Looking for fun ways to earn real money by playing games? You’re in the right place! There are plenty of online game apps that pay you to play, whether it’s through casual free-to-play games or more competitive pay-to-play cash tournaments. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best apps you can use to start earning.
Earning Money Through Gaming Apps
There are two main types of games: Free-To-Play and Pay-To-Play.
- Free-To-Play games are a great way to practice and sharpen your skills. They usually allow you to play for fun, earning in-game rewards. However, some platforms also offer cash prizes for playing Free-To-Play games.
- Pay-To-Play games (also called cash tournaments) involve paying an entry fee for a chance to win real money prizes. These are typically more competitive, with bigger rewards.
Let’s dive into some of the best gaming apps and platforms where you can win cash and other cool prizes!
1. Skillz-Powered Games
Skillz is a platform that lets you play competitive skill-based games for real money. What’s great about Skillz games is that they match you with other players based on skill level, so it’s all about your gameplay, not luck. You can play for free or enter cash tournaments.
Some popular games on Skillz that pay real money include:
- Blackout Bingo: This is a twist on the classic game of Bingo. The goal is to tap the numbers (daub) faster than your opponents to win cash prizes. You can play for free or enter paid tournaments.
- Solitaire Cube: A fun take on solitaire where you sort and stack cards by suit. The player with the highest score wins money. You can join free tournaments or pay to enter cash ones.
- Bubble Cube 2: This fast-paced game lets you pop bubbles by matching colors to clear the board. You can enter free or paid tournaments, and each match takes just a couple of minutes.
- 21 Blitz: A mix of Blackjack and Solitaire, where you try to score 21 or build stacks of five cards to win. It’s a fast game with quick rewards.
- Dominoes Gold: Challenge other players to a classic domino game where the highest score wins real-world prizes. It’s all skill-based!
Skillz offers multiple payout options, including PayPal, Apple Pay, and checks. You can withdraw your earnings at any time, and there’s no minimum payout required.
2. Papaya Gaming
Papaya Gaming takes popular games and turns them into skill-based money-earning competitions. You can play for free or enter cash tournaments. Some games even give you free bonus funds for cash competitions!
A couple of standout games on Papaya include:
- Bingo Cash: A skill-based Bingo game where you tap numbers to earn points. The faster you go, the more points you rack up. Play for free or enter cash tournaments to win real money.
- Solitaire Cash: Another card game where you’re matched with other players at your skill level. Each tournament gives you a chance to win cash prizes. You can play for free or enter cash tournaments, and the game is ad-free.
Papaya games are available on iOS and Galaxy devices, with PayPal and Apple Pay as payout options.
3. Swagbucks LIVE
If you love trivia, Swagbucks LIVE is a fun way to earn real money. It’s a free multiplayer live trivia game where you can win cash for answering questions correctly. On top of that, you earn Swagbucks points (SB) for playing, which you can redeem for PayPal cash or gift cards.
It’s a great app for trivia lovers who want to earn while having fun. The more you win, the more you can cash out.
4. Other Money-Earning Game Apps
- Mistplay: Available on Android, this app rewards you with points just for playing games. The points can be redeemed for gift cards to places like Amazon, Google Play, and more.
- Lucktastic: This app gives you a chance to win real cash prizes through scratch-off cards. It’s free to play and easy to use, plus you get rewards by entering daily contests.
- InboxDollars: Known for paying you to watch videos and take surveys, InboxDollars also has a gaming section where you can earn cash by playing games.
How to Get Started
- Download the App: Choose the game platform that appeals to you.
- Play for Fun: Start by playing for free to get a feel for the game. You can use these free matches to practice and improve your skills.
- Enter Cash Tournaments: Once you’re comfortable, enter cash tournaments to compete for real money prizes. Most games require you to make a deposit via PayPal or credit card to enter these tournaments.
- Earn and Cash Out: When you win, you can cash out your earnings via PayPal, gift cards, or even checks, depending on the app.
Final Thoughts
Playing games online can be a fun way to earn some extra cash. Whether you’re playing for free or entering cash tournaments, there are plenty of opportunities to make real money by playing your favorite games. Just remember to play responsibly, practice your skills, and you could be on your way to earning some real rewards!
More FAQs for Earning Money by Playing Online Games
How can I start earning money by playing online games?
