[image:unsplash]

Not long ago, gaming was still considered little more than a hobby. Like with all hobbies, some gamers were more dedicated than others, but it never really extended beyond a personal pastime.

To say things have changed in the past couple of decades would be an understatement. Today, people make careers out of gaming, and there are seemingly endless career paths one can choose. A big reason why there are so many opportunities is that gaming has moved into the mainstream, and as a result, the industry is undergoing explosive growth.

From game development to esports and content creation, there are jobs available for those who are passionate about gaming and willing to develop the right skills. In this article, we look at how gamers can turn their love for gaming into a rewarding career.

Content Creation and Streaming

A lot of people want to get better at the games they play and turn to experts for advice on how to do so. Streaming platforms like YouTube and Twitch have given content creators a way to share their knowledge with those who are ready to learn. A content creator needs to be good at what they do and know the games they play inside and out. They really need to be the best of the best because that’s the only way to build credibility in this competitive field.

Twitch is home to some of the most followed streamers on the internet, and poker has recently become popular among the platform’s audience. The accessibility of online poker has a lot to do with this trend, as it has made the world’s most famous card game more accessible to people around the world. A Twitch channel about poker will likely provide instructions on how players can improve their game. One subject that often stumps new players is how to read an opponent’s hand and the role of identifying a player’s style in being successful. There’s a good chance a Twitch content creator has covered this subject, and if they haven’t, players can ask them about it during a live stream.

If you think you want to be a content creator, ask yourself if you have knowledge or expertise in a certain game that you think others would be interested in. Beyond knowledge, successful content creators know how to keep their followers entertained and engaged. That might mean broadcasting their gameplay and producing game-related videos, tutorials, and reviews. Most content creators earn a living by monetizing their content through ads, subscriptions, sponsorships, and merchandise sales. While streaming is a fun job, it’s important to remember it is also demanding, and there’s an expectation that you’ll constantly be churning out content.

Game Development

If you want to get into game development, you’re going to have to develop a unique set of skills and expertise. There isn’t just one career path in this field; there are several, including game designers, who are responsible for conceptualizing game mechanics, storylines, and the overall player experience. Game designers don’t do it all alone. Instead, they work closely with programmers who bring their ideas to life by turning them into code.

Graphics are a huge part of video games, and artists and animators are the ones who create the visual elements we see in the games we love, including character design and immersive environments, while sound designers and composers make the music that accompanies you on your journey through the games you play. Most jobs in game development require a university degree or some other type of specialized education in computer science, graphic design, or music. You’ll also need a strong portfolio that shows potential employers your creativity and technical skills.

Esports and Competitive Gaming

Almost every serious gamer dreams of making it as a professional, and esports has made that dream a reality for a select few. Esports has gained a huge following and attracts audiences larger than some traditional sports. The world’s best players come together at esports tournaments to compete for prize pools that sometimes reach millions of dollars. Beyond being a gamer, like with traditional sports, there are other jobs available, including support staff, coaching, event organization, and broadcasting.