Play Games to Earn Money

Video games have evolved tremendously since the launch of Pong in 1958, transforming from simple pixelated entertainment into a multi-billion dollar industry. The rise of smartphone and online gaming over the past decade has led to a surge in both time and money spent on games. In fact, nearly 73% of individuals aged 4 to 20 now own at least one video game console. By 2022, the video game industry had skyrocketed, generating close to $347 billion in revenue.

As gaming has become increasingly popular, so have the opportunities to earn money through it. While playing video games all day might sound like a dream job, the reality is that there are specific ways to monetize your gaming time.

Ways to get paid to play games

While it’s unlikely that someone will pay you large sums of money just to play video games, there are several methods where gamers can earn a decent income:

1. Consume ads or sign-up offers: Advertisers are eager to reach potential buyers wherever they are, including within the games you play. Some apps share a portion of the advertising revenue with players, which can add up over time. Additionally, some apps offer small cash bonuses, ranging from $0.50 to $10, just for installing them, hoping you’ll become a regular user.
2. Earn milestone rewards: Certain games reward players with cash or gift cards for reaching specific levels or unlocking features. The more complex the game and the higher the level achieved, the greater the potential rewards.
3. Win contests: Entering trivia games, sweepstakes, and tournaments can lead to cash prizes or a share of a prize pool. These contests offer a chance to test your luck and gaming skills for a potential payout.
4. Play games of chance: In many regions, casino-like games that offer real money prizes are legal. From digital slots to lotteries and games like Blackjack, these games provide numerous opportunities to win cash, though they come with the risk typical of games of chance.
5. Play games of skill: Competitive games like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, DOTA 2, League of Legends, and Fortnite regularly host tournaments with multi-million dollar prize pools. Skilled players can earn substantial sums by participating in these competitions.
6. Gaming as a business: For those willing to put in the effort, streaming, blogging, vlogging, and securing sponsorships can lead to significant earnings. While time-consuming and challenging, the potential for income is high, with top gamers making over $500,000 per month.
7. Gaming as a career: Roles like game tester, game developer, and gaming journalist are viable career paths within the gaming industry, offering a steady income for those passionate about the field.

Even if a full-time gaming career isn’t your goal, there are still opportunities to earn money on the side. Many gamers generate enough income each month to purchase new games or upgrade their equipment simply by playing games that offer real-money rewards in their spare time.

Apps and games that pay real money 💰

While many online games offer only virtual currency or credits, there are plenty of games where you can earn actual cash. These real money-earning games often involve passively watching ads between levels or completing small tasks.

If you’re not aiming to become a professional gamer but want to earn some extra cash each month by playing games, consider these popular platforms.

Freecash

Freecash offers users multiple ways to earn real money by playing games. You can participate in game app testing by downloading and testing new apps, providing feedback to earn cash rewards. Additionally, you can earn cashback on in-app purchases, receiving money back on every transaction within your favorite games.

Progressing through games can also unlock payouts when you reach specific levels. Freecash provides daily check-in rewards, offering bonuses just for logging in regularly.

Another way to earn is by watching game trailers or promotional videos for new games.

Available on: All devices.

InboxDollars

InboxDollars is more than just a gaming app; it’s a market research platform that rewards users for sharing insights about their shopping, online, and gaming behaviors. Big brands pay to gather feedback on the games you’re playing, and InboxDollars passes some of that money on to you when you provide feedback or reach certain milestones.

InboxDollars offers dozens of free, real money-earning games, including arcade games, card games, strategy games, and more. You can also participate in cash tournaments or earn cashback and cash prizes through GSN games like Poker, Casino, and Wheel of Fortune.

Plus, new users instantly get a $5 bonus just for signing up!

Available on: All devices.

Mistplay

Mistplay is a loyalty platform available for Android devices, allowing you to earn points simply by playing games on your phone. These points can be redeemed for gift cards to Amazon, iTunes, or even video-game outlets like Nintendo and Xbox.

Mistplay features popular games such as Super Mario Run, Pokemon Go, Fruit Ninja, Solitaire, Candy Crush Saga, and more. It’s a great way to make passive income while enjoying your favorite mobile games.

Available on: Android.

Swagbucks

Swagbucks offers casual gamers the opportunity to make real money by playing games that are fun and easy to play. Signing up is simple, and new users also receive a free $10 sign-up bonus.

Once you verify your email address, you can start earning SB points towards gift cards by installing games, playing them, or earning cashback on in-game purchases.

Available on: All devices.

KashKick

KashKick offers various games like Scrabble GO, Stars Slots, and King of Avalon, with rewards that vary depending on the game. For example, you can earn $2.50 for reaching level 16 in Scrabble GO within seven days, or $20 for reaching level 17 in King of Avalon within 20 days.

Once you accumulate $10 in your account, you can cash out via PayPal, with payments processed every two weeks.

Available on: All devices.

