Gaming beyond boundaries - Opportunities to monetise by gamers

The Indian video gaming sector has witnessed impressive expansion. As per the FICCI-EY report on Indian media and entertainment, it is anticipated that the Indian gaming market will achieve a value of Rs 29,000 crore (approximately $3.8 billion) by the year 2024.

In the ever-evolving landscape of the gaming domain, opportunities for individuals to capitalise on their gaming skills and interests have expanded beyond the traditional roles of esports competitors and content streamers. Although these roles remain significant, various alternative avenues have emerged, enabling gamers to generate income through innovative means.

The practice of ‘modding’, involving the customisation of games, has led to the emergence of a community of creators. Platforms like Steam Workshop facilitate modders in sharing and even selling their creations, thereby enhancing the overall gaming experience. Furthermore, the field of consultancy has opened up. Gamers can provide valuable insights to game developers regarding player preferences and mechanics, thereby contributing to the enhancement of games.

Hamza “Blaze” Hyderabadwala, BGMI Athlete, Gods Reign and Harsh Salunkhe, known as Harsh Khelraay, shed light on the diverse avenues available for gamers to generate income that go beyond the conventional routes.

Hamza asserted, “Apart from being esports players or streamers, gamers can earn money through various ways. They can become game testers, where they are paid to test games before they are released. They can also become game developers or designers, creating their own games and selling them. Some gamers also make money by becoming content creators, channeling their fanbase to Entertainment by making vlogs, tutorials videos, etc.”

Adding to this, Harsh Salunkhe shared a comprehensive perspective on the diverse opportunities within the gaming industry. He said, “There are many different ways for gamers to make money. Firstly, as an esports coach or game analyst, if a gamer excels in a particular game, they can offer coaching services to help others improve their skills. Secondly, organising and managing gaming events and tournaments can be a profitable venture. Thirdly, the realm of game design offers opportunities for creating custom concept art, characters, and environments. Sound designers are equally essential, creating the perfect auditory atmosphere for games. Lastly, one can delve into gaming entrepreneurship, launching merchandise stores, gaming cafes, or even establishing esports organisations.”

When it comes to platforms for monetising gameplay through content creation or streaming, Hamza pointed out, “There are several popular platforms available. Gamers can partner with streaming platforms like YouTube, Twitch, Kick, Facebook Gaming, and more. These platforms offer various avenues to earn money, including ad revenue, donations, sponsorships, and subscriptions.”

Harsh added here, “The list of platforms where gamers can monetise their gameplay is extensive, with names like Rooter, Loco, and Mixer joining the ranks of YouTube and Twitch. As these platforms continue to grow, they become increasingly appealing for gamers seeking to turn their skills into a sustainable source of income.”