Gaming has evolved from just a hobby to a full-fledged career option for many. With the rising popularity of esports and live streaming, there are several ways for gamers to earn money today apart from just playing games for fun. Here are some of the most popular and lucrative ways gamers can make money from their passion.
Stream on Platforms
Live streaming gameplay on platforms like Twitch, YouTube Gaming, Facebook Gaming etc. has become one of the top ways for gamers to earn money. By building an audience and having people subscribe to your channel or donate during your streams, you can start making decent income. The more popular streamers even get sponsorships from brands.
To be successful at streaming, you need to have engaging commentary, be good at the games you play, and have a consistent schedule. It takes time to build the initial audience. But once you have a loyal following, streaming can become a full-time career. Top streamers easily make over $100,000 a year from platforms like Twitch.
Esports Tournaments
The esports industry has exploded in recent years. There are tons of tournaments and leagues across games like Dota 2, Fortnite, CS:GO, Call of Duty etc. that have prize pools running into millions of dollars. If you are exceptionally skilled at a popular competitive game, you can join or form a team and compete in these high-stakes tournaments.
Winning or finishing high up in the rankings in just one major tournament can earn you tens of thousands of dollars. Top esports athletes can make over a million dollars in prize money annually through consistent performances. Brand sponsorships also add to your earnings as an esports player.
YouTube Videos
Gaming-related content is hugely popular on YouTube. You can make and monetize videos like walkthroughs, tips & tricks, easter eggs, speed runs, reviews and more around games. Unboxing rare gaming merchandise is also a trending video idea. The more engaging your content and higher your subscribers, the more money you can earn from YouTube.
Popular YouTubers also earn from sponsorships, selling merchandise and even getting a share of revenue from games they promote. Making high-quality, regular YouTube videos can become a full-time job if you build a large subscriber base.
Game Coaching & Tutoring
If you have in-depth knowledge of a particular game and are skilled at it, you can offer personalized coaching services to other gamers looking to improve their skills. You can promote and sell your coaching services on platforms like Metafy, GamersRdy and others dedicated to such services.
You can coach players on aspects like developing strategies, improving aim, getting better at building, and general gameplay tips. Your reputation and skill level determines how much you can charge per session. It's a great way to earn by sharing your gaming knowledge.
Game Testing
Gaming companies need people to test their games extensively before launch to identify and fix bugs. As a gamer, you likely have a good eye to spot issues in games and provide feedback to developers.
Signing up at websites that connect testers to gaming firms can help you find paid game testing gigs. The pay depends on the type and scope of testing required. It's an easy way to earn from home for gamers.
Sell Merchandise
Once you gain a sizable audience on streaming and video platforms, you can earn additional income by selling branded merchandise. T-shirts, hoodies, mugs, posters etc. with your gaming persona's logo or quotes are hot-selling items among loyal fans.
You can either manufacture and sell the merchandise on your own website, or partner with a site like Teespring that handles production and shipping when orders come in. A portion of each sale goes to you.
Affiliate Marketing
If you have a gaming blog, YouTube channel or social media following, you can earn commission through affiliate programs. Simply promote gaming hardware, accessories, merchandise etc. and get a cut of any sale you drive to the retailer through your link. If you are into online casino games, you can share your bonuses like free spins with your affiliate links.
Popular affiliate programs are run by gaming gear companies like Razer, Corsair, Logitech etc. It's an easy passive income stream for gamers with an established audience.
Gaming skills can be monetized in so many ways today. With dedication and consistency, gamers can start earning decent income through streaming, esports, content creation, coaching and more. The opportunities to fuel your passion into a money-making career are endless for gamers.