You grind, smash through leaderboards, and pull off clutch plays, but you've probably never thought of taking your gaming from the screen to the bank. Welcome to the world of esports, where passion meets profession. Whether it's FPS showdowns or strategy-packed RPGs, the industry is shining with jobs beyond simply playing, like game design, commentary, coaching, and event management
So, how do you break into this world and transform from a casual player into a pro? Here's your roadmap to turning gaming into a legit career:
What is esports and why is it a growing career option?
Esports refers to competitive video gaming, either on an individual basis or on teams, that engage in the competition of games like League of Legends, Dota 2, PUBG, Fortnite, and others.
These have enabled huge virtual communities and attracted millions of viewers. This sport has transformed into a multi-billion-dollar industry where one can work beyond just playing; they may help achieve various careers, from game development and event management to commentary, marketing, content creation, and entrepreneurship.
How do you get into esports?
Pick your lane: Just like in League of Legends, every role in the gaming world matters. Decide whether you want to be a pro player, a game developer, a streamer, or maybe even an esports journalist.
Get the gear: Invest in some solid gaming equipment. No one ever became a champion with laggy gear.
Join the right squad: Networking is important. Join online communities, attend gaming conventions, and connect with other gamers to learn and grow.
Practice like a pro: Just like Sage healing her teammates, you need to continually build your skills. Practice makes perfect, whether you're a streamer or a competitor.
Now let's see how gaming can help you to pay your bills:
Start by playing professionally: If you are already a gamer, you can start by competing in tournaments. Platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and other streaming services have created a space where gamers can stream their skills to build a fanbase and even make money through sponsorships, ads, and subscriptions.
Get into game development: If you enjoy the creative side of gaming, you may be interested in game design, animation, or programming. These positions allow you to make games that you enjoy playing and help shape the future of gaming and esports.
Content creation: Not all esports careers require you to be a professional player. Many individuals earn by creating gaming content – guides, streams, videos, and reviews. This offers another avenue for people passionate about gaming but not necessarily looking to compete professionally.
Event management: Esports events need organizers, managers, analysts, and commentators. If you have a knack for leadership, event planning, or public speaking, this could be an ideal option.
The doors are open to all, and it is possible for a person with the right skills and dedication to take space in the world of esports.
Are women being given enough recognition in gaming?
Gaming is always considered a male-dominated industry. But with every passing year, this is slowly changing because women are actively playing, streaming, or working professionally in fields usually associated with gaming, including game design, content creation, and business.
Women in gaming: Not just side characters anymore
The side character is a thing of the past. Today, women are the Reynas, Sages, and Jetts of the industry - powerful, strategic, and leading the charge. Iconic female characters in games like Valorant have women slaying in-game and making waves in the esports industry.
According to the "Gaming India Report 2022," 46% of gamers in India are women. That's right: nearly half the gaming population is made up of fierce female players who are redefining what it means to be a gamer.
Payal Dhare, known as "Payal Gaming", and Krutika Ojha, known as "Krutika Plays", have been popular content creators and streamers in the gaming genre. They explain that women help provide a new look, creativity, and innovative ideas to the industry. Payal Dhare believes that there will be innovation, expansion to new audiences, and an increase in the sector's revenue if more women join gaming.
Why is gender inclusion important in gaming?
Embracing diversity in gaming is the next step for innovative ideas. Women bring varying viewpoints that promote enhancement of the value system such as well-designed games that can be attached to more human-like characters and related narratives. The fact is, according to Krutika Ojha "Embracing diversity and inclusion in the gaming industry is a goal we are constantly striving towards." More diverse teams can create games that appeal to broader audiences and break down outdated stereotypes.
Furthermore, women who work in gaming as developers, writers, or marketers are playing a key role in shaping the industry and ensuring that games reflect the world’s diversity.
The XP grind: Challenges women face in esports
Even the progress being made, women still face several challenges in the gaming industry, including bias, harassment, and a lack of opportunities.
Gender-based discrimination and stereotypes
There was a time when this industry was almost considered male-gendered; female gamers often go through gender-based discrimination. They get stereotyped as not "real" gamers or are undermined based on gender. In some cases, women have to perform extra hard to win respect and reputation compared to males.
Sexism in esports and streaming
Sexism presents a challenge uniquely to competitive gamers and esports relative to other gaming types. While playing online, women often become victims of hate speech and cyberbullying remarks.
These features may deter other women from competing in the various esports activities aspiring to create successful careers. However, despite sexism creating discouragement towards women's development in the sporting activity, the few who succeeded opened avenues for others.
There is not enough role and mentorship support for women in the industry. More success stories of females in the space can inspire women to pursue their careers in the gaming industry. Kaashvi Hiranandani, famously known as "Kaash Plays," transitioned from her finance career into a full-time streamer-a perfect example of how women change the industry while inspiring others to follow their passions, even within a male-dominated space.
The future for women in gaming looks bright. There is more integration into roles like development, streaming, and leadership as women come on board in this field. Areas like video game writing, producing, and even virtual reality have numerous opportunities.
So, if you’ve been dreaming about turning your love for gaming into a full-time gig, now’s the time to make your move.
Game on, ladies! The world of esports is waiting for its next champion.