45 Best Ways To Make Money Playing Video Games

Ever found yourself daydreaming about making money playing video games? Well, it's time to turn that dream into reality.

The gaming world has evolved tremendously over the years, and today, it's not just about playing games for fun.

It's about making some serious cash too. Yes, you heard it right. You can make money playing video games.

In this post, I will share 20 best ways to make money playing video games and turn your gaming passion into a profitable venture.

So, whether you're a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, buckle up because you're about to embark on an exciting journey into the lucrative world of gaming.

How To Make Money Playing Video Games: 20 Proven Ways That Works

Before we dive into the 20 best ways to make money playing video games, let's first understand how it's possible.

From streaming your gameplay to testing new games, there are numerous ways to monetize your gaming skills. All you need is a passion for gaming, a strategic approach, and of course, a little bit of luck.

1. Start A Gaming Channel On YouTube

Starting a gaming channel on YouTube is one of the most popular ways to make money playing video games. Here's how it works: you play your favorite games, record your gameplay, and upload the videos on YouTube. You can add commentary, tips, and tricks to make your videos more engaging.

Once you've built a substantial following, you can monetize your channel through YouTube's Partner Program. This allows you to earn money from ads displayed on your videos. The more views and clicks your videos get, the more money you make.

In addition to uploading recorded gameplay, you can stream live games on YouTube. Live streaming is a great way to interact with your audience in real-time.

You can answer their questions, respond to their comments, and even play games with them. Plus, YouTube allows you to monetize your live streams like your regular videos, so you can earn money while playing live games.

2. PlayVig

PlayVig is a unique platform that allows gamers to earn money while playing their favorite video games.

After signing up and installing the system on your computer, you can earn by playing various popular games partnered with PlayVig.

The process is simple. Complete quests in Fortnite, Overwatch, Hearthstone, CS: GO, and PubG to earn PlayVig coins. These coins can then be redeemed for rewards like PayPal cash, gift cards, or exciting prizes.

Moreover, PlayVig also hosts weekly tournaments and leaderboards, offering additional opportunities to earn money. Advertisements played before matches help generate revenue that is paid out to players.

In terms of value, 1,000 PlayVig coins are equivalent to $1. While it may not make you rich, PlayVig provides a fun and engaging way to earn passive income while gaming.

3. Mistplay

Imagine earning cash while enjoying your favorite mobile games. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, that's precisely what Mistplay offers. This Android-exclusive platform rewards you for every minute you spend playing games.

Here's how it works:

• Download the Mistplay app on your Android device.
• Choose from a variety of partnered mobile games available on the app.
• Start playing and earning points.

The more you play, the more points you earn. These points can be redeemed for various rewards, including Visa gift cards, Google Play credits, and more.

With over a million downloads and a solid 4.5-star rating, Mistplay is leading the charge in the play-to-earn arena. However, iOS users might have to sit this out as the app is currently unavailable for Apple devices.

4. Swagbucks

One of the most popular platforms to make money playing video games is Swagbucks. It's a rewards website that offers a variety of ways to earn, including playing games.

Whether you're into action, strategy, or puzzle games, there's something for everyone on Swagbucks.

You can earn points, known as Swagbucks (SB), for playing games, watching ads, shopping online, and even surfing the web.

These points can then be redeemed for PayPal cash or gift cards to your favorite stores. The best part? You can start cashing out your earnings at just $5 for PayPal cash and $1 for gift cards.

New members often receive a sign-up bonus, giving you a head start on your earnings. With frequent updates to its gaming offers, you'll never run out of opportunities to make money on Swagbucks.

5. Take Part In Gaming Tournaments

Gaming tournaments are a fantastic way to make money playing video games. They're not just for the pros anymore; anyone can participate in these tournaments at conventions or online.

The potential earnings can range from a few hundred to thousands of dollars per win, depending on the event's popularity and your ranking.

There are several ways to monetize your participation in gaming tournaments. You can earn money by winning or placing in competitions, which can be solo, duo, or team-based.

Securing sponsorships from equipment manufacturers, energy drink companies, or other businesses is another lucrative option. You can also sell merchandise related to your team or as an individual player.

Several platforms, such as Facebook Gaming, Game Battles, and Gamerz Arena, host gaming tournaments. Some of these are free to enter, while others may require an entry fee.

Regardless of the platform, participating in gaming tournaments is a thrilling and potentially profitable venture.

6. Become A Video Games Tester

Have you ever considered turning your knack for finding glitches into a money-making opportunity? Becoming a video game tester, also known as a Quality Assurance (QA) Tester, could be your ticket to earning money while gaming.

QA Testers play a crucial role in video game development. They provide independent feedback to developers about game functionality and user experience.

