There was once a time when people thought that playing video games professionally and earning from them would only happen in someone’s wildest dreams. However, with the tremendous growth in the gaming sector and becoming a multibillion-dollar industry, there are various ways through which gamers can make money.
Today, it is easier than ever to change your love for video games into a business that will give you some good income. By taking some strategic moves, you find yourself making money doing what you love the most. Let’s look at 5 savvy ways to make money from playing video games.
You may also like to read: Learn How To Stream On Twitch (In Simple Steps)
5 ways to make money playing video games
These are the best ways to make money by playing video games.
1. Twitch streaming
Twitch is a video-streaming site that’s heavily focused on video games. This platform is attractive not only because it can make you a lot of money, but also due to the sense of community and fun that comes with it.
On Twitch, gamers do much more than just gaming. Some of the Top streamers like Ninja, Shroud, and Pokimane have made a business out of their channels with millions in earnings from subscriptions, donations, and sponsorships.
Personality is essential for success in streaming. Successful Twitch streamers incorporate an aspect of their personality into their streams to make their content unique and must-watch.
Tip: Consistency is key. Stick to your regular streaming schedule to build and maintain an audience.
2. YouTube Gaming
There is a huge potential for gamers to earn from YouTube Gaming through ad revenues, sponsorships, and fan funding. Unlike Twitch, YouTube offers a better platform for edited and refined content.
Some gamers such as PewDiePie and Markiplier attract millions of subscribers as well as make dollars because they know how to create interesting video content.
To create a successful YouTube channel, you need to understand your audience. At first, try different kinds of content like Let’s Plays or reviews videos. The YouTube algorithm prefers consistency and, therefore, concentrates on continually delivering good quality content.
3. Facebook Gaming
Facebook Gaming may not be as popular as Twitch or YouTube, but it is gradually finding its place. Streamers have access to a varied audience because of the extensive global coverage of Facebook. The platform provides features like fan subscriptions and Facebook Stars, which are virtual coins that viewers can give to streamers and make money.
Tip: Interact in Facebook Groups so that you can increase your followers naturally.
4. Game testing
In gaming field, game testing appears to be the most interesting job ever – just play! However, it is not as easy as it seems because game testers mostly work with buggy and incomplete versions. This still offers a good opportunity for one to make money. Companies hire testers to ensure their games are perfect before release.
This job requires one to be very observant, noticing even the smallest things and being able to express them properly. Game testers usually get paid on project basis or an hourly basis depending on their level of experience and project complexity.
5. Game coaching
The increasing competition within the gaming sector has led to a higher need for competent coaches. Coaches help players in enhancing their skills, strategies as well as the overall gameplay. Popular games like League of Legends and Fortnite have thriving coaching communities.
Coaches can charge on an hourly basis and earn a lot especially if they are among the best-paid ones. To make it in this job, you need to be very good at the game itself and also have some teaching experience.
Tip: You can begin by giving coaching services on platforms like Gamer Sensei or Fiverr to build your reputation.
Top Gamers with Highest Salary
If you really want to know how much you can make by playing video games, you should check out the Top earners in the industry. These players turn their hobbies of playing games into lucrative careers.
1. Johan “N0tail” Sundstein
The prime example that one can succeed from eSports is N0tail who has made over $7 million from Dota 2 tournaments.
2. Kyle “Bugha” Giersdorf
In 2019, Bugha won the Fortnite World Cup and took home $3 million in prize money.
3. Richard “Ninja” Tyler Blevins
Known for his streaming success, Ninja has earned millions through streaming, sponsorship and his books.
4. Sebastian “Ceb” Debs
Another Dota 2 star Ceb has earned millions through his gaming prowess and charismatic presence.
Conclusion
At first, gaming was just done for entertainment but today it is a job opportunity that one can make money from and there are many options available. It does not matter if you are into live streaming, competitive gaming or content creation, there is something for everyone in the gaming industry.
All you do is follow your strengths, work hard on them, and be ready to adapt to the change with time. By being dedicated and thinking out of the box, you can turn your love for video games into a good source of income that is both enjoyable and satisfying.
