Introduction
Who says you can’t make money online while having fun? In 2025, the gaming industry is booming, and so are the opportunities to earn while playing your favorite games!
The possibilities are endless, from eSports to streaming on Twitch or trading in-game items. Did you know the global gaming industry is projected to exceed $200 billion this year?
With the rise of digital gaming in India, driven by affordable internet (thanks to Jio!) and smartphone penetration, more Indians than ever are exploring how to make money online by playing games.
In this guide, I’ll show you some of the exciting ways to start making money online through gaming, even if you’re just starting.
So let’s start with Us!
Do you know! The online gaming market in India grew by 23% year-on-year (YoY) in FY24, reaching a total revenue of $3.8 billion. This growth is expected to continue and the market could surpass $9.2 billion by FY29, driven by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20%. Reported By Business Standard.
How to Make Money Online by Playing Games in 2025
Gaming isn’t just a hobby anymore; it’s a full-fledged career opportunity with the potential to bring in significant earnings. Whether you’re casually playing on your phone during your daily commute or dedicating hours to perfecting your craft on a gaming console, there are numerous ways to turn this pastime into a source of income.
Why Gaming is Becoming a Lucrative Opportunity in India
The Indian gaming industry is growing at a staggering pace. According to the KPMG report, the online gaming sector in India is projected to reach INR 29,000 crore by 2025.
The demand for entertainment, combined with increasing investments in eSports and gaming platforms, has paved the way for players to make real money from gaming.
From professional tournaments to live streaming, Indian gamers are breaking stereotypes and achieving global recognition.
Top #5 Ways to Make Money Online by Playing Games
1. Live Streaming on YouTube & Twitch
First and foremost, I’ll start with Live streaming, which has become one of the most accessible ways for Indian gamers to earn. By sharing your gameplay live, you can engage with an audience and monetize through ads, subscriptions, and donations.
How to Start:
- Create an account on platforms like Twitch or YouTube Gaming.
- Use tools like OBS Studio or Streamlabs for a professional streaming setup.
- Always connect with your audience to build a loyal fanbase to support.
Example: Mortal (Naman Mathur), one of India’s top gamers, started streaming PUBG Mobile and now earns through YouTube ads, sponsorships, and fan donations.
2. Competing in eSports Tournaments
Taking part in eSports tournaments is one of the most lucrative and thrilling ways to make money while playing games. In India, eSports is experiencing tremendous growth, with tournaments offering prize pools ranging from thousands to several crores.
Key Highlights of the Indian eSports Scene:
- Popular Games: Games like Valorant, BGMI (formerly PUBG), Free Fire, and Call of Duty: Mobile dominate the Indian eSports scene.
- Prize Pools: The prize money in eSports has surged in recent years. For instance, the Free Fire India Championship 2021 had a prize pool of INR 75 lakhs, while BGIS (BGMI India Series) 2022 boasted a whopping prize pool of INR 1 crore.
- Global Presence: Teams like Global Esports and Entity Gaming are representing India in international arenas, further solidifying the country’s reputation as a rising eSports hub.
How to Start Your eSports Career:
- Join a Clan or Team: Being part of an experienced team improves your chances of entering big tournaments. Platforms like Discord are great for networking with fellow gamers.
- Practice Regularly: eSports is highly competitive, so practicing strategies and honing your skills daily is essential.
- Participate in Local Tournaments: Start small with local or regional eSports events to gain experience and recognition before moving to national or international stages.
- Stay Updated on Events: Keep track of upcoming tournaments on platforms like Loco, AFK Gaming, and MPL eSports. Many platforms also offer registration and guidance for beginners.
Top Platforms for eSports Tournaments in India:
- Loco: A live-streaming platform where eSports events and tournaments are regularly featured.
- GamingMonk: A popular portal offering online tournaments for games like FIFA, BGMI, and more.
- ESL India: Known for organizing premium gaming tournaments with substantial prize pools.
With hard work, teamwork, and the right opportunities, Indian gamers can make their mark not only nationally but also globally, while earning a substantial income from playing eSports games tournaments.
Popular eSports Games in India:
- Valorant
- PUBG/BGMI
- Dota 2
- Call of Duty: Mobile
In 2021, India’s Global eSports team brought home $80,000 from international tournaments. As of 2025, prize pools have grown even larger, making this a viable career path for dedicated players.
