30 Gaming Business Ideas You Can Start (2024)
Looking to start a gaming business but not quite sure what to start?
Data shows that more people in the US play games than ever before. Therefore, starting your own gaming business today will pay huge dividends in the future.
The good news is there are so many opportunities to become an entrepreneur and build an innovative video game small business.
If you are looking to start your own business for gamers, we put a list of the most profitable gaming business ideas you can start today!
Here they are:
1. Start a retro gaming business
2. Create a card game
If you love card games and have dreamed of starting your own business, why not consider starting a card game business? This can be a great way to bring people together and create a fun, social atmosphere while also making a profit.
To get started, you’ll need to decide what type of card game you want to focus on. Do you want to offer a variety of games like poker, blackjack, and baccarat, or do you want to specialize in a specific game like bridge or magic gathering? Once you’ve decided on the type of card game you want to offer, you’ll need to find a location to host your business. This could be a physical storefront or even an online platform.
Next, you’ll need to consider what types of services you want to offer. Some options could include hosting card game tournaments, offering lessons or classes for people interested in learning how to play or even selling card game supplies like decks, chips, and other accessories.
You'll need to advertise your business and create a strong online presence to attract customers. This could include creating a website, promoting your business on social media, and reaching out to local card game communities to spread the word about your business.
Overall, starting a card game business can be a rewarding and exciting venture. It allows you to share your love of card games with others while also building a successful business. You can turn your passion for card games into a thriving business with the right planning and dedication.
How much you can make: $500 — $400,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 25 days (?)
Designer-turned-developer creates Online Solitaire, an online gaming website that features popular solitaire games such as Klondike, Spider, and Freecell, earning about $1,500 each month from SEO and optimization tools like Moz and Firebase.
3. Start a gaming marketplace
A dynamic gaming marketplace could be your next big business venture. At its core, this idea revolves around creating a platform where gamers can buy, sell, and trade virtual goods, rare items, and even entire game accounts.
It’s more than just an ecommerce site; it’s a community-driven hub for gaming enthusiasts. The demand for rare in-game items is high, and many are willing to pay a premium for that elusive weapon or avatar skin.
Getting started involves building a secure, user-friendly platform. You’ll need to ensure seamless transactions and possibly incorporate features like a rating system for sellers. Marketing efforts should target both casual gamers and hardcore aficionados through social media and gaming forums.
With the rise in the gaming industry's market value, this idea has ample potential for growth and profitability. It’s a business that marries passion and profit, making it an enticing opportunity for savvy entrepreneurs.
How much you can make: $1,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 14 days (?)
Overgear, a gaming marketplace offering assistance and training in WoW, Path of Exile, Destiny, Call of Duty, and Valorant, saw over $8 million in revenue and a 6x increase in clients in the past year by prioritizing user experience and customer retention through SEO and Google Ads, reinvesting profits, and creating a user-friendly product, amongst other things.
4. Create a coding tool for game developers
Crafting a coding tool for game developers could reshape the gaming industry. This business involves creating a software solution that simplifies and enhances the coding process for game designers and developers.
Your tool could offer game-specific libraries, debugging aids, and real-time collaboration features. Imagine your product becoming a staple in game studios large and small, helping them develop games more efficiently and creatively.
The work involves understanding the needs of game developers, coding a reliable and powerful tool, and constant iteration based on user feedback. There's a significant market for specialized development tools, especially in the ever-evolving gaming sector.
Starting this business not only positions you in a high-growth industry but also directly influences the creation of games enjoyed by millions. It’s a technical challenge with the potential for substantial impact and reward.
How much you can make: $100,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Construct 3, a browser-based game engine that allows anyone to create games without coding, has grown from a pay-once model to generating $100k per month in revenue through a subscription-based system, after launching with the help of early-adopter customers and a focus on organic growth, customer feedback, and white-hat SEO.
5. Create an online simulation game
An online simulation game business involves creating and managing virtual games that mimic real-life situations or scenarios.
These games can range from running a virtual farm to managing a city or even simulating professional activities like flying an airplane.
To start this business, you'll need basic computer skills, creativity, and a passion for gaming.
You can use free or low-cost game development platforms to create your simulations, and once they’re ready, you can sell or offer them online for a profit.
This low-cost venture taps into the growing demand for engaging virtual experiences, making it a potentially lucrative option for budding entrepreneurs.
