New genres of gaming are being developed to attract more users and offer them actionable methods to earn money, which makes it easier for them to engage with esports and even blockchain gaming.
Because of shifting digital consumption trends, gaming has evolved to be an activity that many people do for leisure. However, technology has given rise to even more complex forms of entertainment, which allow people to earn money. As a result of the pandemic, people are looking for more ways to earn, and the available infrastructure allows for online gaming on multiple platforms.
As stated in a Newzoo report issued in 2024, the revenue from games is projected to reach $187.7 trillion globally, with online gaming recording the highest increase. In this article, let us discuss the five most popular forms of online games that one can earn from and what one needs to know beforehand.
Play to Earn with Blockchain-Based Games
The various games that fall under this category operate on decentralized networks and tend to award players in cryptocurrency or other resources that hold value within or outside game ecosystems. The traditional job market is not a valid option for millions of workers around the world, but these regions are able to benefit greatly from this global trend.
As reported by Coinlaw.io, the gaming industry on blockchain technology was valued at 4.5 billion in 2023, with more than 2 billion worth pertaining to play-to-earn activities. According to a survey reported by Zipdo, 68% of blockchain gamers play to monetise their gaming experience.
Some of the most notable names are Axie Infinity, The Sandbox, and Gods Unchained. Players in these games can earn, breed, and trade digital assets which have real-world value. However, the cryptocurrency market frequently dictates the economic models underlying these games. For instance, Axie Infinity experienced a dramatic decline in user numbers and asset value in 2022 due to a crypto recession and a severe hack.
Despite the ongoing blockchain bubble, the promise of earning money with every level gained still generates appeal. While it is always advisable to keep an eye on gaming platforms with unorthodox monetisation strategies, extreme volatility of token prices and the fickle nature of the system warrant some discretion.
Competitive Esports Titles Offering Cash Prizes
With the rise in popularity of video games, the esports industry has emerged as a whole new multi-billion-dollar market. Tournaments hosted for Dota 2, Counter-Strike 2, and League of Legends not only have viewer counts in the millions, but they also offer hefty cash prizes to the contestants.
According to data from Esports Charts, Dota 2 esports tournaments gave away 22 million in prize money, while Counter-Strike surpassed 22.6 million in 2024. The inaugural across 23 events in 22 titles Esports World Cup was held in Riyadh during mid-2024 with an astonishing $62.5 million prize pool.
In saying this, entering the world of esports at a competitive tier isn’t as easy. Players are usually required to undergo years’ worth of training, which includes joining amateur leagues, forming semi-pro teams, and hoping for recognition. Sadly, the majority of financial opportunity lies at the apex, leaving a vast majority of competitive gamers unable to achieve sustainable income in their lifetime.
That being said, there are a myriad of new online qualifiers, regional tournaments, and advanced platforms such as FACEIT that offer hope, However, the sad truth remains: esports is an ultra-competitive field that is filled with astounding uncertainty when it comes to finances, especially for most participants.
Casual Mobile Games That Pay Real Money
In the realms of mobile gaming, competitions, and even blockchain gaming, players can find joy in straightforward apps and games that reward users in a direct yet minimal fashion. Rewarding users for time investment, such as playing Skillz, Swagbucks Live, or Mistplay, offers gift cards and cash.
An example is Mistplay, which gives points that can be redeemed for vouchers to Android users for playing games. Skillz powers a number of skill-based games, including puzzles, trivia, and card matches, boasting over one hundred million dollars in prizes awarded within a year.
Often, these platforms require an entry fee for a cash tournament, and the winnings are minimal. The players also have to consider the value of their time against the potential monetary gain. While these games are not primary income sources, they do appear appealing to people seeking to earn modest supplementary income through gaming.
Additionally, some critics have noted problems with payout limits and concealed charges, as well as the benefit of experience on levelled competition, particularly on skill-based applications.
Virtual Economies with In-Game Item Trading
Monetization of the gameplay experience, although not a game in itself, has seen the rise of streaming platforms such as Twitch, YouTube Gaming, and Facebook Gaming. Gamers can monetize through ads, donations, sponsorships, and channel subscriptions.
Twitch had over 7.2 million active streamers each month in 2024. While top streamers earn considerable incomes, even small channels with loyal fans can get reliable subs, too.
This model requires working bang on with a thrilling personality and often an above-average investment in equipment. While it may not be a traditional ‘game to make money,’ it certainly is one of the more dependable earning routes in the online gaming realm.
Regardless of whether you are mesmerized by the speculative trading of blockchain games and the cutthroat world of esports, or prefer a laid-back mobile and item-based games, the idea of making money while gaming has captured interest. However, like any income-generating endeavor, there’s no guarantee. The risks and considerable market competition dictate the reality behind the glamour.
Ultimately, gaming for profit may be achievable, but it is critical to track time spent, thoughts, and conserve expectations.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
