Since 1958’s release of Pong, video games have advanced a lot.

People are spending more time and money on their favorite games. Online gaming and smartphones have seen a huge rise in popularity over the past ten years. Nearly 73% of those aged 4-20 own at least one console. The video gaming industry exploded in the last ten years, with revenues close to $180billion.

New opportunities to make money from games are constantly emerging due to the explosion in people who play them. You can turn your passion for videogames into a profitable side-hustle.

There are many ways to get paid to play games

It is unlikely that anyone will pay you significant amounts of cash to let you play video games all day, as amazing as that would be. They must also have something to gain from it. Gamers can make money in a variety of ways.

• Sign up for offers or consume ads. Advertisers pay to reach relevant buyers, wherever they may be. Your Facebook News Feed and TV. And yes, sponsored ads in your games. You may be paid a percentage of the fees they charge advertisers by some apps. This can add up to a few more dollars each month. Sometimes they will offer a small cash bonus of $0.50 to $10 to encourage you to download an app.
• Earn milestone rewards. Some games reward players with cash or cash equivalents, such as free gift cards, for reaching certain levels and unlocking certain features. The higher the game’s complexity, the more you will receive a reward.
• Win contests. You can win sweepstakes or trivia, as well as free drawings. You can enter tournaments or giveaways to win a part of a prize pool or a grand prize.
• You can play games of chance. Casino-like games that pay real money are legal in many places. There are many ways to win cash prizes, including lotteries and raffles, digital slots, and Blackjack.
• You can play games of skill. There are many franchises that offer millions of dollars in tournament prize pools each year, including Counter-Strike Global Offensive and DOTA 2. League of Legends and Fortnite.
• Gaming is a business. Blogging, streaming, vlogging and sponsorships. Although it is more difficult and takes longer to complete, the earnings ceiling and pay are significantly higher. The most successful earn more than $500,000 per monthly.
• Gaming as an occupation. Game developer, game tester, and gaming journalist. These are just a few of many careers within the gaming industry.

You can still make money from the side, even if you don’t want to be a full-time gamer. You can earn enough money playing free games that make real money to purchase a new or two more games, or to upgrade your equipment.

Apps that Offer Real Money-Earning Games

Although you cannot earn real money with online games, you can still make credits or virtual money by watching ads between levels or completing micro tasks.

These sites are great for anyone who doesn’t want to become a professional gamer, but wants to make some quick cash playing games.

1. InboxDollars

More than a gaming app is, is a market research company that rewards users who share insights about their online and shopping habits.

They are paid by big brands to get feedback from their users about the games they play. InboxDollars gives a portion to its members when they provide feedback on how the game could be improved or when they reach a milestone like reaching certain levels.

InboxDollars offers a variety of arcade games including strategy, card, word, action, and strategy games. A wide range of GSN games are available, including Poker, Casino and Wheel of Fortune. You can also participate in cash tournaments to earn cash back or win cash prizes.

InboxDollars will instantly give you a $5 bonus for opening an account.

2. Mistplay

Mistplay, a loyalty platform for gamers, is available through the Google Play Store for Android devices (there is a waitlist to iOS users).

This app is passive-income . Play the same games as you would on your smartphone, but you’ll earn points which you can use to redeem gift cards to Amazon and iTunes or other video-game outlets like Nintendo and Xbox.

Mistplay games include Super Mario Run, Pokemon Go and Fruit Ninja. Read more about the app in our mistplay review.

3. Swagbucks

Swagbucks offers casual gamers the chance to make real money by playing video games. These games are easy to play, fun and often a lot of entertainment.

Swagbucks new users receive a $10 sign-up bonus.

After you have downloaded the app and verified your email address, you will be able to start earning SB towards gift cards.

• Install a game. You can earn anywhere from 500 to 5000+ SB (0.50 to $50.00), and reach a certain level.
• You can play a game. Play for free to earn SB that you can use towards gift cards.
• Get cashback. If you make in-game purchases, the cashback will be credited to your account.

It is the most lucrative way to unlock certain levels and earn money by installing a game. However, it is important to read all details before you begin. To win the prize, you will need to reach a specific level and within a given timeframe.

Available on: All Devices

4. KashKick

KashKick offers games such as Scrabble GO and Stars Slots. Each reward and offer is different.

KashKick says that I can earn $2.50 if I complete level 16 of Scrabble GO in 7 days. It’s worth it to me to make some money playing a game that I love. Some games have higher stakes. You can earn $20 if you reach level 17 in King Of Avalon within 20 business days of signing up.

You can request PayPal cashout once you have reached $10 in your account. Every two weeks, payments are sent out and processed.

Available on: All Devices

5. Second Life

Second Life, an online virtual world, is very popular. Users can create avatars that interact with people, places and other things just like in real life.

The Linden Dollar, its currency, can be converted to real money. Second Life users can earn money by participating in “hunts”, contests, selling content or objects to other users or finding work. PayPal and Skrill will pay you.

