressed upon him the importance of helping others.

He also stresses the importance of continuous education and being open to new opportunities. Inspired by his father, a physician, Amir views his own professional development as "continuing education" that is necessary to remain "certified" to do his job. He constantly seeks out new tools and resources by asking other professionals what they're using, from engines like Unity to platforms like UEFN and Roblox.

🤝 Networking is a Marathon, Not a Sprint

For anyone looking to break into the industry, Amir offers a blunt truth: a cold application is almost guaranteed to fail. Networking is literally the most important thing you can do to get a job. His biggest piece of advice is to network all the time, not just when you need a job.

He advises people to adopt a long-term mindset, focusing on building genuine relationships. As he puts it, "I just want to spend time with you and have a fun conversation with you as a human. That is what gets you where you want to go". This approach, focused on building genuine relationships, is what ultimately opens doors.

"I think it's healthy that any industry like games has people who aren't all like games lifers."

Conclusion: Your Career Superpowers

Amir Satvat’s journey is a powerful reminder that the most compelling careers are often built by people who don’t follow a traditional path. His story is about the value of transferable skills, the importance of genuine passion, and the power of building a strong community. For studio leaders and publishers, this means actively seeking out talent from diverse backgrounds, knowing that their unique perspectives and skills can bring new life to a business. For those looking to get in, it means reframing your resume not as a list of jobs, but as a collection of superpowers.

What skills from your past career could be a secret weapon in the world of games? 👾