Second Life

Second Life is a virtual world simulator where users can create avatars and interact with others in a lifelike environment. The game offers its own currency, Linden Dollars, which can be converted into real money. You can earn money by participating in hunts, contests, selling objects, or finding virtual employment.

Available on: PC, Mac.

Apps that offer casino-like games 🎲

If you enjoy casino games, several apps offer real cash prizes for outplaying your opponents or beating the house. However, keep in mind that legal regulations may apply, and some apps might not be available for real-money play in your area.

Solitaire Cash

Solitaire Cash allows users to play solitaire games for the chance to win real money. By paying an entry fee, you can participate in cash tournaments where winners are determined based on their scores. The app also offers free practice games and daily check-in rewards.

Available on: iOS, Samsung.

Blackout Bingo

Blackout Bingo is a modern twist on the classic bingo game, incorporating strategy and speed. With millions of downloads and thousands of positive reviews, this Skillz-powered game allows players to compete in real-time for cash rewards.

Available on: All devices.

Note: Cash tournaments are not available in AZ, AR, CT, DE, IN, LA, ME, MT, SC, SD, and TN.

Pool Payday

Pool Payday lets you compete in real-time 1-on-1 games for free or for cash prizes, redeemable via PayPal, Apple Pay, and more. Master your pool skills, and you can join head-to-head competitions, leagues, and tournaments for real money.

Available on: All devices.

Note: Cash tournaments are not available in AZ, AR, CT, DE, IN, LA, ME, MT, SC, SD, and TN.

Solitaire Cube

Solitaire Cube puts a fun twist on the classic game, allowing players to compete head-to-head or in large tournaments for real cash prizes. Even if you’re in a region where real-prize play isn’t available, you can still earn virtual currency to redeem for prizes.

Available on: All devices.

CryptoFarmers

Forget dusty overalls and early mornings—a new breed of farming is taking root in the digital world, and it’s ripe with opportunity. Enter Cryptofarmers, a blockchain-based game where you can cultivate a thriving virtual farm and reap the rewards in actual cryptocurrency.

Here’s how it works: swap your pitchfork for a mouse! In Cryptofarmers, you become a digital agronomist, nurturing a diverse array of virtual crops. As your pixelated harvest flourishes, you can trade your bounty for FARM tokens, the game’s native cryptocurrency. It’s like digital fertilizer, helping your crypto portfolio grow alongside your virtual fields.

FARM tokens are more than just in-game currency. They represent your stake in a vibrant, evolving ecosystem built on the Polygon blockchain, renowned for its robust security and efficiency. Possessing FARM tokens unlocks the game’s full potential, allowing you to expand your digital homestead, experiment with rare and valuable crops, and actively shape the dynamic in-game economy.

Cryptofarmers isn’t just about solo cultivation, though. The game thrives on community and friendly competition as you vie with players globally to create the most prosperous and impressive virtual farm. Climb the leaderboards, showcase your digital farming prowess, and watch your real-world rewards blossom in tandem with your pixelated fields.

Whether you’re a seasoned crypto enthusiast or a curious newcomer eager to explore the exciting realm of blockchain gaming, Cryptofarmers offers an engaging and potentially profitable way to experience the thrill of digital agriculture. The game also incorporates educational elements, teaching players about sustainable farming practices and cryptocurrency basics in an entertaining, interactive format.

Cryptofarmers regularly introduces seasonal events and limited-time crops, keeping gameplay fresh and exciting. These special occasions often come with unique rewards and opportunities to boost your FARM token earnings.

So, are you ready to get your hands dirty (virtually, of course)? Plant your first digital seeds today, nurture your virtual homestead, and watch your crypto portfolio grow alongside your bountiful harvests! With Cryptofarmers, the future of farming is just a click away—no overalls required!

More ways to make money playing games 💸

If you’re looking to monetize your gaming hobby beyond just playing popular money-earning games, there are several other avenues to explore.

Compete in eSports 🏆

eSports has skyrocketed in popularity since the late 2000s, becoming a multimillion-dollar industry where players compete in organized tournaments, either as amateurs or professionals. These competitions are streamed to millions of fans worldwide, with top prizes often exceeding $1 million. Whether you’re dominating in Call of Duty or excelling in online tournaments, eSports could be your path to big earnings.

The average eSports gamer makes around $60,000 annually, with top earners raking in over $6 million by 2020. In the US, major tournaments offer prizes up to $200,000 per event, with multiplayer competitions providing even larger rewards for teams. While not everyone will win big, the potential for substantial cash prizes is significant.

Start a gaming YouTube channel or podcast 🎥🎙️

Launching a gaming YouTube channel or podcast is a simple and cost-effective way to turn your gaming passion into a revenue stream. All you need is compelling content and decent equipment. Begin by shooting videos on your smartphone and editing them to create engaging content.