Available on: PC and MAC

Apps that offer casino-like games

You’ll love the thrill of familiar casino games, and you’ll be glad to know that there are many apps that offer cash prizes for those who beat their house or human opponents. You will need to comply with all applicable laws. While certain apps and real-cash games may not be available in your region, you might still be eligible for free play.

6. 21 Blitz

This new digital blackjack game lets you use your card counting skills to make money. It is available on almost every mobile device. This new hybrid solitaire-blackjack offers a casino-like experience but with a twist.

Play for fun or to kill time. If you are ready to level up, enter head-to-head tournaments or multi-player tournaments and earn cash and/or prizes. You’ll get $2 for playing 25 practice games. This is a great gig if your budget is tight and you want to freeroll for a bigger prize.

Download: Android, iOS, Samsung

*Cash tournaments in the following states are prohibited: AZ. AR. CT. DE. IN. LA. ME. MT. SC. SD. and TN.

7. Pool Payday

For cash prizes or free 1-on-1 competition against other players, you can compete in real-time matches. You can redeem cash prizes via Apple Pay, Paypal, or Apple Pay.

Before you can start playing real money, it is important to master the basics of ball positioning, calling pocket, and trick shots. You can participate in tournaments, leagues and head-to-head competitions once you are ready.

Download: Android, iOS, Samsung

*Cash tournaments in the following states are prohibited: AZ. AR. CT. DE. IN. LA. ME. MT. SC. SD. and TN.

8. Solitaire Cube

This is a fun way to play a classic game. You can compete head-to–head or in large tournaments for cash prizes.

Head-to-head play is where players are given the same points and the winner is the player with the most points. The rules for large tournaments are the same except that you can move on to the next player after someone has been eliminated. You can still play for virtual currency even if your region doesn’t offer real prizes. This can be used to redeem for virtual and physical prizes.

Download: Android, iOS, Samsung

*Cash tournaments in the following states are prohibited: AZ. AR. CT. DE. IN. LA. ME. MT. SC. SD. and TN.

There are places that offer cash prizes for games of skill

Spades and Angry Birds are popular apps, but you can also play big-boy console games like Fortnite, COD, and CS: GO. Here’s where to play skill games for cash prizes

9. GamerSaloon

GamerSaloon is an app and website that allows you to find many types of online gaming tournaments, including Halo and Call of Duty, NBA2K20, Madden NFL 20, and more. You can play in a team or individually, and you can also join existing tournaments.

You will need to create an account and make a deposit in order to get started. This money will be used to pay the entrance fee for tournaments. You can then search for tournaments to join. Each tournament listing will include the entry fee, the gaming system required, and the start date.

Each tournament has a cash prize. You can either collect your winnings via PayPal or by sending a check.

10. World Winner

World Champion is a web- and app-based gaming platform that allows you to enter different gaming tournaments and earn cash. Make a deposit and then choose a tournament to play. Once the results are in, you can withdraw your winnings. There are three types of gaming tournaments: Super Plinko, Spades, and Angry Birds.

You can practice before you sign up for a tournament by using the free site. To pay fees, you can only use PayPal. Cashing out winnings is done via the same card. When you use the promo code WELCOME to make your first deposit, World Winner will give you $10 bonus bucks credit

Apps that offer cash prizes

These apps are completely free to use and offer fun ways to win cash prizes, such as trivia contests and giveaways. Although you won’t see much payouts, there are many large prize pools.

11. HQ Trivia

HQ Trivia, despite some difficulties in the past few years, was relaunched in March 2020 by iOS users who love trivia games that earn real money.

You will need to install the app on your iPhone, iPad or other Apple device, and create an account. You can log in every day at a particular time (usually around 9:00 PM EST) to take part in live multiplayer word and trivia tournaments. Every night, the winner receives a cash prize.

Participation is free, but there are restrictions on how much you can win. To deposit your winnings, you will need to create a PayPal account.

Available On: Android, iOS

There are many ways to make money playing games

There are many other ways to make money gaming than the ones listed above.

12. Compete in e-sports

E-sports have exploded in popularity since the late-2000s. Top prizes at major tournaments regularly exceed $1 million. DC Studio | Shutterstock

You might consider e-sports if you are a competitive player in online tournaments or beat your friends in Call of Duty.

E-sports are a multimillion dollar industry in which players compete in organized competitions as either professionals or amateurs. These competitions can be viewed live on the internet and streamed to millions of viewers. E-sports gamers love card games, first-person shooters and fighting games.

The average esports player’s salary is $60,000 and the highest earning has a career worth well over $6,000,000 as at 2020. Some of the highest prizes in e-sports tournaments can be as high as $200,000 in the USA.

Multiplayer competitions offer greater rewards if there are five or six participants. Although not everyone will win big, there is still the possibility of large cash rewards.

