Canadian Student getting internship in States

For the last couple years I've wanted to make video games, and there are a few companies that are looking for interns.
I've applied in Canada, but because of some connections I have in companies down in the states, Id like to be able to apply for them too.
One of the requirements is that I must be eligible to work in the USA.

After a while of hopeless googling and getting companies that want to sell me information, I was hoping somebody here could atleast point me towards some more information about this process, the steps involved or what exactly I'd even need to apply for.

Thanks in advance

If your reason for wanting to come to the USA is your connections in companies in the USA, then those people--and not anonymous strangers on a message board--should be taking responsibility for doing a bit of heavy lifting to get you into the country legally. If they aren't willing to do so then I would see that as at least a bit of a mixed message as to how badly they really want you.

The visa you are probably looking for is the J-1 exchange visa:

http://www.aipt.org/AboutAIPT/FAQ/BG.htm

It doesn't require a degree and can be used for a summer job, but I know it is a bit more bureaucratic than the TN so probably requires a lot of advance planning.

But if I were you I'd be putting my most intense efforts into finding a great offer <b>in Canada</b> unless and until a US employer appears who is a bit more willing to go to bat for you with USCIS. It's their government and hence ultimately their responsibility as Americans to help you deal with it if they truly want you. IMHO.

Yeah, J-1 (there is no visa for Canadians, but the person employing you has to be able to issue you a DS-2019).

Other categories will be tough because the US appears to be cracking down on programmers because of all the Indian companies shipping them over. There is no TN category for programmers, although you might be able to get in as an "engineer".

be prepared to not get paid though- most internships in the US are credit only.