Online gaming has become a commonplace activity for many individuals. Some kill time this way, others unwind from a hectic day. However, there is a third category: individuals who earn money through games.
According to statistics, today, in 98 out of 100 cases, at least one game is installed on users' computers.
There is even a concept known as "esports," where players compete against each other for monetary rewards. However, making money in the gaming industry does not necessarily require a full-time commitment to gaming.
Experienced investors can earn significant income through game development. A quality application can generate millions of dollars, with users willing to spend on level progression, in-game items, and more. There are numerous genres, including:
- strategies;
- arcade games;
- quests;
- shooters;
- simulators, etc.
Any user can find an application that resonates with them.
Thus, the gaming industry represents a promising avenue for investment, capable of providing a stable income over an extended period.
How should one invest wisely? What are the nuances of this sector?
To navigate the intricacies of investing in the gaming industry, I would like to introduce Sergey Tereshkin, the founder of RESURS. The entrepreneur is well-versed in all current investment tools and can share his insights and findings. To learn more about him, visit his website: www.org-market.ru.
What Games Are in High Demand
Among users, mobile and browser-based games are the most sought-after. The former requires the installation of an application on a smartphone or tablet, allowing users to play online against others or engage in offline activities.
Users can download applications from Google Play or other platforms that feature ratings and reviews from real gamers.
Social networks offer a variety of browser games that do not require installation or high-performance PCs. These games often have simple plots, yet they can generate significant revenue, with users eager to invest money.
This is primarily due to social engagement. Any player can invite friends from social networks into the game. As a result, gamers or complete teams take on various challenges and participate in battles. It is impossible to fully complete such games, as they have no definitive end. Moreover, victory is also unattainable; once one challenge is completed, a new one awaits. There is often a waiting period between tasks.
Most browser games have a virtual currency that users spend on equipment, artifacts, and other items. To acquire this currency, players need to invest real money into the system. The application connects to various payment services for this purpose.
Investing in browser games is a superb way to increase capital, especially if a quality program can gain user favor.
Currently, a vast number of programmers, web designers, and other specialists are involved in this sector. The volume of necessary investments depends on the complexity of the game, the quality of graphics, and other factors. On average, creating a simple application costs about $20,000 to $30,000. However, substantial projects can require millions. Nevertheless, these expenses usually yield returns of 500% or more with the right approach.
To ensure a competitive product protected by copyright, one must invest around $500,000. In the U.S. and European countries, nearly the entire budget goes toward paying specialists, most of whom work remotely. In Russia, only half of the budget is allocated for this purpose; the remaining funds cover equipment purchases, office rentals, licenses, taxes, bribes, and other expenses.
Risks
Investing always carries a risk. In some cases, it is greater, in others, less. The gaming industry is no exception. According to Sergey Tereshkin, potential investors may encounter the following risks:
- Loss of interest. Users may simply dislike the game, resulting in investors being unable to recoup their investments.
- Trends. Even if a program is of high quality and visually appealing, market trends may change at the time of its release. As a result, users may switch to other genres, leaving the game untapped. To avoid this, it is crucial to constantly monitor the market.
- Development duration. A quality product often takes 2-3 years to develop. Therefore, during this entire period, invested funds will be virtually frozen and not generating income. What's next is unpredictable. If user interests shift, it may be wise to pause funding for the project temporarily.
Few competent developers would trust a product to an inexperienced publisher with a poor reputation. Investors need to establish a contract with the programming team in advance, allowing them to take part in the distribution of the game. This will enable profit sharing at all stages.
If necessary, an investor can engage a trusted programmer to oversee the development and ensure the timely completion of the project.
Investors can either commit their own funds or attract acquaintances with available resources. In such cases, profits are divided based on the share of investment.
Investing in games presents a profitable method for generating income. The key is to approach the process wisely and not let everything fall by the wayside.