13. Start a YouTube channel for gaming or a podcast

It is easy and inexpensive to start a YouTube channel dedicated to gaming. Good equipment and compelling content are essential. It is easy to build an audience by shooting videos on your smartphone and then editing them together.

Your YouTube channel’s content is essential. Engaging content is essential for any strategy, whether you are creating play-through videos of gaming, discussing the pros and cons of different gaming systems, or offering tips and tricks to other gamers. Your fans will move to other channels if you don’t provide engaging content.

Your channel will grow as people expect better content and a professional presentation. Your channel will be noticed by more people, which could lead to more revenue.

14. Create a Twitch gaming channel

Twitch Interactive allows gamers to stream live video games and e-sports competitions. It integrates with consoles such as Xbox 360, Xbox One and Sony PlayStation 3 and 4 and other devices such as Amazon Fire TV or Google Chromecast.

Twitch makes it easy to make money by broadcasting. More views mean more income potential. After you have received at least 500 views per video, you may apply to become a Partner. This is a great opportunity that you can get through the site. Your channel will then earn more revenue from subscribers. Twitch will pay $2.50 per subscriber.

Twitch allows you to request donations for your channel. This gives your viewers the chance to support you directly.

15. Find sponsors

Sponsorships can be a great way for professional gamers to make money, much like how professional athletes make money by partnering up with companies and brands. You might be able secure a lucrative deal depending on your popularity. You’ll only need to wear sponsored gear at tournaments and promote brands to your social media followers.

Even if you do not land big-ticket deals, it is possible to negotiate with smaller brands or newer brands for a lower fee or even free products.

16. Take part in online tournaments

Online poker is a great way to make real money if you are unable to visit a casino or another in-person establishment. You can search Google for “online poker tournaments,” and visit Casino.org to see a list or future tournaments.

You should verify that the site or tournament you are considering playing online is legal and legitimate before making a decision.

17. Make your own products

You can also make money by selling merchandise that is based on your favorite gamers or games, just as people make money from selling fan art and fan fiction books. These could include T-shirts and mugs, mobile phone cases, notebooks or printable brackets for your favorite E-Sports competition.

Teespring and CafePress allow you to create and sell wearable items. Canva allows you to make printables and notebooks that can be used on your Etsy or website. The price you charge will depend on the product you are selling and what platform you use.

If you decide to do this, ensure you comply with all trademarks and copyrights. You don’t want your merchandise to be stopped or sued.

18. Retro games and other gaming equipment can be sold

You might have many old consoles or games around your home or in your closet depending on how long you’ve been playing video games. Selling your old retro games and equipment can help you get rid of them and make extra money.

Decluttr is an excellent place to start selling used games. And eBay is great for selling consoles and other gaming equipment. Local stores can be contacted, and your items can be posted on sites like Facebook Marketplace or a yard sale.

The amount you earn depends on the condition of the game, their age, and how rare or in-demand they are.

Gaming Careers

There are many opportunities for those who want to work in the background of the gaming industry.

19. Start a gaming blog

You can find a lot of gaming bloggers who are successful, but very few gamers are blogging about gaming online.

Blog traffic can generate revenue. You should also write engaging content to attract sponsors and gamers to your site. You can also create a new revenue stream by selling affiliate products in gaming gear or game recommendations. A course or a short ebook can be created with your top gaming tips.

20. Game

You will be paid to test games and provide feedback on certain aspects. Some companies need data and software knowledge, but many want testers to play with beta versions of their products.

Beta testers give feedback on their experiences, including bugs and features that they found. This allows game developers to make changes before the game hits the market.

21. Video game developer

The people behind video games are those who create the game’s graphics and the features. This is a career option for those who love video games and have excellent coding and graphic design skills.

This career doesn’t require a college degree. Online programs can be used to teach you videogame design and coding.

22. Technical support

Technical support is a legitimate job if you are good at solving problems related to video games, such as troubleshooting issues with gaming systems.

This combination of communication and problem solving skills could lead to a career in the gaming industry. You might be able to make a full-time career in technical support by communicating and problem solving.

23. Video game journalist

You might be interested in a job as video game journalist if you are a gamer, e-sports fan, and enjoy writing. You’ll be reporting on video game trends, new games or products, interviewing well-known gamers and providing breaking news about the videogame industry. You may also attend product launches or cover tournaments.

Video game journalists can start by applying for jobs on industry-specific websites, blogs, and magazines. You can also work freelance or create your own blog about video games and build up a portfolio before you look for full-time employment.

A degree in journalism is not necessary to be a videogame journalist.

Be realistic about your expectations

It’s worth looking into online gaming if you are an avid gamer. You can earn real money by playing online games.

Be realistic with your expectations. There is no guarantee that you will make six figures if you aren’t working full-time in online gaming. If you are willing to put in the effort and time to build your skills and network with people, your gaming habits can be a decent way to make some money online.