Their tasks include playing through different game designs, characters, levels, and modes, reporting glitches and bugs, evaluating user experience, and actively trying to "break" the game to identify potential issues.

The average QA tester can earn around $36 per hour, with potential earnings reaching up to $58 depending on factors such as the employer, payment structure, platforms tested, and their own testing experience.

For job opportunities, check out platforms like FlexJobs, BetaBound, BetaFamily, GBTN, iGameLab, Indeed, Player Research, and PlaytestCloud.

7. Become A Video Games Journalist

If you have a knack for writing and a love for video games, becoming a video games journalist could be your ticket to making money.

As a video games journalist, you get to share your insights about the gaming industry through various mediums such as news pieces, blog posts, commentary, podcasts, and breaking news.

This role can be quite lucrative, with the average pay around $24 per hour, and higher-end earnings reaching up to $60 per hour. This is particularly true for freelancers who can pitch to multiple outlets.

You can make money by writing for games websites, covering games on digital radio, creating news podcasts, working for news organizations, producing video game documentaries, and gaining support on platforms like Patreon.

Many games journalists are freelancers who pitch ideas to news organizations or create content on their own websites.

However, you can also find job opportunities on sites like FlexJobs, GamesIndustry.biz, IGN, Simply Hired, VGJobs, and Virtual Vocations. So, if you're passionate about gaming and have a way with words, this could be a great way for you to make money playing video games.

8. Become A Video Game Coach

And if you're a seasoned gamer with skills that others admire, then becoming a video game coach could be the perfect way for you to make money playing video games.

As a coach, you can earn anywhere from $30 to $60 per hour on average, coaching others on their favorite games like League of Legends or Call of Duty.

This is not just a small-time gig, mind you. Video game coaching is a billion-dollar industry, and it's growing every day.

You can find coaching opportunities on platforms like Fiverr, Gamer Coach, Gamer Sensei, and ProGuides. Job boards like Indeed and Simply Hired may also list game coaching jobs.

So, if you've got the skills and the patience to teach, this could be your golden ticket to make money playing video games.

9. Become a Professional eSport Player

Imagine making money playing video games by simply doing what you love most - gaming. Becoming a professional eSport player is one of the most lucrative ways to achieve this.

eSports Pros are highly skilled and dedicated players who focus on specific games like League of Legends, Fortnite, or Dota 2.

The average eSports pay is around $25 per hour, but top players can earn significantly more. eSports revenue globally surpassed $1 billion in 2019, and successful players like Jesse Vainikka (JerAx) earned millions, with daily earnings of around $8,667.

As a top-tier eSports Pro, your earning potential can be in the millions, but this requires being part of a competitive team that regularly enters tournaments.

Your income would come from winning prize pools in tournaments, earning a salary from the team, securing brand sponsorships, and making appearances at conventions.

Contracts and bonuses for winning league titles may also be part of your compensation.

10. Stream Your Gameplay on Twitch

Streaming gameplay on Twitch is a fantastic way to monetize your gaming passion. Twitch is a live streaming platform where gamers from all around the world broadcast their gameplay.

It's not just about showing off your skills, but also about building a community of like-minded individuals.

To start making money on Twitch, you need to become a Twitch Partner, which requires a consistent streaming schedule and a decent number of regular viewers.

Once you achieve this, you can start earning through ad revenue, subscriptions, and donations from your viewers. Remember, the key to success on Twitch is consistency, engaging with your audience, and of course, providing entertaining content.

11. Rewarded Play

Have you ever thought about getting paid to play games on your phone? Well, Rewarded Play is here to make that happen.

This mobile app allows you to earn points simply by downloading and playing new Android games. The points you accumulate can then be redeemed for a variety of free gift cards.

With hundreds of games across different genres such as action, strategy, adventure, card, and puzzle games, there's always something new and exciting to play.

And the best part? You can start redeeming your rewards with just $5 worth of points.

Rewarded Play constantly adds new games to its roster, ensuring you never run out of fresh and exciting games to explore. This app is not just about making money, it's about having a blast while doing it right from your phone.

12. Writing Video Game Guides

Are you a master at a particular game and love sharing your knowledge with others? Writing video game guides could be your ticket to making money.

Players across the globe are always on the lookout for guides to help them level up their gaming skills. This high demand has led to a surge in websites that pay authors for their unique game guides.

Websites like Gamerguides and ProGuides offer paid writing positions for game guides.

If you have a significant social media or streaming following, you could even score a partnership opportunity with ProGuides. Cultured Vulture is another platform that pays for game guides.

Sure, it might be a bit challenging, but if you're passionate about writing and gaming, it's definitely worth a shot.

And remember, you can always explore other video game guide websites for potential paid writing positions. Just reach out and inquire about opportunities.

