As a result, QA does provide one thing earlier than other areas: management responsibility. Because churn is so high, it's important to put in good processes. Additionally, very few people stay. As a result, it isn't uncommon for QA managers (in any part of tech, not just games) to be in their mid-20s. This is demonstrated in the story, with the managers being in their mid 20s.
That said, as you say, it can be detrimental for software development careers.
As a result, QA does provide one thing earlier than other areas: management responsibility. Because churn is so high, it's important to put in good processes. Additionally, very few people stay. As a result, it isn't uncommon for QA managers (in any part of tech, not just games) to be in their mid-20s. This is demonstrated in the story, with the managers being in their mid 20s.
That said, as you say, it can be detrimental for software development careers.