How To Make Money Playing Video Games
Gaming, Finance

How to Make Money Playing Video Games at Home

Are you a passionate gamer dreaming of turning your hobby into a lucrative career? You’re in luck! The booming video game industry offers numerous opportunities for gamers to monetize their skills and enthusiasm.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore four proven methods to make money playing video games, complete with step-by-step instructions, insider tips, and potential earnings.

1. Become a Game Rating Strategist for Netflix

Netflix, the streaming giant, is expanding into the gaming world and needs skilled gamers to shape their content.

This exciting opportunity allows you to play and review games while working for one of the biggest companies in entertainment.

How to Land the Job:

  1. Visit jobs.netflix.com
  2. In the search bar, type “Game Rating Strategist
  3. Filter for remote positions
  4. Carefully review the job description and requirements
  5. Create a standout resume using Canva.com:
    • Choose a professional template
    • Highlight your gaming experience and analytical skills
    • Emphasize your communication abilities
  6. Submit your application through the Netflix careers portal

Key Responsibilities:

  • Play and critically evaluate games
  • Analyze video footage and scripts
  • Provide strategic input on game content and ratings
  • Contribute to Netflix’s gaming strategy

Potential Earnings: Starting salary of $80,000 per year (approximately $38 per hour).

Pro Tip: Don’t be discouraged by the “3 years of experience” requirement.

Netflix values excellent communicators and motivated individuals.

Highlight your passion for gaming and any relevant experience, even if it’s not professional.

2. Become a Video Game Community Manager at Keywords Studios

Keywords Studios is a leading technical and creative services provider for the video game industry.

As a Community Manager, you’ll be at the forefront of player engagement for some of the biggest games in the world.

How to Apply:

  1. Go to keywordsstudios.com
  2. Click on “Careers” at the bottom of the page
  3. Filter jobs by your region (Americas, Europe, or Asia)
  4. Use the search function to look for “Community Manager” positions
  5. Review the job description thoroughly
  6. Prepare a tailored resume and cover letter highlighting your social media and gaming experience
  7. Submit your application through their portal

Key Responsibilities:

  • Manage social media accounts for video game companies
  • Create engaging content for platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Reddit, and Twitch
  • Respond to player comments and foster community engagement
  • Stay up-to-date with game updates and community trends

Potential Earnings: $27 to $43 per hour, based on Glassdoor salary data.

Insider Tip: Familiarize yourself with popular community management tools like Hootsuite, Sprout Social, and Discord.

Mention these in your application to stand out.

3. Test Games with PlaytestCloud

PlaytestCloud connects game developers with players to gather valuable feedback on new and upcoming games.

This platform offers a flexible way to earn money while playing pre-release games.

How to Become a Game Tester:

  1. Visit playtestcloud.com
  2. Click on “Become a Tester
  3. Complete the three-step sign-up process:
    • a. Fill out basic information (age, gaming preferences, devices you own)
    • b. Download their app and complete a qualification test
    • c. Wait for invitations to paid game tests
  4. Once invited, follow the instructions carefully:
    • Download the game
    • Record your gameplay and commentary
    • Provide honest, detailed feedback

Key Requirements:

  • Be articulate and observant
  • Have a reliable internet connection
  • Own a smartphone, tablet, or PC for testing
  • Be able to express your thoughts clearly while playing

Potential Earnings: $9 per 15-minute game test (equivalent to $36 per hour).

Expert Advice: To increase your chances of being selected for tests:

  • Complete your profile thoroughly
  • Be responsive to test invitations
  • Provide high-quality, actionable feedback consistently
  • Diversify your gaming skills across different genres

4. Earn Rewards on InboxDollars

InboxDollars is a popular rewards site that offers multiple ways to earn money, including playing casual games and completing game-related offers.

How to Maximize Your Earnings:

  1. Sign up at inboxdollars.com
  2. Complete your profile to unlock more opportunities
  3. Navigate to the “Games” section:
    • Play casual games like solitaire, sudoku, or word games
    • Aim to play consistently to build up your earnings
  4. Explore the “Offers” tab for higher-paying opportunities:
    • Look for “100% free” game offers
    • Download featured games and reach specified levels
    • Track your progress and payout conditions carefully

Earning Potential:

  • Casual games: Approximately $0.25-$0.30 per minute of gameplay
  • Game offers: $10 to $57 per completed offer

Strategies for Success:

  • Focus on high-paying game offers that don’t require purchases
  • Set daily reminders to play consistently
  • Keep a spreadsheet to track offers, deadlines, and earnings
  • Join the InboxDollars community forums for tips and support
  • Cash out as soon as you reach the minimum threshold to avoid losing earnings

Advanced Tips for Monetizing Your Gaming Passion

How To Make Money Playing Video Games At Home
How To Make Money Playing Video Games At Home

1. Diversify Your Income Streams:

  • Combine multiple methods from this guide
  • Consider starting a gaming YouTube channel or Twitch stream
  • Look into game translation or voice acting opportunities

2. Develop Complementary Skills:

  • Learn basic video editing for better game footage
  • Study game design principles to provide more valuable feedback
  • Improve your writing skills for more effective game reviews

3. Network in the Gaming Industry:

  • Attend gaming conventions and meetups
  • Join online gaming communities and forums
  • Connect with game developers and industry professionals on LinkedIn

4. Stay Informed and Adaptable:

  • Follow gaming news sites and industry blogs
  • Be ready to adapt to new platforms and technologies
  • Continuously upgrade your gaming setup for better performance

5. Build Your Personal Brand:

  • Create a gaming-focused portfolio website
  • Showcase your best reviews, community management work, or testing feedback
  • Use social media to establish yourself as a gaming expert

6. Manage Your Time and Health:

  • Set a schedule to balance gaming work with other responsibilities
  • Take regular breaks to prevent burnout and maintain physical health
  • Invest in ergonomic gaming equipment to prevent repetitive strain injuries

Conclusion:

Making money playing video games is no longer a pipe dream – it’s a viable career path with diverse opportunities.

Whether you’re interested in critical analysis as a Game Rating Strategist, community building as a Community Manager, providing valuable feedback as a Game Tester, or simply enjoying casual games for rewards, there’s a method that can match your skills and interests.

Remember, success in the gaming industry requires more than just playing skills.

Cultivate professionalism, develop your communication abilities, and stay passionate about gaming.

With dedication and the right approach, you can turn your gaming hobby into a rewarding career.

Start your journey today by exploring these opportunities, and don’t be afraid to combine multiple methods to maximize your earning potential.

The world of gaming is vast and ever-evolving – your next big opportunity might be just a play session away!

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