Many hear video games labeled as time-wasting, unnecessary, or sometimes overly addictive. Yet, multiple studies showcase their benefits, from soft skills to inspiring future careers.
This article explores the potential of gaming, specific titles, and opportunities for learning and earning while having fun.
Games that improve your skills
An article from Harvard Business Review recommends gaming glowingly. It mentions the number of studies showcasing the positive effects of gaming on mental health, soft skills, critical thinking, planning, and decision-making.
While most titles can subconsciously help us grow, we can discuss several options directly related to specific abilities.
- If you have ever yelled at your friend about making no sense with instructions, you’ll recognize Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes. Defusing bombs requires a great deal of effective communication. You need to explain information accurately (and quickly), which can help you in stressful professional settings.
- Many battle royale games improve reaction and ability to adapt and make decisions.
- The many detective or puzzle games improve your problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- Eco is a game with a built-in educational purpose disguised in gameplay we recognize from many survival titles. It raises awareness of environmental issues and teaches players how to be more eco-conscious.
- You can also find many other educational games, such as those focused on teaching programming or languages. Platforms like CodeCombat or Duolingo use gamification to deliver content in an engaging way.
Many learning platforms borrow elements from gaming to give students a more interactive and motivational experience.
How video games help people earn
Of course, you can earn money by becoming a game streamer and showcasing your skills on platforms like Twitch or YouTube. However, gaming has more options, one of which relies on blockchain technology. Achieving some excellent in-game items is no longer just a privilege; you can turn them into money.
Besides this, you can get paid to play games in different forms. One option is to look for opportunities to test games. That could require just regular gameplay, but it might involve running more technical checks if you have QA skills.
Furthermore, you can join different platforms that reward you for playing specific titles. These sites are task-based, meaning you choose the ones you like, and, in this case, you earn money gaming. Payments can arrive through PayPal or be redeemed for collected points as gift cards.
There’s also an increasing demand for content creators, community managers, and esports commentators, all roles born from the gaming ecosystem. With dedication, players can turn their passion into a part-time hustle or even a full-time profession.
With the growth of the creator economy, many gamers also earn income by creating tutorials, walkthroughs, or entertaining content on TikTok and Instagram Reels. Short-form video platforms reward consistent, engaging content, especially from creators who specialize in niche games or provide expert tips. You don’t need to be the best player to build a loyal audience; authenticity and creativity often matter more.
Moreover, game coaching is emerging as a paid opportunity. If you’re highly skilled at titles like League of Legends, Fortnite, or Valorant, you can offer coaching sessions to help beginners improve. Platforms like GamerSensei or Fiverr allow you to list your services and get paid per session.
Inspiration for careers
Gaming is inspirational, and many people who enjoy playing gradually become developers (indie or working in Triple-A companies). So they do not waste time, but prepare for their future careers. Of course, seeing the final product can give false expectations of game development. However, once your interest is piqued, even the complex programming and languages won’t scare the most determined.
Beyond development, the industry needs artists, composers, writers, testers, marketers, and business analysts. A love for gaming can evolve into dozens of different professional roles.
Online game jams, modding communities, and YouTube tutorials are free resources that help beginners build real-world experience before even entering a formal program.
Some universities now offer full degrees in game design, game art, or interactive media. These programs combine storytelling, coding, and art, preparing students for a range of creative and technical careers. Internships at gaming companies also provide early exposure to industry tools and team dynamics.
Even volunteering to moderate online communities or joining Discord servers for indie developers can open doors to networking and job opportunities. Gaming communities often serve as informal stepping stones into professional spaces.
Conclusion
So, next time someone complains about you playing games, remind them of its many benefits. Of course, everything should be done in moderation, so give yourself time away from the screen, too. Lastly, you might not become a developer or start trading NFTs. Yet, you can explore other ways of making gaming more productive, whether by picking games for educational purposes or earning while playing.
