If you’re looking for ways to make extra cash, why not consider playing video games? There’s arguably no other industry that provides such a wealth of opportunities, especially now that the pandemic has forced individuals to get creative.
The internet has made it possible for anyone to play games, regardless of location, and with few friction points. This has enabled a new wave of people to enter the scene, looking for ways to play games for money. Sometimes, all it takes is a little research, and sometimes, you can make a lot of money very quickly!
The Growing Global Video Game Market
Even before the pandemic, the video game industry was in a state of flux, due to shifting consumer habits, increasing competition, and the rise of mobile games. But as the world grapples with the pandemic, it’s only heightened the need for quick cash. And in response, the market for online video game rentals is booming.
According to a research report from Grand View Research, and as shown in the figure below, the online video game market surpassed the hardware sales market in 2019 for the first time, capturing 19% of total video game market value, compared to 18% for hardware.
What’s more, digital game purchases as a whole grew 29% year-over-year, with the PC market accounting for 40% of total revenues.
This is because PC and console gamers alike are looking for ways to play their favorite games anytime, anywhere. It doesn’t matter if you don’t have a lot of free time or if you’re simply looking to make extra cash during the day: you can always log on to a PC or console and start playing. This is in stark contrast to the handheld market, where playing a game now requires more effort, and frequently, a lot of it.
The Rising Video Game Streaming Market
While it’s always been possible to download games, the rise of gaming streams has enabled gamers to play their favorite games anywhere and anytime. And it’s not just gamers who want to experience games: according to a recent study from Google, 78% of Americans between the ages of 18-29 view video games as one of the most important things in their lives.
This presents a huge opportunity for game publishers, streamers, and content creators, as evidenced by the $14.7 billion in revenue that the video game streaming market will hit in 2021.
With more people than ever wanting to play games, and with the ability to play virtually anywhere with an internet connection, why not consider making money from gaming? It’s a veritable goldmine of opportunity, especially now that the global economy is in a state of flux.
How Video Games Differ From Traditional Sports
Perhaps the biggest hurdle for those entering the world of online gaming is adapting to the fact that it’s no longer just about playing games. While there’s still plenty of room for competitive gaming and social gatherings, online gaming today is often a solitary experience. And that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
In the past, playing games was a way of life that frequently involved lengthy sessions with friends and family. These days, online gaming is typically a standalone activity, and it’s more than possible to complete an entire game in one sitting, alone or with a few other players. This can make the difference between a steady and consistent income or even a huge windfall!
Another key distinction between traditional sports and online gaming is the fact that while sports games have always been a significant portion of the video game market, today, the distinction between PC and console games is blurring. This is due to the fact that not only are more and more consumers playing games on their mobile phones and tablets, but it’s also becoming more common for gamers to play on a PC or console at home, as well.
What’s more, the size of the game world keeps expanding, with more games being made, with more gamers playing them, and with bigger eSports leagues.
The Future Of Online Gaming
It’s not just about playing games today. The industry is undergoing a digital transformation, with eSports, social media, and merchandise being integrated into gameplay, all while mobile games continue to grow in popularity.
This presents exciting opportunities for those looking to play games for money, as well as a unique set of challenges. But by carefully considering how much effort is required and what strategies will be needed to succeed, any gamer can become financially independent, thanks to the growing global video game market and all of its opportunities. The world of online gaming remains vast, and with so much opportunity, it’s a worthwhile endeavor to dive in and see what you can find.