We’re back for another round of Inside Crytek: our very own interview series which features different members of the Crytek team. First you can get up close and personal with them, and afterwards you get to ask the questions!

To submit your own questions to today’s interviewee, simply post them under the link to the article on our Facebook page, GFACE, or MyCrysis. We will then forward the best and most original questions to Michiel, and next week the answers will be posted online.

Part 2 features Michiel Meesters. Michiel is from the Netherlands and has been at Crytek since April 2012. He has previously worked for Lionshead (UK) and Gamehouse (NL) and currently works as a Junior Programmer on the CryENGINE 3.

1.       Why did you want to work in the games industry and how did you get started?

I love working in a dynamic and creative environment. Creating things and pushing the boundaries of game technology. It’s great to entertain people, see their amazement when new features for the engine are out or when new groundbreaking games hit the market. I started as an intern at a casual game studio where I came in very inexperienced, barely knowing enough C++. Afterwards I got an internship at Lionhead studios in the UK, which was really my entry to the games industry.

2.       Why Crytek?

Because I wanted to learn more about what is going on “under the hood”. So more about game engine and core technology, and what way is better than working on the CryENGINE?

3.       What are the best and worst parts of your job?

The best part is working on technology that is used by many people and studios worldwide. The worst part is probably not having a hand in the games that are produced. You create the tools and the studios create the games.

4.       What are you working on at the moment?

Big things on my schedule are multiplayer and HUD functionality for the CryENGINE. Currently I’m mostly dealing with a lot of small bugs and tasks.

5.       What music do you listen to at work?

Anything between ‘80s, pop, rock and drum ‘n’ bass. It really depends on what I’m working on and how my mood is. Sometimes I need some cheering up music, and sometimes I need some relaxing music to think.

6.       What inspires you in your work or in life?

I love to learn and gain knowledge. I like to be an all-rounder so I want to learn everything – which I know is impossible, but it is still a perfect drive for work. As for life, it’s inspiring on its own, enjoy all the small and simple moments, meet people and visit places. Today is better than yesterday, every day again.

7.       What types of games do you like, and what is your favorite game of all time?

I love playing real time strategies and party games. I’m not too much of a hardcore gamer, I like to play with friends on the couch for example. I like RPG games as well, but they take too much time for me, and I often get lost in them haha. Best game ever? That is a tough one; I loved Dues Ex, Red alert 2, Unreal tournament 2004 and Grand theft auto.

8.       What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I enjoy reading books, playing games, fixing up cars, hanging out with friends, cooking and eating, visiting festivals and playing sports. Sometimes days are just too short to do everything you want.

9.       Do you have any tips for people wanting to get started in the industry?

Of course, make a lot of projects, boost your portfolio and throw yourself out there. Grab opportunities like Gamejams, conferences and parties to meet people and make cool games. I’ve started really small and without experience as well, and every year I moved up a little. The hardest part is getting that first job, but internship programs are great for that.

Don’t forget to send Michiel your fan questions!