How much you can make: $200 — $500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $100 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Australian startup founder Igor built a virtual golf empire selling affordable golf simulators for personal and commercial use, leading to the growth of his e-commerce platform and establishment of an event hire business, all through the power of online networking.
6. Start a video games franchise
Imagine tapping into the booming gaming industry by launching a video games franchise. In simple terms, this business allows you to operate one or more outlets of a well-known video game company, providing customers with the latest releases, gaming accessories, and a dedicated gaming space.
A video game franchise offers the appeal of a structured business model backed by the credibility of an established brand. With this venture, you'll not only attract gaming enthusiasts but also create a community hub for tournaments and gaming events. This business is particularly attractive if you enjoy staying ahead of gaming trends and connecting with a passionate customer base.
Building a successful video game franchise will require initial investment, a strategic location, and regular engagement with the gaming community. If the idea of immersing yourself in the gaming world while running a profitable business sounds exciting, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
How much you can make: $1,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 8 days (?)
Chibi Dinos NFT, a play-to-earn NFT community co-founded by 25-year-old Sean Kelly, earned $2.4M in revenue during its initial sale, reinvesting 60% of its earnings into staffing and marketing while earning $2,005.0453th in secondary sales on OpenSea, thanks to tapping into Twitter users as part of its marketing strategy.
7. Start a video game tv/radio talk show
Ever thought about turning your passion for video games into a thriving business? A video game TV/radio talk show might be your calling. This idea revolves around creating a platform to discuss, review, and explore the latest in the gaming world, catering to a dedicated audience of gamers and industry enthusiasts.
Your show could cover everything from game reviews, developer interviews, and industry news, to fan theories and competitive gaming highlights. It offers a delightful mix of entertainment and information that keeps your audience engaged and coming back for more.
The real beauty of this concept lies in its flexibility. You can start small, perhaps as a podcast or YouTube channel, and expand as your audience grows. To build credibility, consistent quality content and engaging guest appearances are key. If you’re passionate about gaming and have a knack for engaging storytelling, this could be an exciting venture to explore.
How much you can make: $25,000/month
Barry and Jason Games & Entertainment created Game Night in a Can, a party game made up of 30 different creative challenges and games of skill, which raised over $20,000 on Kickstarter, and is now sold in Barnes & Noble and independent stores across the US.
8. Start a coding competition for game developers
How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)
9. Create a game marketing website
Are you passionate about video games and marketing? Consider starting a game marketing website. This business idea involves creating a platform that caters specifically to promoting video games, whether indie or mainstream.
Your task will be to attract game developers who need help getting their games noticed. You can offer services like game reviews, promotional articles, video content, and social media marketing strategies targeted to gamers. Excellent SEO skills will be critical to ensure your website ranks high in search results.
Imagine building a hub for game lovers to discover new releases while connecting with developers eager for exposure. It will take dedication to consistently produce engaging content and manage relationships with developers, but the payoff could be becoming a go-to source for game marketing.
If you’re intrigued by the intersection of gaming and marketing, this might be the perfect venture for you to dive into.
How much you can make: $10,000 — $773,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
This case study follows a successful online casino website generating $500k/month in revenue and holding the world's #3 position in its segment, sharing the story of its founders' journey from starting out with SEO strategies, to redesigning their website, and diversifying their business with new products and brands.
10. Develop a gamified learning platform
Imagine transforming education with gamified learning. A gamified learning platform takes traditional educational content and introduces game mechanics to make learning interactive and engaging.
Picture students earning points, leveling up, or competing on leaderboards while mastering academic concepts. This platform leverages the power of games to boost motivation and enhance retention, making study sessions feel less like a chore and more like a fun challenge.
Developing a gamified learning platform involves collaborating with educators to design curriculum-aligned games, working with developers to create the software, and continuously updating the content and mechanics based on user feedback.
Starting this venture means combining a passion for education with an understanding of game design principles, positioning you at the cutting edge of the edtech industry. If you're driven to reshape how we learn and retain information, a gamified learning platform might just be the business idea for you.
How much you can make: $40,000 — $666,667/month
How long does it take to build: 82 days (?)
Games for Business created a game-based learning platform for multinational organizations that doubled its revenue in the first three years and was recently acquired after landing deals on three continents.
