I. Introduction
Video games have come a long way since their inception in the 1970s. Originally created to provide simple entertainment, video games have since evolved into complex and immersive experiences that attract innumerable players from all over the world. With the rise of technology and the Internet, video games have become a massive industry, generating revenue in the billions of dollars each year. But did you know that you can make money playing video games too?
A. Explanation of the problem
Many people think that playing video games is just a hobby or a pastime that is devoid of any value. However, with the rise of gaming culture and online communities, video games have become a new platform for making money and achieving financial independence. Despite its huge potential, many gamers are still unaware of the different ways they can monetize their skills and passion for video games.
B. Purpose of the article – Helping audience solve the problem
This article aims to help gamers understand various monetization strategies that can help convert their passion into a profitable venture. We will explore different methods to make money playing video games, such as live streaming, eSports tournaments, game testing, selling accounts/items/merchandise, creating a YouTube channel, and offering game coaching/tutoring services. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of how to monetize your gaming skills and turn this hobby into a source of income.
II. Monetize through live streaming
Live streaming is a popular way of sharing real-time content with an audience, and video game live streaming has become increasingly popular in recent years. Live streaming provides a platform for gamers to showcase their skills and garner a large following. This, in turn, leads to different monetization opportunities, such as donations, subscriptions, and advertisements.
A. Explanation of live streaming and its popularity
Live streaming involves creating and sharing live content with an online audience, which can be accessed through various platforms such as Twitch, Facebook Gaming, and YouTube Gaming. Video game live streaming has become popular because it allows gamers to stream themselves playing games in real-time, providing viewers with an interactive experience that is unique in the gaming community.
B. Platforms for live streaming
There are a variety of platforms for live streaming, the most popular of which is Twitch. Twitch is a platform dedicated to gaming, and it has a massive following. Facebook Gaming and YouTube Gaming are also popular alternatives to Twitch, offering seamless integration with their respective platforms.
C. How to monetize through live streaming
1. Subscriptions
Platforms like Twitch allow viewers to subscribe to their favorite streamers for a monthly fee. Subscriptions can be a consistent source of income for streamers, providing a monthly income stream that allows them to make a living playing video games.
2. Donations
Donations are another way for live streamers to monetize their content. Viewers can donate money to their favorite streamers in exchange for shoutouts, customized emotes, and other perks. Donations can be processed through services like PayPal or directly through the platform streaming services.
3. Ad revenue
Advertisements are another way streamers can monetize their content. Platforms such as Twitch and YouTube offer advertisement revenue to streamers based on ad views. Although this method generally requires a larger following, it can be a significant source of income for those reaching a substantial audience.
III. Participate in eSports tournaments
A. Explanation of eSports
eSports refer to organized video game competitions for players on a professional level. These tournaments feature the latest and most popular video games, such as League of Legends, Dota 2, and Fortnite. eSports has become a multimillion-dollar industry, with prize pools reaching tens of millions of dollars for a single event.
B. Benefits of participating in tournaments
1. Earning money
The most direct benefit of participating in eSports tournaments is the opportunity to win money. Tournaments will typically offer a large prize pool for participants, which can be distributed among the winners. The amount of money that can be won is often substantial with some competitions offering life-changing amounts.
2. Sponsorship opportunities
Successful participation in eSports tournaments can lead to sponsorship offers from different brands to gamers. Sponsorship is a significant source of income for professional gamers, providing them with a steady stream of income without necessarily having to win tournaments.
C. How to participate in tournaments
The process for registering for a tournament will differ based on the specific tournament and the video game in question. Typically, registration will be on the tournament website and will involve filling out basic information and verifying your account information. From there, it will be a matter of following the tournament schedule and keeping track of results to try to make it to the top of the rankings.
IV. Game Testing
A. Explanation of game testing
Game testing is an essential part of the game development process. Testing involves playing a game before its release to identify and troubleshoot any issues and make the game better. Game testing is also an opportunity to earn money by providing feedback on a game and helping improve its overall quality.
B. Importance of game testing
Game testing is crucial in ensuring that video games are enjoyable, engaging, and bug-free before their release. By reporting bugs and issues, game testers help developers create a better product by providing valuable feedback. Game testers are an important part of the overall gaming industry, contributing to the success of new games every year.
C. How to become a game tester
1. Finding game testing jobs
Game testing jobs can be found on websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn. These websites post job openings from game developers or publishers looking to hire game testers. Apply for game testing jobs regularly to keep the opportunities open.
2. Skillset and experience required
Although no specific credentials are required to become a game tester, possessing some technical knowledge or experience in game development or design can be an advantage. Most importantly, game testers must have excellent attention to detail, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities.
