Writing gaming guides or walkthroughs is a great way to earn money while helping other players enjoy and master their favorite games. If you're skilled at breaking down gameplay, strategies, or mechanics, you can turn that knowledge into real income.
🎮 How to Earn by Writing Gaming Guides or Walkthroughs
✅ 1. What You Can Write About
| Type of Guide | Examples |
|---|---|
| Walkthroughs | Step-by-step story progression |
| Strategy Guides | Best builds, combat tips, raid tactics |
| Character/Weapon Guides | Loadouts, leveling, stats optimization |
| How-To Tutorials | Farming, crafting, base-building |
| Easter Eggs & Secrets | Hidden items, secret levels |
| Achievement/Trophy Guides | How to unlock all trophies or badges |
✅ 2. Where to Publish and Earn
| Platform | How You Earn |
|---|---|
| GameFAQs | Ad revenue (through fan-made guides) |
| YouTube (voice-over + text) | Ad revenue, affiliate links |
| Medium / Substack | Earn from paid subscriptions or tips |
| Personal Blog | Use Google AdSense + affiliate links |
| Reddit or Discord | Grow a following & promote content |
| IGN, Polygon, Screen Rant (freelance) | Pay per article or word |
| Steam Guides | Exposure & building reputation |
💡 Tip: Combine written guides with video tutorials for double exposure and monetization.
✅ 3. Monetization Methods
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Ad Revenue | From YouTube videos or blog traffic |
| Affiliate Marketing | Link to gaming gear or in-game currency |
| Paid Access | Lock premium guides behind paywalls (Patreon, Substack) |
| Freelance Work | Get paid by gaming sites for your guides |
| eBook Sales | Compile large guides into paid PDFs/eBooks |
💰 Example Earnings Potential
| Platform/Model | Beginner | Experienced |
|---|---|---|
| Blog with AdSense | $10–$200/month | $500+/month |
| YouTube (guides) | $100–$500 | $1,000+/month |
| Freelance writing | $25–$150/article | $500+/month |
| eBook (walkthrough) | $5–$20 per sale | $500+ (passive) |
🔧 Tips for Success
-
Focus on specific games or niches (e.g. Soulslike games, mobile RPGs, FPS loadouts)
-
Use keywords players are searching (e.g. “best Elden Ring PvP build”)
-
Write clearly, break into sections, and use headings
-
Include images, maps, or videos when possible
-
Be active on Reddit, Discord, and forums to share your work
⚠️ Watch Out For
-
Plagiarism: Make sure your guide is original content
-
Game updates: Guides can become outdated—keep them fresh
-
Spoilers: Warn readers/viewers when including plot spoilers