Monday, 13 February 2012 13:34
Written by GearsGator
GearsGator interviews Epic Games’ Steph Perry about her job, Gears of War and her future aspirations.
GearsGator: Hi Steph. Thanks for doing this interview! To start off, what is your official position at Epic Games?
Steph: My official title is Game QA tester.
GearsGator: What were the circumstances surrounding you getting hired to be a QA tester at Epic?
Steph: I submitted my resume to a staffing company (VOLT), interviewed with Epic and the rest is history. Originally, I was hired for Infinity Blade, but since then I have also worked on Gears of War 3 and Infinity Blade II.
GearsGator: Prior to Epic, did you have another gaming industry related job or is this your first?
Steph: This is my first job in the gaming industry. I played a lot of games yes, haha, but nothing official.
GearsGator: How long have you been working as a QA tester?
Steph: I’ve been working for Epic since the end of March 2011.
GearsGator: As a game tester, what are some of the daily tasks usually assigned for you to do while at work? What is your typical “day in the life?”
Steph: Well, the first thing to do is wake up and conquer the world. But, since that doesn’t always happen, I test all the aspects of the games. For instance, right now I’m focused on Infinity Blade II. We test anything and everything. Our job is to find what doesn’t work, make suggestions on how to make it better, and of course make sure the game is fun for players.
GearsGator: What are some of the games you have had the chance to test in the past? Out of those, which one did you have the most fun testing?
Steph: Since being hired, I have worked on Infinity Blade, Infinity Blade II, and Gears of War 3. Out of all of those I have spent the most time working on Infinity Blade II. But, I must say that Gears has always been a favorite of mine, even before working here.
GearsGator: Looking back, what have been some of your favorite moments while working at Epic?
Steph: The best feeling is having a game shipped and seeing the public enjoy it. When Infinity Blade II won 2011 IGN’s Mobile Game of The Year, I was really proud of what myself and the rest of the team had accomplished. Then, of course, there are the people I work with. Each and every one of them is an amazing person and I always look forward to coming to work.
GearsGator: While not testing new games, what hobbies do you like to do in your free time?
Steph: While not testing games you can often still find me playing them, but other than gaming, I play a lot of soccer. I have played since I was about four years old. I also take taekwondo. Between work and still being a student it doesn’t leave TOO much room for free time, but I try to make the most out of everything.
GearsGator: Who is your favorite character from the Gears of War series and what is your favorite gun to use while playing online?
Steph: That is a tough question. I have a secret crush on Dom, but I wouldn’t consider him my favorite. My top favorite would probably have to be Sam. My gun combo is the Lancer/Gnasher. I have recently started trying to use the Hammerburst, but for the most part I stick with a Lancer.
GearsGator: Which Gears 3 map would you say is your favorite?
Steph: My favorite so far would have to be Azura, but in the new Fenix Rising add-on, I really like Depths. I love that it’s underwater. I’ve actually been killed a few times in MP due to looking at the fish, haha.
GearsGator: Are you planning on going to any gaming conventions or other related events this year?
Steph: I’m actually pretty excited for Gears of War Charity’s Teddy Bairds for Child’s Play event. It’s the best feeling to help the lives of people, kids especially, who are less fortunate than myself. As far as bigger gaming conventions, the biggest one I have attended was MLG Raleigh this past year. I haven’t quite stepped out of my gamer shell to make it to any big events, but the time will come.
GearsGator: What are your future aspirations when it comes to working in the video gaming industry?
Steph: Well, I’m still a little undecided. When I first came to Epic, I had hoped to eventually do something in production, but after being here for a while I have been leaning more toward the marketing aspect of things. I love being involved with the community and being able to talk to the public. Stacey Conley (@iFlak), the community coordinator here at Epic, has been an such an inspiration to me. She is all-around awesome person and one of those people who make it impossible to stay in a bad mood.
GearsGator: Finally, do you have any advice for gamers out there interested in QA testing?
Steph: The biggest advice I can give is to not doubt yourself. If it’s something that you are interested in, strive to make it there. I was a 19-year-old FEMALE when I first started talking to people from Epic and I am here now because I knew this is what I wanted to do. Of course, pulling a parental roll here, stay in school!
GearsGator: Thanks for your time and we hope to see you at upcoming GCON events!
Steph: Thanks to everyone at GCON, you guys are awesome. I’m sure I will be at upcoming events. 
Don’t forget to follow Steph on Twitter here as well as the author, GearsGator!
Once a week I will be searching for one lucky Gear to be GCON’s “Gear of the Week”. What is GotW? Simple, just a quick glimpse at one of Gears of War’s community players! 
