Posted
by Matt Cox
June 29, 2005 at 3:31 p.m.
Almost got the Halo job
Next May, my wife graduates from Pharmacy school and more than likely we will be moving up to Seattle. She can get a job anywhere and I am looking to get into the development side of the VG industry. Although I think a career as a VG journalist would be fun, I'd rather be in the creative process. Just like music: I'd rather be playing than listening.A few weeks ago I noticed Bungie (Halo developer) had an opening for a Multiplayer Designer position. Essentially, this person would be in charge of the layouts of multiplayer maps for Bungie projects. It was a dream opportunity right up my alley. I have experience making maps for Halo for PC and am really in tune with the Halo universe. So I, along with hundreds of others, applied.One week later I was notified I had survived the first round.I was given a design test from Bungie. By the very nature of the questions, you could tell Bungie clearly wanted people to understand the major and subtle differences between a Halo game and an Unreal, Quake or even a Ghost Recon. The second half of the test had me design (planning) an entire level then explaining my design choices at length.This was the coolest interview process ever.Sure, I probably had a small chance of actually GETTING the job...but man, it was cool to be apart of that main process.During said process, I asked the surprisingly attentive and helpful Microsoft HR guy about my INITIAL resume. I asked point blank if there really was a weeding out process or if they send ALL their applicants this test I just took.He said -"We weeded out significantly first. We got about 500 inquiries and narrowed it down to about 10:"That made me feel a little fuzzier. I was one of those 10. Emily (my wife) likes to point out that when I get excited about something, it's hard for me not to live in the possibilities rather than the current reality. So, although I was VERY excited about the possibility of working for Bungie, I had to hold firm to the reality that I was only in phase two. I couldn't set myself up for disappointment.Still, to say I was one of 10 narrowed down from 500 in a hugely popular company like Bungie I think is pretty satisfying on a general level.From my rejection e-mail:"I wanted to let you know that a decision had been made about the Design position with Bungie. Unfortunately, they will not be moving forward with further interviews at this time.I would like to keep in touch with you about future openings with Microsoft... send me the job code #'s of the positions that are of interest to you: "Bummer. I am sure there were more creative people in those other nine...but it still kinda stung to feel that close, you know? If anything, I am encouraged that I do, indeed, have the chops to get a starting gig over on the development side of video games. I've had a project called "Bleeding Widow" that has been in basic development for over a year now that one day I hope I will be able to make with a talented team. It could happen. :)
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rpk (Robert Kerley) says…
Never give up, and congrats on making it that far. I got my first request for a bid (real money, even!) to do music for a game recently, and it sent me to euphoria.
Even if I never hear back, it's good to whet the appetite -- keep feeding the passion!
Swamphawk (anonymous) says…
I know how it feels. When I was graduating from college I had interviews all over the place. Every time I would get to the last 4 or 5 and then have someone else picked over me. Sure, it is probably even worse for you with it being a dream job, but I think loosing a heartbreaker is a lot worse than losing by a ton.
gamer (Matt Cox) says…
Yeah. It's all about persistence I'm sure. For all of us. Good news on your first bid, rpk!
rpk (Robert Kerley) says…
Thanks, man. I'm sure you'll have lots of opportunities in Seattle or wherever you go. We'll leave our mark someday :^].
In the meantime, its too bad there aren't more developers nearby. With companies in Tulsa and Springfield, you'd think there'd be more in KC.
gamer (Matt Cox) says…
Actually, I know JCCC with their new gaming degree was petitioning Kansas City and Overland Park to put up money to attract developers to the area. That would be great!
rpk (Robert Kerley) says…
That would be great -- the whole state of Louisiana is offering tax incentives for game developers -- maybe Kansas could follow suit.
Unfortunately, the fellow heading up the program at JCCC has taken a job at EA, and he took the job from someone who left to work at another game company. So, I hope they hurry before all the developers get out of Dodge, so to speak :^].
Jesus (anonymous) says…
The job may have fallen through, My Son, but there are greater rewards waiting for you in Heaven. Rejoice!
ichikuo (Hanluen Kuo) says…
Keep at it Matt. Sorry to hear the bad news.
So your wife is a pharmie eh? That's awesome. You should call her a pharmie. They easily have the best nick name out of the health care schools.
gamer (Matt Cox) says…
Yeah, she and her friends have two shirts...one says "Pharm Girl" and the other simply says "I (heart) Drugs."
Cool.
JackBurt0n (anonymous) says…
Those are cool shirts, but they do not beat my WTS [Wang] x1 PST shirt.
-Jack
lhs2002 (anonymous) says…
keep up da good work Matt.