3. Types of game testing jobs
Game testing jobs can be divided into two categories. Quality assurance game testers are responsible for ensuring that the game runs smoothly, bug testing, and consistency checks. On the other hand, user experience testers will be responsible for testing the game’s overall gameplay, story and how users feel when using it.
V. Sell accounts or in-game items
A. Explanation of selling accounts and in-game items
Selling accounts or in-game items can be a great way to make some extra cash. Many games allow players to earn, collect, and trade virtual items or currency in exchange for real money. This can act as an investment and once enough virtual funds are obtained, the accounts can be sold to other players who are looking for a head start, struggling to collect the items in the game themselves or complete the game successfully.
B. Factors affecting the price of accounts/in-game items
The price of accounts or in-game items will be affected by different factors, such as the rarity of the item, the popularity of the game, the platform the game is played on, or the level of the game profile, among others
C. How to sell accounts/in-game items
1. Where to sell
There are different websites and platforms where players can sell accounts and in-game items. Websites such as PlayerAuctions, eBid, and eBay are popular among gamers. In some cases, there are dedicated marketplaces within each game, such as Steam Community Marketplace or Dota 2’s Steam market.
2. How to price
Pricing accounts and in-game items can be challenging as their value will depend on various factors. However, pricing can be based on a few key factors such as rarity, age of the game, popularity of the game, and demand for the item among other things. Look at the prices of other sellers to ensure the price you have set is competitive.
3. Best practices for selling
A good starting point for selling is to make sure you have a good reputation on a website so that others can rely on you. Take the time to communicate with buyers in a friendly and professional manner. Ensure the payment gateway is secure before selling the account or in-game item. Do not share your personal information with buyers and always secure your game account with two-factor authentication to prevent hacking attempts.
VI. Sell game-related merchandise
A. Explanation of selling game-related merchandise
Video games have built up their own unique brands, characters, and cultures around them. Fans of games are always looking for merchandise to accompany their interests beyond the game itself. This is an opportunity to make money by selling game-related merchandise like T-shirts, mugs, shoes, mouse pads, and other novelty items.
B. Types of merchandise that can be sold
The products and items that can be sold depending on the popularity of the game or brand in question.
C. How to create and sell merchandise
1. Designing merchandise
There are different ways to design merchandise. Popular options include creating original graphics or art based on the game and characters. Use licensed games by the developer to avoid copyright infringements.
2. Manufacturing and shipping
Manufacturing and shipping can be done by partnering with third-party developers to make distributing merchandise much more manageable.
3. Creating a website or online store
Create an online store for selling the product. Use a content management system (CMS) or partner with an e-commerce website builder like Shopify or Squarespace.
VII. Create a YouTube channel
A. Explanation of YouTube channels
YouTube channels are an excellent platform to share video content with a large audience. Gamers use YouTube to create content showing their gameplay, walkthroughs, reviews, and tutorials. Channels can be used to generate ad revenue and sponsorship opportunities.
B. Benefits of having a YouTube channel
Having a YouTube channel provides an opportunity to generate revenue, amass a following and build a personal brand. Channels can also increase visibility and marketing opportunities.
C. Types of videos to create for earning ad revenue
1. Gameplay videos
Gameplay videos are the primary content creators of game-related channels. Create and publish videos that show gameplay, using narration or audio commentary to provide context and insight into the game.
2. Walkthroughs and tutorials
Walkthroughs and tutorials explain the intricacies of games to a wider audience. They provide guides on how to complete the game or how to beat particular sections of the game. Tutorials can also be general gaming tips.
3. Review videos
Review videos provide a summary of existing games or upcoming games. It’s a chance to share opinions and suggestions on the game.
VIII. Game coaching or tutoring
A. Explanation of game coaching/tutoring
Game coaching or tutoring is teaching someone else how to play a game by coaching someone through a game. Coaching and tutoring services can be offered in two ways, group coaching (training several gamers at once) or personal coaching (one-on-one sessions).
B. Benefits of coaching/tutoring
Coaching and tutoring can help pass on gaming skills and knowledge to others. Coaching and tutoring services can help players enjoy the game and offer a new revenue stream.
C. How to become a coach/tutor
1. Building a portfolio
Applying for coaching or tutoring jobs will require creating a portfolio that details the gamer’s abilities and reputation. Creating content, establishing a following on a streaming platform or creating instructional content can help build a portfolio.
2. Finding clients
Organize coaching or tutoring services through websites or social media pages. Promote through word of mouth or advertise on gaming forums and in-game communities.