13. Players Lounge

Are you looking for a high-stakes, competitive gaming platform? Look no further than Players Lounge. This platform allows gamers to compete head-to-head in popular games like Fifa, NBA 2K, Madden, Call of Duty, Street Fighter, and Apex Legends.

The buy-ins for these matches range from a mere $2.50 to a whopping $500. The winner walks away with the cash, minus a 10% cut that goes to the Players Lounge.

But it's not all about the money. Players Lounge also hosts free tournaments with impressive rewards. Regular competitions offer up to $5,000 for games like Madden or NBA 2K.

Before jumping in, remember that you must be 18 or older to participate. Also, the platform is unavailable in Arizona, Iowa, and Louisiana.

If you're new to Players Lounge, you'll receive $10 and a free match after making a deposit. So, gear up and get ready to turn your gaming skills into cash!

14. Kashkick: Play Games and Earn Cash

Kashkick is a platform that rewards its users with real cash for engaging in various activities, including playing new games. The platform offers a wide variety of games to choose from, each with its own reward.

For instance, you can earn $20 for playing King of Avalon, $6 for Coin Master, and $9 for Mafia City, among others.

The catch here is that some games require you to reach specific achievement levels to receive payment.

For example, you need to reach level 16 in Harvest Land and level 10 within three weeks in Kings Throne. But hey, if you're already a gaming enthusiast, this should be a piece of cake!

To cash out your earnings, you need to reach a minimum threshold of $10. Once you've reached this amount, you can easily withdraw your earnings through PayPal.

Besides gaming, Kashkick also offers other activities like downloading apps and answering short surveys to help you reach the reward threshold faster.

15. Making Money with JustPlay

Let's talk about JustPlay, a unique loyalty program designed specifically for Android gamers.

The concept is simple yet exciting - you download and play new games, and in return, you earn money. The more you play, the more coins you accumulate.

What sets JustPlay apart is its cash-out feature. Unlike other apps, you can cash out to PayPal every three hours.

Yes, you read that right! Every three hours. This is an attractive feature that keeps gamers hooked and engaged.

JustPlay is not just about making money; it's about keeping the gaming experience fresh and exciting. The app regularly adds new titles, offering a variety of games to choose from.

If you're looking for similar earning opportunities, you might want to check out apps like Money Well and Cash Giraffe.

These apps also offer real money payouts, giving you more options to make money playing video games.

16. InboxDollars: Play Games and Earn Money

InboxDollars is a fantastic platform that offers you the chance to earn money by playing games. It's not just about gaming, though.

This popular rewards site also allows you to earn through other activities like surfing the web, answering surveys, and even online shopping.

To join InboxDollars, you need to be at least 18 years old and reside in the United States. Once you sign up, which is free by the way, you receive a $5 bonus to start your earning journey.

When it comes to cashing out your earnings, InboxDollars offers flexibility. You can choose to cash out through PayPal or opt for various gift cards.

The minimum payout threshold typically lies between $10 to $15, depending on your chosen reward.

Sure, you may not become a millionaire using InboxDollars, but it's a fun and engaging way to earn some extra cash while gaming and completing short online tasks.

17. Play Trivia Games

If you're a trivia buff, then playing trivia games could be a fantastic way for you to earn some extra cash.

Many trivia apps offer cash prizes to players who can make it through multiple rounds without getting a question wrong. The prize pool is then split among the remaining contestants.

Some of the popular trivia apps that pay cash include Swagbucks Live, Givling (which also offers a chance to have student loan debt paid off), and HQ Trivia.

Although playing trivia apps won't make you a millionaire overnight, it's a fun way to earn some additional income if you're a trivia fan.

There are also plenty of other game apps that offer opportunities to win real money, so don't limit yourself to just trivia games. Keep exploring and you might just find the perfect game for you.

18. The Drop App

Let's talk about the Drop app. This app is primarily a cash back rewards platform for shopping, but it has recently branched out into the gaming world. Now, you can play games for money using this app.

Here's how it works: You download games through Drop and complete specific tasks within these games. As you complete these tasks, you earn Drop points.

These points can then be redeemed for free gift cards. The tasks usually involve reaching certain levels in mobile games.

The app offers an extensive list of games, with some offers paying quite well. And the best part? The Drop app is free to use.

Besides gaming, Drop also provides cash back rewards for shopping at your favorite stores, making it a versatile and lucrative app for earning money. This makes the Drop app a great addition to your gaming and shopping routine.

19. eBook Games Guide Writer

Diving into the world of video games, you'll find that there's a vast ocean of knowledge to explore. This is where an eBook Games Guide Writer comes into play.

As a writer, your role is to create comprehensive guides for video games. You could be hired by a company to do this, or you could choose to write independently.