To start earning money through online gaming, you can explore platforms that offer cash rewards, such as entering tournaments, competing in skill-based games, or streaming your gameplay. Some popular ways to earn include:
- Playing in cash tournaments: Many gaming platforms host tournaments where you can win cash prizes.
- Game streaming: Platforms like Twitch and YouTube allow gamers to earn money through ads, donations, and sponsorships while streaming.
- Testing games: Companies often pay people to test games for bugs and provide feedback.
- Play-to-earn games: These are games where you can earn cryptocurrency or tokens that can be converted into real money.
Are there any specific games that offer real money rewards?
Yes, many games offer opportunities to win real money. Some examples include:
- Skill-based games like pool, chess, and card games, where you can participate in tournaments for cash prizes.
- Play-to-earn blockchain games like Axie Infinity or Decentraland, where you can earn cryptocurrency.
- Fantasy sports platforms such as DraftKings or FanDuel, where you can compete for money by picking teams and entering contests.
- Esports: High-level competitive gaming tournaments often have large cash prizes, though you need advanced skills to participate at this level.
Can you make a consistent income by playing online games?
While it’s possible to make money by playing games, making a consistent income depends on the amount of time, effort, and skill you invest. Professional gamers, streamers, and tournament players can earn significant amounts, but for most people, it might just serve as a fun way to earn some extra cash on the side. It’s important to manage your expectations and realize that not everyone will make a full-time income from gaming alone.
How do I find reputable platforms that pay you to play games?
Look for well-established and trusted platforms that offer cash prizes or other rewards for gaming. Some reputable sites include:
- Skillz: Offers cash competitions for games like Solitaire Cube, 21 Blitz, and others.
- Twitch: Allows gamers to earn money through subscriptions, donations, and sponsorships while streaming.
- Swagbucks Live: An app that lets you earn points by playing trivia games, which can be redeemed for cash or gift cards.
- GamerSaloon: A platform where you can enter paid tournaments for games like Madden or FIFA.
Make sure to read reviews, check ratings, and confirm that the platform has a legitimate payout system before you invest time and money.
Do I need special equipment to start earning money playing games?
The equipment you need will depend on the type of gaming you’re doing. If you’re playing casual games on your phone, a basic smartphone may suffice. However, if you plan on streaming or playing high-end competitive games, you’ll need more advanced equipment:
- A gaming PC or console for high-performance gaming.
- A microphone and camera for streaming if you want to interact with your audience.
- Good internet connection to avoid lag during gameplay and streaming.
Investing in the right equipment can enhance your experience and improve your chances of earning money.
How much can I realistically earn by playing online games?
Your earnings from gaming will vary greatly depending on the game, platform, and your skill level. Some people earn a few dollars a day through smaller tournaments or by streaming, while top-tier players and streamers can earn hundreds or even thousands of dollars per month. If you’re looking to earn a substantial amount, it requires consistent effort, a growing audience (for streaming), or advanced skills to win cash tournaments.
Are there any risks involved in earning money through gaming?
While gaming can be fun and rewarding, there are some risks involved, such as:
- Time commitment: Some games require long hours of play to be profitable, which can interfere with other responsibilities.
- Gambling: Some platforms involve a risk of loss if you’re entering cash-based tournaments. Always understand the risks before you start playing.
- Addiction: Like any activity, excessive gaming can lead to unhealthy habits. Play responsibly and set boundaries.
Make sure to manage your time wisely and set realistic expectations regarding earnings.
What types of games are best for making money?
Games that focus on skill-based play or offer rewards for consistency are typically the best for making money. These include:
- Card games (poker, blackjack) and other competitive games like chess or pool.
- Esports games such as League of Legends, Dota 2, and Fortnite, where tournaments with large cash prizes are held.
- Mobile games with cash prizes or rewards for high-level play.
- Fantasy sports apps like FanDuel and DraftKings, where you build teams and compete for money.
Conclusion
Earning money by playing online games is an exciting opportunity for those who are dedicated, strategic, and skilled. Whether you’re competing in cash tournaments, streaming your gameplay, or participating in play-to-earn games, the key to success is consistency and practice. Remember to approach gaming responsibly, avoid overspending or overcommitting, and make sure you’re using reputable platforms. While not everyone will become a professional gamer or streamer, playing games can be a fun way to earn some extra cash or even turn into a full-time career if you have the right skills and commitment. Keep learning, playing, and improving, and you may find yourself earning real rewards from your favorite games.