3. Play-to-Earn (P2E) Games
Blockchain-based games have introduced the concept of earning cryptocurrency or NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) while playing. These assets can then be sold for real money.
Examples:
- Axie Infinity
- Decentraland
- Zed Run (horse racing on blockchain)
Although still niche in India, crypto gaming communities are gaining traction.
4. Testing Games for Developers
Game developers always look for skilled players to test their games before releasing them to the public. This process, often called game beta testing, ensures that the game is bug-free, offers smooth gameplay, and meets user expectations.
How to Become a Game Tester:
- Find Opportunities Online: Look for freelance openings on Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer platforms. Many companies post openings for game testers regularly.
- Specialized Websites: Platforms like PlaytestCloud, BetaTesting, and UserTesting specialize in connecting testers with developers.
- Approach Indian Game Studios: India is home to many gaming companies like Nazara Technologies, MPL, and Dream11. They frequently hire testers for both mobile and console games.
- Showcase Your Skills: Having a basic understanding of game mechanics or an interest in specific game genres can make you a preferred candidate.
Skills Needed:
- Attention to detail for identifying glitches and bugs.
- Good communication skills to provide developers with actionable feedback.
- Experience in playing various game genres to understand common game mechanics.
- Basic reporting skills to document errors, lag issues, and suggestions effectively.
Types of Games Often Tested:
- Casual Mobile Games: Puzzle, hyper-casual, and strategy games dominate the Indian market.
- Console and PC Games: While the market is smaller, opportunities to test high-profile games are rising.
- Blockchain-based Games: With the rise of NFT and crypto-based games, testers are needed to evaluate new gameplay mechanics.
By engaging as a game tester, you not only earn money but also contribute to the development of engaging, polished games. It’s an exciting role that combines passion with financial reward!
5. Selling In-Game Items or Accounts
If you’re good at unlocking rare items or leveling up in games, selling these items/accounts online can be profitable. Marketplaces like PlayerAuctions or Gameflip make it easy to sell.
Best Games for In-Game Trades in India:
- PUBG/BGMI (selling rare skins)
- CS: GO (trading weapon skins)
- Fortnite (selling customized avatars)
Top 5 Gaming Mobile Apps in India (2025)
1. Garena Free Fire Max
Free Fire Max is a hit among casual and competitive players. Its shorter match durations and exciting gameplay make it ideal for quick gaming sessions. It also supports tournaments where players can win real money.
2. Dream11
For fantasy sports lovers, Dream11 remains a top pick. It allows users to create virtual teams and win real money based on actual match performances. Cricket and football enthusiasts, in particular, love this app for its rewarding contests.
3. WinZO
WinZO has a huge variety of games, including puzzles, action, and card games. It’s a great platform for gamers looking to have fun and earn money at the same time. With its user-friendly interface and exciting rewards, it’s a must-try in 2025.
4. MPL (Mobile Premier League)
MPL is a versatile platform with multiple games like chess, rummy, and fantasy cricket. Known for offering real-money prizes, it is one of the most trusted gaming apps in India. MPL frequently hosts exciting tournaments with high cash rewards.
5. BGMI (Battlegrounds Mobile India)
BGMI will continue to dominate the Indian gaming scene in 2025. With its action-packed gameplay, regular updates, and esports tournaments, it offers endless opportunities for players to showcase their skills and even earn money through competitions.
These apps not only provide entertainment but also provide opportunities to make money online by playing games and earning rewards, making them the top gaming platforms in India.
Best Platforms for Gamers to Make Money in India 2025
1. YouTube Gaming
- This platform is ideal for gamers who want to share their expertise through tutorial videos, gameplay streams, or entertainment-focused content. Gamers like “CarryMinati” have leveraged YouTube to reach millions while earning through ad revenue and sponsorships.
2. Twitch
- Globally recognized as the go-to platform for streaming games, Twitch allows Indian gamers to connect with an international audience. Its interactive features like live chat make it ideal for real-time viewer engagement. Successful Twitch streamers often pair their accounts with Patreon for added income streams.
3. LOCO
- Tailored specifically for Indian gamers, LOCO offers a culturally relevant space for gamers to stream, compete, and build a following. With dedicated eSports coverage and unique opportunities to interact with Indian gaming communities, LOCO continues to rise as a preferred platform.