Writing an eBook from scratch might seem daunting, but it's actually a faster process than you might think. Many people are able to produce video game books quickly, covering various aspects of a particular game in their eBooks.

As for earnings, they depend on book sales. However, according to ZipRecruiter, writers can earn an average of $35 per hour, and up to $120 per hour on the higher end.

Job opportunities for gaming eBook writers can occasionally be found on websites like FlexJobs.

For those who prefer to write and sell gaming eBooks independently, resources like a Udemy course can provide the necessary guidance to get started.

20. Become A Game Developer

If you're someone who loves to dive deep into the mechanics of video games, becoming a game developer could be a lucrative path for you.

As a game developer, you're responsible for creating the very games that you love to play.

This involves designing game mechanics, developing storylines, creating characters, and coding the game's software.

The beauty of this career path is that it combines your passion for gaming with creativity and technical skills.

And the best part? Game developers are in high demand. With the gaming industry growing exponentially, there's a constant need for fresh and innovative games. This translates into plenty of opportunities for game developers to make a substantial income.

25 More Ways To Make Money Playing Video Games: Some Skills Required

Start A Game Review Blog: Share your thoughts about games via blogging and earn from ad revenue or sponsored posts.

Become an Affiliate for Gaming Products: Promote brands and earn commission on each sale through your affiliate links.

Open an Online Store selling Game Merchandise: Sell gaming-related merchandise online such as video game apparel, collectibles.

Fairmoney, App Flame: Apps where you play games to earn money and rewards.

Become a Beta Tester: Test unreleased games and provide feedback to improve them.

Become a Video Games Translator: Translate video games into different languages.

Sell Your Strategies as eBooks or Hard Copy Books: Write strategy guides for games and sell them online.

Start a Patreon for Exclusive Content: Create unique content on Patreon that people are willing to pay for like secret game strategies or tips.

Use Apps That Pay to Play Games (e.g., Bananatic): These apps reward users with points that can be exchanged for money or gift cards for playing games on the platform.

Become an Online Game Tutor: Teach others how to play certain video games and earn money by giving lessons.

Freelance on Gaming related Tasks (graphics, coding etc.): Offer your gaming related skills e.g., game development, graphics design, etc., as a freelancer on platforms like Upwork, Freelancer etc.

Design and Sell Game Skins and Avatars: Create unique virtual items like skins or avatars in video games and sell them online.

Make Money Testing Video Game Hardware: Beta test unreleased game hardware (like consoles) for companies in exchange for payment.

Develop and sell game mods: Develop modifications ("mods") of existing video games to enhance the gameplay experience, then sell these mods online to other players.

Start Promoting Video Games As An Influencer On Social Media: Leverage your social media audience to promote video game products or services in exchange for payment from the associated company.

Sell Virtual Property In Online games: Make Real-life money by selling virtual property like avatars, weapons & even real estate inside Multiplayer online role-playing games(MMORPGs).

Contact Video Game Publishers For Sponsorship Deals: Basically you would become the face of their brand acting as an influencer in exchange they will sponsor your videos giving you resources like free products etc..

Create And Sell Physical Video Game Collectibles and Art: If you're creative enough create unique physical items related to your favorite titles & handcraft items & sell them via a shopify store or Etsy

Offer Peer-To-Peer Gaming Lessons as a Tutor through SuperProf or Vygo: Basically if you're good at gaming other people will literally pay you per hour to teach them secrets of beating popular titles

Create Your Own Indie Games To Sell On Steam Or Other Platforms: If you're skilled at coding create an enticing story with great mechanics which players will actually enjoy playing. Use software such as Unity or Unreal Engine to develop your game.

Teach Others How To Build Their Own Successful Streaming Service:This involves sharing knowledge about the technical aspects and marketing strategies required to create and operate a successful online streaming platform.

Stream On Other Platforms Such As DLive Or Mixer:DLive and Mixer are platforms like Twitch where gamers can livestream their gameplay. By spreading their content across multiple platforms, streamers can maximize their audience reach and potential income.

Write And Record Original Soundtracks For Indie Developers:Creating unique music scores for independent game developers not only offers artistic satisfaction, but it could also turn out to be a profitable venture.

Hosting Gaming Events Or Conventions Could Be Profitable Too:Organizing gaming events or conventions involves planning and hosting gatherings for game enthusiasts where they can interact, play games and participate in competitions. Through ticket sales, sponsorships, and merchandise sales these events can be lucrative.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, make money playing video games is no longer a pipe dream. It's a reality that many gamers are living today.

The key is to find the method that works best for you and stick with it. Whether it's streaming, testing, competing, or creating content, there's a money-making opportunity for every type of gamer out there.

So, pick your path, hone your skills, and start your journey towards turning your gaming passion into a profitable venture. Happy gaming!