The games available online can vary from simple shooting games to complex role-playing games (RPGs). Some are free, while others require a paid membership. There are numerous ways to earn money from playing games online. Some prefer to play for money, while others prefer to play for fun. Finding the right mix can be fun, but it can also be very profitable. Let’s explore eight ways you can make money playing games online.
1. Selling Goodies
One way to earn money from gaming is to sell items you have created during the game. In most cases, these are referred to as game props, or simply props. You can create a list of all the goodies you have available for sale. In some instances, players will pay you directly for your props; in other instances, you can ask them to go to your blog or website and make a purchase there. You can also set up a special tab on your online store – just like eBay or Amazon – to display all your gaming-related goods. If you want to make serious money, you can also set up your own online store and sell your own products, such as t-shirts, hats, and phone cases, which are all linked to your site.
2. Sponsoring
Another way to earn money from gaming is to become a sponsor. In most cases, a sponsor is an individual or company that makes a financial contribution or offers a premium product to help a team or player compete. For example, a multi-millionaire entrepreneur may decide to sponsor a table tennis team he supports. The team then purchases equipment and accessories (e.g., a table, chairs, and lamp) to use in their matches. You may choose to get involved with this type of sponsorship, where your company or individual invests in the skills and equipment of gamers.
3. Casinos & Gambling
If you’re looking for quick cash, you can try your luck at a casino. Casinos offer various games of chance, such as slots, blackjack, and roulette, as well as several forms of poker. Depending on how much money you want to wager (i.e., the amount you are willing to risk), you can either play for fun or play for money. Although casinos can be fun, they can also be very frustrating when you are losing money. For this reason, some people avoid casinos and try to play for fun only. If you do decide to play for money, try to keep a healthy balance in your checking account, because when you eventually lose, you’ll be in for a penny shock (i.e., the casino will charge you for buying a $10 ticket, even though you won only a dollar).
4. Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin
Cryptocurrencies are digital cash that can be used online. There are many different cryptocurrencies, each with its own unique features and purposes. One of the most well-known and highly regarded cryptocurrencies is Bitcoin. Bitcoin was originally designed to be cheap, easy to use, and safe, and as a result, many vendors (i.e., businesses that sell goods and/or services over the internet), especially online marketplaces, have started accepting Bitcoin as a mode of payment. If you want to learn more, you can read our comprehensive guide to cryptocurrencies or listen to podcast #34, where we discuss all things cryptocurrency, or read our in-depth article on the subject.
5. PADPROMO & In-Game Advertising
If you’re playing on a browser, you may notice that whenever you make a purchase, you’re bombarded with advertisements. These advertisements are often just as annoying as the ones on your TV, but they can also appear quite useful. Some games, such as Fortnite, actually incorporate advertisements into the game itself. When you make a purchase in these games, you have the option of either paying with real money or with an ad-credit card. If you decide to use your ad-credit card, the game will display advertisements for various products and services while you play. You may find this useful if you’re looking for something specific while playing, but remember: it’s still advertising. If you’d rather not be bombarded with advertisements while you play, you can turn them off in the settings menu of the game. In-game advertising can also be quite lucrative – all you need to do is find the right game and create a list of popular products.
6. Listing & Reviewing Games
If you’re a frequent gamer and enjoy playing various games, you can make money online by simply listing and reviewing games. To do this, you need to create a blog or website and find affiliate programs for the various platforms, including but not limited to:
- Amazon
- Google Play
- iTunes
- Windows Store
Once you have a successful blog or website, you can promote various games, and when someone clicks a link or writes about a game you promoted, you’ll earn a commission. You can learn more about blogging and how to make money from it.
7. Consoles & Hardware Development
Consoles and hardware development may not always be the most lucrative ways to earn money from gaming, but it can also be fun. If you’re looking for an easy way to make money, you can get involved in the manufacturing and sales of consoles and game accessories. You will need to create a business plan and then find the right partners, as well as develop a strong understanding of marketing and the sales cycle. Some people actually make a living off of this, and it can be a fun and rewarding experience if you’re looking to make money online. You can also develop hardware for various platforms, including but not limited to:
- Xbox
- Nintendo Switch
- Steam
- WiiU
In most cases, you will need a manufacturing company to help you get started, but once you’re up and running, you can develop your own products and start selling them online.
8. Freelancing & Online Tutoring
If none of the ideas above seem like a good fit for your personality, you can always try freelancing or online tutoring. With these gigs, you will need to create a portfolio showcasing your work. You can then establish yourself as an expert and gain a variety of projects, ranging from small tasks to full-blown product launches. When establishing yourself as an expert, make sure to find clients who are willing to pay you in cryptocurrency – otherwise, you’ll find yourself paying out of pocket. Tutoring is a good choice for those who want to earn a steady living from home, while freelancing allows you to work remotely and set your own hours. Both have their perks, but if you do decide to take either path, make sure you’re prepared to work hard.