Video games were originally created to unwind after stressful days or simply pass the time. However, the significant change began when some of these games started incorporating real-time elements, such as money, competition, and social interaction. This simple action took the games from mere entertainment into interactive platforms where people can earn or even build careers.

Although gaming is a legitimate profession, it is still surrounded by misconceptions. Many people continue to stereotype gamers as lazy or socially isolated. In this article, we will explore the top five myths about professional gamers.

1. Gaming Isn’t a “Real” Career

Remember, games were initially designed for recreation. This idea is what fuels the narrative that gaming isn’t a “real” career. Yet, the number of professional gamers across the world keeps growing.

Don’t be surprised that industries like eSports and online gaming have gained massive traction over the years. They have even generated millions of dollars for players and organizations.

Today, many top-tier professional gamers can earn over $70,000 annually from competitive gaming and eSports. In addition to their base salaries, many gamers earn through sponsorships, tournaments, and content creation. Altogether, this highlight reveals just how lucrative and “real” professional gaming has become.

2. Professional Gamers Are Just Lazy People Playing Games All Day

On average, when we think about gaming, we think of long hours in front of a TV screen and a console. While there is some degree of truth in that, gaming is much more than that. This profession shares many similarities with athletes in traditional sports. For instance, professional gamers have to train and put in work to ensure they’re fit for playing these video games.

Professional gaming also requires an immense amount of discipline and commitment. Gamers sit for long hours and stick to their objectives even when they are losing. In reality, professional gamers closely mirror traditional athletes. The table below compares the work ethic of professional gamers to that of traditional athletes:

3. Gamers Don’t Need Any Skill

A common misconception is that gaming doesn’t require any real skill. Many people believe it is just about tapping buttons on a gamepad controller. In truth, professional gamers must develop and master multiple skills to succeed at the highest levels. Below are the necessary skills needed to excel in the gaming space as a professional:

• Cognitive Skills: Gamers need to develop their mental abilities to maintain focus and stay sharp. This enables them to handle problems quickly and make informed decisions.
• Strategic Skills: Strategies are highly important in video games and eSports. Gamers need to know how to plan, adapt to any situation, and outsmart their opponents — all of which can be done with an effective strategy.
• Coordination Skills: Gaming outcomes are fast and sometimes unpredictable — gamers need to develop their coordination skills to ensure their hands and eyes are in sync and improve their reaction time.
• Communication Skills: Success in team-based games depends on how well players can work together. As such, excellent communication is an indispensable tool to excel in the professional gaming space.

Even though gamers spend long hours in front of their TV, they are always learning, adapting, and evolving to thrive in the competitive gaming market.

4. Gamers Are Socially Isolated

Many people assume gamers are socially isolated because they spend long hours on the screen. Although this is true to an extent, it doesn’t reflect the full picture. We now have gaming communities that foster social interactions between gamers across the world.

Streaming platforms like Twitch.tv have been a game changer in the way gamers interact socially. This platform allows them to communicate with their viewers and build vibrant online communities. Furthermore, many gaming organizations host real-life events to connect, share ideas, and build partnerships with players.

5. Only Teenagers Can Be Successful Gamers

Another common misconception held by the general public is that only teenagers can be successful professional gamers. This is because most gamers you’ll find nowadays are in their late teens to early 20s. However, there is no exact age limit to becoming a professional gamer.

In fact, gaming offers multiple roles beyond holding a gamepad controller for long hours. Regardless of age, you can coach aspiring gamers, create gaming content, comment on games, and manage gaming communities. With this diverse system, anyone can build a career and tap into the gaming industry.

Professional Gaming Opportunities: From eSports to Casinos

Professional gaming offers numerous exciting opportunities for enthusiasts worldwide. Players can participate in competitive eSports tournaments or engage in casino-based games to earn real money.

In fact, many online casino platforms attract professional players by offering lucrative incentives, such as free spins, no deposit bonuses, or a non sticky bonus offers, which allow players to try games without locking in their deposit.

One sweet thing about professional gaming is that you can start with nothing. As such, professional gaming is no longer just a fringe activity. It’s a competitive, high-stakes, global career path that blends skill, strategy, and innovation.

How to Become a Professional Gamer

Professional gaming is a lucrative profession born from technological advancements. Remember, the world keeps advancing, and everything is getting more sophisticated by the day. As such, it is safe to say the number of professional gamers is expected to keep growing in the coming years.

For many, professional gaming remains an untapped goldmine. Below are smart tips to pursue a career as a professional gamer:

• Develop strong reflexes and strategic thinking.
• Practice regularly and improve your skills.
• Participate in global tournaments against other players.
• Build an online presence on trending social media platforms.
• Consistently interact with other gamers by joining active communities.

Note that being a gamer is not all rosy. It comes with its own share of challenges. You may face physical strains and even find it difficult to balance your gaming and social life. You need the right mindset to overcome these obstacles and thrive in the profession.

Conclusion

Professional gaming has become a lucrative industry in today’s world. Don’t be surprised that gamers make thousands of dollars each year by playing games, creating content, and live streaming. In fact, this profession is projected to contribute billions of dollars to the global economy within a few years.

Despite its growing influence, some people still believe that professional gaming is a joke. But as with any industry, it’s crucial to overlook outdated stereotypes and understand the hard work behind the screens. So, the next time someone says gaming isn’t a “real job,” just smile and maybe send them this article.