Earning by reviewing new games is a legit and fun way to turn your gaming passion into income. If you love analyzing gameplay, story, graphics, or mechanics—and can express your thoughts clearly—you can build a steady income stream through multiple platforms.
🎮 How to Earn by Reviewing New Games
.jpg)
✅ 1. Where to Publish Your Reviews
| Platform | How You Earn |
|---|---|
| YouTube | Ad revenue, affiliate links, sponsorships |
| Gaming Blog | Google AdSense, affiliate links, sponsored content |
| Medium/Substack | Paid subscriptions, tips |
| Reddit, Discord, Forums | Build reputation & drive traffic to content |
| Gaming sites (freelance) | Paid per review (IGN, Screen Rant, Twinfinite) |
| Steam Reviews | Exposure (less direct income, good for credibility) |
✅ 2. Monetization Options
| Income Stream | How It Works |
|---|---|
| YouTube Ads | Get paid per view once monetized |
| Affiliate Marketing | Earn when readers/viewers buy games via your link (Amazon, Humble Bundle, etc.) |
| Sponsored Reviews | Get paid by game developers or PR firms to review new titles (honestly) |
| Patreon / Ko-fi | Let fans support your reviews with monthly tips |
| Freelance Writing | Write reviews for gaming blogs or news sites and get paid per article |
| eBook Collections | Compile your reviews into themed gaming guides and sell them online |
✅ 3. How to Get Free Review Copies
-
Build a portfolio of honest reviews
-
Reach out to indie devs on Twitter/X, Steam, or Itch.io
-
Sign up for press access on platforms like:
-
Join game review Discords or subreddits to find early access invites
🧠 What Makes a Great Game Review?
| Element | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Clear structure | Introduction, pros/cons, verdict |
| Honest opinion | Build trust—don’t just hype |
| Gameplay footage/images | Increases engagement |
| Comparisons | Help readers relate to similar games |
| SEO keywords | Helps your reviews rank in Google/YouTube |
💰 Example Earnings Potential
| Platform | Beginner | Growing | Pro-Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| YouTube channel | $0–$100/mo | $500–$2,000+ | $5,000+/month |
| Blog/Medium | $20–$300/mo | $1,000+/mo | $5,000+/mo |
| Freelance reviewing | $25–$100+/review | $500+/month | Full-time gig possible |
⚠️ Important Notes
-
Disclose sponsored reviews clearly to stay transparent
-
Avoid reviewing games you haven’t played thoroughly
-
Stay objective—even if you got the game for free
-
Build trust and consistency to grow your audience and income