11. Start a board game business
Creating your own board game can be fun, challenging, and rewarding. Games are an integral part of our culture and are played by people from all walks of life.
You can create a board game from scratch with basic programming knowledge or several hours of practice. Board games are easy to manufacture, can be made from home, and can become top-rated and profitable businesses.
How much you can make: $1,500 — $250,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $300 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 10 hours/week
Facade Games has raised over $1 million on Kickstarter and sold about 80,000 copies of their board games around the world, with the goal to publish one new game a year on Kickstarter and build on their line of games in books as well as a new party game line in the near future.
12. Start a video game modding business
Ever thought of turning your passion for gaming into a business? Consider starting a video game modding business. In simple terms, modding involves altering or adding to video games to create new game features, characters, or missions.
Setting up this business means you’ll create customized content that enhances gameplay, making games more enjoyable and tailored to players' preferences. This isn't just for tech enthusiasts—gamers across the board are always on the lookout for new mods. By learning essential skills in programming and graphic design, you can develop mods that captivate a broad audience.
The allure of this business lies in its flexibility and creative potential. You can work from anywhere and at your own pace, offering your services on platforms like Steam and Nexus Mods. If you're a gamer with a knack for innovation, this could be a fulfilling way to turn your hobby into a profitable venture.
How much you can make: $85,000 — $230,000/month
Founder Kyle Capel started Hand Held Legend, a DIY upgrade shop for vintage handheld consoles, which generates an average revenue of $27,000 a month and grew 30% in Q1 of 2020, offering an array of modern LCD upgrades for various consoles and serving an audience of mostly male customers aged between 13 and 45, 40% of which are international.
13. Start a game publishing business
The world of gaming is booming, and stepping into a game publishing business could be your ticket to a slice of this lucrative industry.
In simple terms, game publishing involves helping game developers bring their creations to market. This role encompasses providing financial support, marketing muscle, and logistical know-how to ensure games reach a wide audience effectively.
This business idea is intriguing because you get to be at the forefront of the gaming industry without needing to develop the games yourself. You’ll work closely with creative minds, manage marketing campaigns, and coordinate launch strategies.
Starting a game publishing business requires diligence—developing relationships with developers, understanding market trends, and carefully planning releases. However, for those with a passion for the gaming world and a knack for business, it’s a venture rich with potential and reward.
How much you can make: $1,250/month
How much does it cost to start: $4,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Aspiring founders looking to start a profitable business can learn from the story of how Hassan founded UltraShock Gaming, an indie game marketing firm, built up an audience of over 500,000 gamers, and generated $15k in annual revenue (with $12k profit) in just 2 years by offering marketing and advertising services for indie game developers.
14. Become a gaming content provider
Looking to turn your passion for gaming into a business? Consider becoming a gaming content provider. This entails creating and distributing engaging content—be it video game reviews, live streams, walkthroughs, or tutorials.
To get started, establish a strong online presence on platforms like YouTube, Twitch, or social media. Invest time into understanding the gaming community and consistently produce high-quality content. As your audience grows, monetize your efforts through ad revenue, sponsorships, or even offer premium content.
While the work involves a significant amount of planning, recording, editing, and marketing, the impact and potential earnings can be rewarding. The gaming industry shows no signs of slowing down, and your unique voice could carve out a valuable niche. Embark on this venture if you have a genuine love for gaming and are willing to put in the effort to build a dedicated audience.
How much you can make: $200 — $300/month
How much does it cost to start: $100 (?)
How long does it take to build: 242 days (?)
Monster MMORPG is a browser-based creature hunting game generating $200 per month from ads and Patreon support, started as a fan-made project in 2009, and developed by a single owner and developer.
15. Start a game development business
Ever imagined creating immersive worlds and engaging stories? Starting a game development business could be your ticket.
Game development involves designing, creating, and selling video games. From coding and animation to storytelling and marketing, it’s a comprehensive venture that turns creative ideas into interactive entertainment.
Demand for video games is ever-growing. With passion and the right skills, you could transform a single idea into a product that captures the imaginations of players worldwide.
Embark on this journey of creativity and technology, where your dream game can become a reality enjoyed by millions.
How much you can make: $300 — $1,725,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,700 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
How one founder turned a successful Kickstarter campaign into a $40 million tabletop game company with a focus on crafting a few special products each year and using social media to build community and relationships with customers.
