21 Games That Pay Real Money (2026)

Saving money on games that pay real does not have to be complicated. We rounded up the essentials so you can spend less and skip the guesswork.

Key Takeaways

• 21 Games That Pay Real Money We tested various apps and websites where you can earn real money by playing games.
• This guide includes tips for maximizing your earnings and strategies for turning your gaming sessions into a productive side hustle.
• Written by Ben Huber Last Updated: September 27, 2024 Reviewed by Jana Lynch Home Side Hustles Some of the links on DollarSprout point to pr...

21 Games That Pay Real Money

We tested various apps and websites where you can earn real money by playing games. This guide includes tips for maximizing your earnings and strategies for turning your gaming sessions into a productive side hustle.

Written by Ben Huber Last Updated: September 27, 2024 Reviewed by Jana Lynch

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Video games have come a long way since Pong was released in 1958.

More and more people are spending time and money on their favorite games. Smartphone and online gaming have surged in popularity over the last ten years, with over 53% of American households now reporting that they own at least one game console.[1] As such, it comes as no surprise that the video game industry boomed in 2023, with revenues exceeding $248 billion.[2]

With this explosion of gamers, new opportunities to earn money through games are emerging. From video game blogs to YouTube channels to tech support, you can turn your passion for gaming into a rewarding side hustle.

Ways to Get Paid to Play Games

Whether you’re aiming for side income or a full-time gig, playing real money-earning games can help you make extra cash, upgrade your gear, or fund your next game purchase.

• Consume ads or complete sign-up offers. Some games pay you between $0.50 and $10 to watch ads or install apps, sharing the advertiser’s fees.
• Games of chance. Legal casino-style games, like digital slots or Blackjack, offer cash prizes for lucky winners.
• Earn milestone rewards. Reach certain levels or complete tasks in games to earn cash or gift cards. The more you play, the more you can earn.
• Games of skill. Competitive games like Fortnite or League of Legends host tournaments with prize pools worth millions each year.
• Gaming as a business. Stream, blog, or get sponsorships to turn your hobby into a serious income stream. Top gamers can make over $500,000 a month.[2]
• Gaming careers. Jobs like game testers, developers, or journalists allow you to earn while staying in the gaming industry.

Apps and Games That Pay Real Money

Some platforms let you earn real cash by completing micro tasks like watching ads or playing games casually, offering an enjoyable way to make extra money without the pressure of competition.

  Consume Ads or Complete Sign-Up Offers  

1. Freecash

Freecash.com offers multiple ways to earn money, including game app testing, earning cashback on in-app purchases, and unlocking payouts by reaching specific game levels. During my testing, I earned between $10 and $50 a month, which is typical for moderately active users. On one particularly active month, I pulled in over $100 by completing high-value offers and cashing in on Leaderboard bonuses.

For anyone new to Freecash, the site’s low withdrawal minimum of $0.50 makes cashing out achievable even with smaller earnings. I found it straightforward to redeem my earnings through PayPal, gift cards, and even cryptocurrency, making it one of the more versatile platforms for earning a bit of extra cash in your downtime.

Try Freecash! 2. Swagbucks

Swagbucks offers a simple way to earn extra cash by playing games, completing surveys, and shopping online. I’ve been using Swagbucks for over seven years, and while it’s not a get-rich-quick scheme, it’s reliable for earning some side income each month. One of the nice features is the $10 sign-up bonus, which makes it simple to start earning immediately.

• Install a game: Earn anywhere from 500 to 5000+ SB (roughly $0.50 to $50) by reaching certain levels.
• Play games: Accumulate SB just by playing, which you can redeem for gift cards.
• Get cashback: Receive cashback from in-game purchases if you decide to make them.

I’ve found that installing games and reaching specific milestones is the most lucrative option, but always pay attention to the detail , like the level you need to reach and the time frame. Swagbucks clearly outlines these requirements, making it simple to know what you’re getting into. In my best months, I’ve managed to earn around $20 to $30 from these gaming offers.

Try Swagbucks! 3. InboxDollars

More than just a gaming app, InboxDollars is a market research company that rewards users for sharing insights about their shopping, online, and gaming behavior. Big brands pay InboxDollars to gather feedback on the games users are playing, and in return, members earn cash rewards for completing paid surveys or reaching specific milestones in games.

InboxDollars features a diverse selection of arcade games, including card games, strategy games, word games, and action games. Users can also enter cash tournaments or win prizes through popular titles like Monopoly Go!, Big Cash Bingo, and Solitaire Joy. Plus, you’ll instantly receive a free $5 bonus just for creating an account.

Having used InboxDollars, I found it simple to earn rewards. In my first week, I earned $8 by trying out various features, including playing games and completing surveys.

Try InboxDollars! 5. KashKick

KashKick is a rewards platform where users can earn real cash by completing tasks such as playing games, taking surveys, and signing up for offers. Users can earn approximately $1 to $5 for playing games and completing tasks, depending on the specific activity.

To start, users create a free account on KashKick and can immediately begin exploring the available games. The platform features a variety of casual and competitive games, allowing users to earn points that convert to cash. For instance, playing a game like Bubble Shooter may earn you a specific number of points for each level completed. Additionally, users can accumulate earnings by participating in promotions and daily challenges.

Try KashKick! 6. Rewarded Play

Rewarded Play is an Android-only mobile app that allows users to earn cash and gift cards by playing a variety of games, including puzzles, arcade titles, and casual games. Players earn

Final Thoughts

Before you check out, double-check games that pay real against current offers and any coupons you can stack. Small habits like this add up to real savings over a year.

Originally published at dollarsprout.com.