Three Ways to Make Money with Video Games

Video games are many things to many people. Some play them for fun and relaxation, others use them as a social outlet, and still others play motion-based games for exercise. But what if it was possible to turn a love of video games into some money? Is there a way it can be done? The answer is yes, but it is no easy task. Here are three ways to turn a passion for video games into some extra cash.

Purchasing Collectable Games

The vast majority of video games get resold at or below the prices that were paid for them. A small number, however, earn the distinction of being desired by collectors and actually command prices higher than they originally sold for. While not every game will fetch the many thousands that a copy of Stadium Events for the NES does, some games can add a little to one's wallet. The key is knowing which games will be both rare and desirable. A reasonable formula to follow is this: check out review sites and look at the top 25 or 50 games for a given system. Next, check sales figures for those games to find out which of those top games sold the poorest. Remember, though, that this is always a gamble and is not a quick way to make money. It can take many years for a game to become valuable.

Playing Games to Get Rare Items

This is a time-consuming way to make money off of video games. It involves playing an online game, such as World of Warcraft, and grinding and questing until a rare item is found. Rare items from some games sell for hundreds of dollars on eBay, but unless profound luck intervenes, it will take a lot of time and patience to come across one. Also, if a game is played long enough to build up a character with very high level stats and abilities, these can also be sold online for profit. Consider this option if you are a hardcore gamer that thrives on lengthy gaming sessions.

Becoming a Professional Gamer

For those who are blessed with near god-like coordination and skill, this is perhaps the ultimate way to make money off of video games. It requires the necessary inherent talents, the ability to play 8 to 12 hours a day, and a killer computer or game system. Many games let players check their scores against fellow players via leader boards or scoreboards of some type. Consider this option if you consistently rank in the top 10 or 20 on the games you play. If you are this good, there are often tournaments that can be entered with cash prizes. This takes a lot of dedication and a fierce competitive drive to be profitable.

So it is possible to make money from video games, but it takes patience, skill, and a little luck. It's a good idea not to quit the day job to start a career in video games unless you're very sure you can make it work.