16. Start a gaming blog
Starting your gaming blog enables you to make money and have a successful career in the gaming industry. You do not have to be a gamer to earn money through a gaming blog. You can start a blog and hire experienced gamers to write reviews of their favorite games at a fee.
How much you can make: $1,000,000/month
Overgear, a gaming marketplace offering assistance and training in WoW, Path of Exile, Destiny, Call of Duty, and Valorant, saw over $8 million in revenue and a 6x increase in clients in the past year by prioritizing user experience and customer retention through SEO and Google Ads, reinvesting profits, and creating a user-friendly product, amongst other things.
17. Start an amusement arcade
18. Start a game testing business
19. Become a game animation designer
Game animation design isn't merely art; it's bringing virtual worlds to life. As a game animation designer, you’ll be responsible for animating characters, environments, and effects for video games. Through a blend of creativity and technical skill, you'll transform static images into dynamic, engaging experiences.
What makes this an enticing career choice is the sheer demand for immersive animations within the booming gaming industry. Game developers are always on the lookout for talented animators who can make characters move fluidly and environments feel alive.
Starting in this field requires a strong portfolio, proficiency in tools like Blender or Maya, and a deep understanding of storytelling through movement. It’s a demanding yet rewarding career, offering the satisfaction of seeing your creations interactively enjoyed by players worldwide. For those passionate about animation and gaming, becoming a game animation designer can be a fulfilling path that merges artistry with technology.
How much you can make: $25,000 — $330,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 257 days (?)
An Indian video game development company, Zatun, founded in 2007, has collaborated on over 200 game titles with 300 clients, winning numerous awards and rave reviews globally and generating a monthly revenue of $25k, by focusing on innovation, experience, and customer retention.
20. Start a video game parlor
A video game parlor is a business that provides a space for people to play video games, either on a console or computer. The business typically charges customers an hourly or daily fee to access the gaming systems and may also offer food and drinks for purchase.
To run a successful video game parlor, it is essential to have various games available for customers. This can include the latest and most popular games and older classic titles. Keeping the gaming systems and equipment well-maintained and in good working order is also essential.
Another critical aspect of running a successful video game parlor is creating a welcoming and enjoyable customer atmosphere. This can include comfortable seating, clean and well-lit facilities, and friendly and helpful staff. It is also essential to have strict rules for behavior and enforce them to ensure a positive experience for all customers.
Finally, it is crucial to have a strong marketing and advertising strategy to attract and retain customers. This can include social media campaigns, advertising in local publications, and hosting events or tournaments.
Overall, a video game parlor can be a fun and lucrative business opportunity for entrepreneurs passionate about gaming and creating a positive customer environment.
21. Start a vr gaming business
Virtual reality (VR) gaming is no longer a concept reserved for the future—it's an engaging business opportunity for today. In simple terms, a VR gaming business involves creating immersive gaming experiences using VR technology, capturing the imagination of a growing audience of tech enthusiasts and gamers alike.
Picture transforming a basic game room into a cutting-edge VR arena where players can feel like they're inside their favorite games. This business leverages VR headsets and sophisticated motion tracking to offer customers an unforgettable gaming experience. You'll need to invest in high-quality VR equipment, find a suitable location, and develop a marketing strategy to attract customers.
The allure of VR gaming lies in its novelty and the high level of engagement it offers. By starting a VR gaming business, you tap into a market that craves innovative, interactive entertainment. With careful planning and execution, you can establish a popular destination for both casual gamers and hardcore enthusiasts.
How much you can make: $200 — $300,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)
An Indian video game development company, Zatun, founded in 2007, has collaborated on over 200 game titles with 300 clients, winning numerous awards and rave reviews globally and generating a monthly revenue of $25k, by focusing on innovation, experience, and customer retention.
22. Become a video game seller
How much you can make: $85,000/month
Discover how an aspiring founder turned a $30,000 investment into a profitable digital game distribution platform with an annual turnover of 3 million euros, leveraging key partnerships and innovative marketing strategies to attract 50,000 monthly users.
23. Become a gaming app developer
24. Start a video game reality show
25. Start a gaming accessories store
Gaming is more than just a pastime; it's a culture and a community. A gaming accessories store taps into this passion by providing enthusiasts with the peripherals they need to enhance their experience.
