If you like games, you’ll be happy to know that there are several legitimate ways to get paid to test and play games before they are released to the public.
For most people, this won’t replace a full-time income. Opportunities can be sporadic and many companies only need testers when they are preparing to launch a new title or feature. Still, if you already spend time playing games, this can be an enjoyable way to earn some extra money.
How much can you earn by testing games?
The amount you earn depends on the company, the type of game tested, and the length of the test.
Most tests pay between $5 and $15, although some opportunities may pay more depending on the company and the number of reviews required.
Why Companies Pay People to Test Games
Game developers rely on testers to identify bugs, glitches, confusing mechanics, and other issues before launch. They also want to know if a game is enjoyable, easy to understand and works well on different devices.
This feedback helps developers improve their games before they are released to the public.
Can you create income test games full time?
Generally no.
Most companies don’t offer a constant stream of testing opportunities. You may receive several invitations one month and none the next month. For this reason, game testing is generally best viewed as a side hustle rather than a primary source of income.
If you’re interested in other beginner-friendly ways to make money online, you can also check out our guide to rewards siteswhich includes several platforms that occasionally pay users to try new games.
8 Companies That Pay You to Test Games
1 – PlaytestCloud
PlaytestCloud regularly recruits people to test mobile games before release.
The company accepts testers from many countries around the world, although opportunities vary by location.
How much you earn depends on the length of the session and the tasks involved, but the company says many 15-minute playtests that include a follow-up survey pay around $9.
Payments are sent via PayPal, usually within a few days of your test being approved.
Go here to register for the playtest for PlaytestCloud, or read our PlaytestCloud Review First of all.
2 – GBTN
GBTN (Global Beta Testing Network) allows players to test titles before release and provide feedback to developers.
You must be at least 18 years old to participate.
GBTN accepts testers from many countries, although the projects available depend on your location and gaming profile.
Remuneration varies depending on the project. GBTN does not advertise standard pay rates and opportunities are only offered when match tests become available.
Go here to register as a playtester for GBTN.
3 – Ubisoft
Ubisoft frequently recruits participants for its user research and playtesting programs.
You can take part in many tests from the age of 16.
Availability depends on your location. Some opportunities take place remotely, while others require presence at Ubisoft’s testing facilities.
Depending on the project, compensation may include cash payments, free games, merchandise, or other rewards.
Go here to register for the Ubisoft playtest.
4 – Thoroughly! Games
Everything is included! Games maintains a database of testers who can be contacted when new game testing opportunities become available.
Some sessions are held remotely while others are held in person.
You must be at least 18 years old to register and prior game testing experience is not required.
Availability varies by country and by specific testing project.
Go here to register for All In! Games.
5 – Octappush
Octappush recruits testers to try out mobile games before their public release.
The platform accepts testers from several countries and mainly focuses on mobile games.
According to the company, most tests pay between $5 and $10.
Go here to register as a playtester for Octappush.
6 – Beta test
BetaTesting pays users to test websites, apps, software, and sometimes video games before their public release.
The company accepts testers from many countries, although some projects are limited to specific regions or devices.
Pay varies by project, but many tests pay between $10 and $20, with some paying more.
Go here to register for BetaTesting.
7 – Game tester
Game Tester connects players with developers looking for feedback on games before launch.
The platform is available in many countries and offers testing opportunities for PC, mobile and console games.
Remuneration varies. Some tests offer rewards, gift cards or points that can be redeemed, while others offer direct payment.
Go here to join Game Tester.
8 – OF Playtests
Electronic Arts occasionally recruits players to test upcoming games through its playtest program.
Some opportunities are available remotely, while others require presence at EA facilities.
Availability is highly dependent on your location and the specific game being tested.
Compensation varies and may include cash, gift cards, or other rewards depending on the study.
Go here to learn more about EA playtesting.
Bonus: Other Ways to Get Paid to Play Games
If you enjoy mobile gaming, rewards apps may offer more consistent earning opportunities than traditional game testing platforms.
These sites often pay users to install and achieve milestones in sponsored games. Even though incomes are generally modest, opportunities are generally more numerous.
If you use rewards sites frequently, keep an eye out for gaming-related offers, as they can sometimes pay more than surveys and other quick online tasks.
Good luck if you try any of these sites!
Anna Thurman is a work-from-home blogger and mom of two. She has been researching and reviewing remote jobs for over 15 years. His findings are published weekly here on Real Ways to Earn.