Whether you’re creating playthrough videos, comparing gaming systems, or offering tips and tricks, the key to success is maintaining a captivating channel. As your audience grows, so will the expectations for higher-quality content and presentation, which can lead to increased revenue from ads, sponsorships, and fan donations.

Start a Twitch gaming channel 🎮

Twitch is a leading live-streaming platform for gamers, allowing you to broadcast gameplay, eSports competitions, music videos, and more. It integrates with consoles like Xbox and PlayStation, as well as devices like Amazon Fire TV and Google Chromecast.

The more views your Twitch channel garners, the greater your earning potential. Once you attract a consistent audience of 500 regular viewers per video, you can apply to become a Twitch Partner. As a Partner, you earn money from subscribers, with Twitch paying $2.50 per subscriber. You can also receive direct donations from your fans, further boosting your income.

Find gaming sponsors 🤝

Just like professional athletes, top gamers can earn significant income through sponsorships. Depending on your popularity, you might land lucrative deals by promoting brands or wearing sponsored gear during tournaments. Even if you’re not a top-tier player, smaller or emerging brands may still offer sponsorship opportunities, providing cash, free products, or other benefits.

Participate in online card tournaments 🃏

If you enjoy card games, online poker, and gambling tournaments offer a chance to win real money from the comfort of your home. Websites like Casino.org list active and upcoming tournaments for games like poker and blackjack.

Before diving in, ensure that the sites or tournaments are legitimate and legal in your area. It’s crucial to vet each platform to avoid scams and legal issues.

Create and sell gaming merchandise 🛍️

Turn your love for gaming into a business by creating and selling merchandise based on popular games or gaming culture. Whether it’s T-shirts, mugs, phone cases, or printable items like tournament brackets, there are numerous ways to monetize your creativity.

Platforms like Teespring and CafePress allow you to design and sell wearable items, while Canva is ideal for creating printables or notebooks that can be sold on your website or Etsy. Remember to comply with copyright and trademark laws to avoid legal complications.

Sell retro games and gaming equipment 🎮

If you’ve been a gamer for years, chances are you have old games or consoles lying around. Selling retro games and equipment is a great way to declutter and earn extra cash.

Start by listing your items on platforms like Decluttr and eBay, or explore local stores, Facebook Marketplace, and yard sales. The value of your games will depend on their age, condition, and rarity, with some items fetching high prices due to their demand.

Gaming careers: Opportunities behind the screen 🎮

If you’re passionate about the gaming industry but prefer to work behind the scenes, there are several exciting career paths to consider.

Launch a gaming blog 📝

While many gamers are creating successful vlogs, the world of gaming blogs remains relatively untapped. Starting a gaming blog allows you to carve out your niche and potentially generate a side income. By producing compelling content that resonates with fellow gamers, you can attract traffic, sponsors, and partnerships with gaming companies.

Monetize your blog through affiliate marketing by recommending gaming gear or games, or by integrating it with your YouTube or Twitch channel. You can also create and sell eBooks or courses packed with your best gaming tips, opening up another revenue stream.

Become a game tester 🎮🧪

Game testing offers a unique opportunity to get paid for playing games while providing valuable feedback to developers. While some positions require a background in software and data analysis, many companies are simply looking for gamers to test beta versions of their upcoming releases.

As a beta tester, you’ll report on your gaming experience, identify bugs, and suggest improvements, helping developers fine-tune their products before launch.

Pursue a career as a video game developer 💻🎨

Video game developers are the creative minds behind every game, responsible for everything from graphics design to functionality. If you have a passion for gaming combined with strong graphic design and coding skills, this could be your ideal career path.

While a college degree can be beneficial, it’s not a strict requirement. Numerous online programs can teach you the skills needed for game design and development, enabling you to turn your passion into a profession.

Provide technical support 🔧🕹️

If you excel at troubleshooting and helping others solve their gaming-related issues, a career in technical support might be perfect for you. Whether it’s resolving system errors or guiding users through setup, your communication and problem-solving skills can be invaluable.

Technical support professionals in the gaming industry earn an average of $44,000 per year, with the potential to work remotely. This role can also serve as a stepping stone to more advanced positions within the industry.

Become a video game journalist 📰🎮

For those who love gaming and have a knack for writing, a career as a video game journalist could be highly rewarding. As a journalist, you’ll cover everything from industry trends and new game releases to interviews with top gamers and live event coverage.

You can start by contributing to industry-specific blogs, websites, or magazines, or by freelancing and building your own portfolio. A degree in journalism is helpful but not mandatory for breaking into this field.

Setting realistic expectations 📈

While making money through gaming is possible, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Whether you’re playing for an audience, competing in tournaments, or working behind the scenes, the chances of earning a six-figure income are slim without significant effort and commitment.

However, if you’re dedicated to growing your skills, building a platform, and engaging with an audience, your passion for gaming can become a viable way to earn money online. Just remember, success in the gaming industry—like any other field—requires patience, persistence, and hard work.