From high-quality headsets and ergonomic chairs to customizable controllers and VR equipment, your store becomes the epicenter where gamers find their desired gear. By focusing on both popular brands and unique, niche items, you attract a wide range of customers—from casual players to hardcore gamers.
Starting this business involves sourcing accessories from reliable suppliers, setting up an enticing retail space or online shop, and engaging with the gaming community. Marketing through social media and collaborating with gaming influencers can drive traffic and build loyalty.
If you’re passionate about gaming and have a knack for spotting high-demand products, a gaming accessories store offers a compelling way to turn your hobby into a thriving business.
How much you can make: $200 — $12,000/month
How long does it take to build: 310 days (?)
Founder Sunil Aggarwal started VecRas in 2007, a digital design company that provides Vinyl Ready Vector cut file templates for skins and Smart PSD mockups for mobile devices, which initially did $1,000 per month and now expects $20,000 - $30,000 per month with customers growing nationwide.
26. Create a gaming tutorial
Struggling to level up in your favorite video game? That’s where a gaming tutorial business comes in. This venture focuses on providing step-by-step guides and personalized coaching to help gamers improve their skills.
Start by identifying popular games and studying their mechanics, strategies, and player behaviors. Create content such as video tutorials, written guides, and live coaching sessions. Platforms like Twitch and YouTube can serve as your primary marketing channels.
Consider this: millions of people play games, but only a fraction truly excel. With a bit of expertise and effective communication, you can tap into this lucrative market. By helping others navigate through game challenges and achieve their gaming goals, you're not only building a business but also fostering a community of passionate players.
If you have a knack for games and enjoy helping others, a gaming tutorial business might be the ideal pursuit for you.
How much you can make: $200/month
How much does it cost to start: $100 (?)
How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)
Monster MMORPG is a browser-based creature hunting game generating $200 per month from ads and Patreon support, started as a fan-made project in 2009, and developed by a single owner and developer.
27. Start a video games center
How much you can make: $200/month
Monster MMORPG is a browser-based creature hunting game generating $200 per month from ads and Patreon support, started as a fan-made project in 2009, and developed by a single owner and developer.
28. Start a gaming gadgets rental business
29. Become a professional gamer
Are you passionate about gaming and want to turn your hobby into a business? Consider starting a professional gamer business! Professional gaming, also known as esports, involves competing in video game tournaments and earning prize money. The esports industry is rapidly growing, with revenues projected to reach $1.5 billion by 2020, according to Newzoo.
To start a professional gamer business, you’ll need a vital skill set in a popular game or genre. You’ll also need to invest in high-quality gaming equipment, such as a gaming computer and headset. In addition, you’ll need to practice consistently and stay up-to-date on the latest strategies and techniques in your game of choice. To successfully run a professional gamer business, it’s essential to have good communication and teamwork skills, as you’ll likely be playing on a team with other gamers. You’ll also need to handle the pressure of competition and maintain a positive attitude.
One way to grow your professional gamer business is by streaming your gameplay on platforms like Twitch or YouTube. This allows you to build a following and potentially monetize your content through sponsorships and advertisements.
Starting a professional gamer business can be a rewarding and lucrative venture for those who are dedicated and skilled in esports. With the right approach and dedication, you can turn your love of gaming into a successful business.
Time commitment per week: Min. 2 hours/week
Subscrible is a game catalog app offering ad-free gaming experiences to over 15,000 users, reducing user acquisition costs for game developers by 90% and attracting former Playrix and DevGamm employees to grow partnerships, all while addressing the challenge of declining user in-app purchases in 2024.
30. Create a betting game
How do I start a gaming business?
Starting a gaming business can be a daunting task, but with the right planning and execution it can be a very successful venture.
The first step is to come up with a great game concept. This is the foundation of your business, so it needs to be something that will appeal to a wide audience.
Once you have your concept, you need to assemble a team of talented developers who can turn your vision into reality.
Funding is another important consideration; you'll need to raise enough money to cover the costs of development and marketing.
Once your game is complete, you'll need to launch a marketing campaign to generate interest and drive sales.
If you can successfully navigate these steps, you'll be well on your way to starting a successful gaming business.
How profitable is the gaming industry?
The gaming industry is extremely profitable. In 2020, it generated $155 billion in revenue. By 2025, analysts predict it will generate more than $260 billion in revenue. This means the gaming industry is growing rapidly and is a lucrative investment opportunity.
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Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