4. Dream11 and MPL
- Catering to sports enthusiasts, these platforms focus on fantasy sports and casual games where players can win cash prizes. Dream11 has become especially popular during IPL seasons, offering daily opportunities to compete and earn real money.
5. GameZop
- Designed for casual gamers, GameZop integrates various games where players can join tournaments or challenges. It’s perfect for quick matches with small yet consistent payouts.
6. Facebook Gaming
- Leveraging the widespread use of Facebook in India, this platform makes it easy for creators to share streams with a vast Indian audience. It’s cross-posting and native streaming options enhance its functionality for gamers building their brand.
These gaming platforms present unique opportunities for gamers with diverse interests and skill levels. Whether you’re starting into hardcore eSports or indulging in casual fantasy games, there’s something for everyone in India’s gaming ecosystem.
Tips for Maximizing Earnings in Gaming
1. Build Your Brand
- Stand out in the gaming world by developing a unique identity. Choose a catchy gaming name, design custom logos, and create consistent content.
2. Invest in the Right Tools
- If you’re streaming or competing in eSports, having the right setup can enhance your performance. Invest in a gaming laptop (like ASUS ROG or Acer Predator), a reliable internet connection, and quality accessories (headphones, webcam, etc.).
3. Be Consistent
- Earnings don’t come overnight. Regularly stream, post, or practice to gain visibility and improve your skills.
4. Collaborate with Other Gamers
- Team up with other streamers or gamers to cross-promote and build a larger audience.
5. Promote Yourself on Social Media
- Use Instagram, Discord, and Twitter to connect with fans and promote your channels or content. Join communities to stay updated on trends.
Challenges Indian Gamers Face
While there are great opportunities, there are also hurdles:
- Time-Intensive Efforts: Earning through gaming takes hours of dedication.
- Market Competition: With more players entering the space, standing out can be difficult.
- Unpredictable Income: Especially for streamers and freelance testers, income can fluctuate.
- Parental and Societal Pressure: Gaming as a career is still stigmatized in many Indian households.
Overcoming these challenges requires perseverance and education—not just for players, but for their families, too.
Success Stories of Indian Gamers
1. Naman Mathur (Soul Mortal):
PUBG/BGMI propelled Naman Mathur into fame. With over 7 million YouTube subscribers, he earns through sponsorships and streaming.
2. Ankit Panth (V3nom):
Ankit is an advocate for eSports and represents Team Brutality in global gaming tournaments.
3. Payal Gaming:
A popular female gamer known for her engaging streams and tutorials. Her success proves gaming isn’t just a male-dominated space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which app pays real money?
Apps like Dream11, MPL, and WinZO are known for paying real money. Make sure to download these from official app stores and check reviews to ensure safety while using them.
Which game is safe to earn money?
Skill-based games like BGMI, Chess.com, and Valorant are safer options since they involve competitions and legitimate tournaments. Always choose games that are backed by official organizations or recognized apps to avoid scams.
Are gaming careers stable in India?
Yes, gaming careers are growing in India with the rise of esports, streaming, and game development. While it’s competitive, with consistent effort and skills, you can build a stable career in gaming. Platforms like YouTube and Twitch also offer great earning opportunities.
Can I earn money from playing games?
Absolutely! You can earn money by streaming your gameplay, participating in tournaments, or creating gaming content. Platforms like YouTube Gaming, Twitch, and even apps like MPL (Mobile Premier League) allow you to monetize your gaming skills.
Which is the no. 1 game to earn money?
Currently, PUBG Mobile (BGMI) and games like Free Fire and Valorant are popular for earning money in India through tournaments, streaming, and sponsorships. These games have a strong player base and plenty of opportunities for skilled players.
Final Conclusion
From my perspective as a content strategist, it’s incredible to witness the gaming industry booming in India. The opportunities to make money online by playing games are boundless. Whether you’re starting into a professional eSports or just starting on your streaming journey, it’s clear that passion and perseverance can pay off handsomely.
I encourage you to explore these paths, experiment with gaming platforms, and never stop leveling up your skills. Remember, success takes time, but with dedication, you’ll make your mark. So gear up, dive in, and start turning your gaming passion into profits today.
Start small, stay consistent, and most importantly, have fun along the way! Ready to dive into this exciting world and turn your passion into profit?
The time to start is now!
I hope you like this article about “How to make money by playing games in 2025. If you have any thoughts or suggestions then please write to us in the comment section below!
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