If game development is your passion, pursuing it can be incredibly rewarding despite the challenges. Combining a part-time degree with work is a solid plan. To add a unique dimension, consider exploring the intersection of game development and emerging technologies like IoT telematics. This could open doors to innovative projects and a dynamic career. Follow your passion and leverage your part-time degree to build a skill set that aligns with your interests and the evolving landscape of technology.
Honestly if you really want to develop games then stick to that, So I am currently in my last year of university and I have been studying game development. The only reason I chose game development is because I though it would be a fun way to learn programming and it is, however I always wanted to make software and I have been making software for the computer science modules. The difference between making software and games isn't that big since the major part is understanding programming in general, this includes OOP (Object Oriented Programming), data structures, design patterns and etc.. In game development you would just apply this knowledge using the game engines.