Video game testing can be an exciting way to earn money while helping developers create better games. Let's dive in!
How to Get Paid to Test Video Games in 2024: Complete Guide
This guide explores legitimate opportunities to get paid for playing and testing video games, with typical earnings ranging from $10-$50 per hour depending on experience and the company.
1. PlaytestCloud
PlaytestCloud specializes in mobile game testing. Testers typically earn $9-15 per test, with sessions lasting 15-30 minutes. Requirements include a smartphone/tablet, stable internet connection, and ability to clearly communicate feedback in English. Perfect for beginners in game testing.
2. Betabound
Betabound connects testers with major gaming companies. Tests pay $20-50 per hour, with opportunities for both casual and professional testing. They frequently work with major publishers and offer both remote and in-person testing opportunities.
3. Electronic Arts (EA)
EA offers full-time QA testing positions with benefits, paying $15-25 per hour. Requires strong attention to detail and ability to work in their testing facilities. Experience with bug tracking software is preferred.
4. Global Beta Test Network
Keywords International's testing network pays $10-15 per hour for part-time testing. Great for nights and weekends, with flexible scheduling and remote work options.
5. Activision Game Testing
Activision hires both temporary and permanent testers, paying $14-20 per hour. Most positions are on-site in their testing centers in California or Minnesota. Previous QA experience is preferred but not always required.
6. Ubisoft Playtest
Ubisoft regularly recruits testers for their upcoming games. Pay ranges from $15-25 per hour, with both remote and in-studio testing opportunities. Testers must sign NDAs and can get early access to major titles like Assassin's Creed and Far Cry series.
7. Nintendo Product Testing
Nintendo offers both temporary and permanent testing positions in Redmond, WA. Starting pay is $16-22 per hour with potential for advancement. Requires extensive gaming experience and ability to work on-site.
8. Player Research
Specializing in game user research, Player Research pays $20-40 per session. They focus on player experience testing rather than bug testing, making it perfect for those interested in game design and user experience.
9. Gameloft
Mobile game giant Gameloft hires testers worldwide, paying $12-18 per hour. Remote positions available for mobile game testing, with opportunities to work on popular franchises.
10. VMC Game Labs
Part of Keywords Studios, VMC offers flexible testing opportunities paying $12-20 per hour. They work with major publishers and offer both remote and in-person testing sessions across multiple platforms.
11. TestBirds
TestBirds platform offers game testing opportunities among other software testing jobs. Pay ranges from €8-20 per test, with most tests taking 20-40 minutes to complete. Available internationally with regular testing opportunities.
12. Square Enix Play Testing
Famous for Final Fantasy and other RPGs, Square Enix runs regular playtesting sessions. Pay ranges from $50-100 per session, with tests typically lasting 2-4 hours. Most testing occurs in their LA or London offices.
13. UserTesting
While not exclusively for games, UserTesting regularly features game testing opportunities. Testers earn $10 per 20-minute test, with opportunities for longer tests paying $30-60. Great platform for consistent testing work.
14. Blizzard Entertainment
Creators of World of Warcraft and Overwatch hire both temporary and full-time testers. Entry-level positions start at $15-20 per hour, with full-time positions including benefits and advancement opportunities. Most positions are based in Irvine, CA.
Alternative Income Opportunities
While waiting for game testing opportunities, consider exploring other flexible earning options. You might want to check out remote jobs that are always hiring or try some profitable items to flip for extra income.
Requirements for Game Testing
- Strong attention to detail
- Excellent written communication skills
- Reliable internet connection
- Gaming experience across multiple platforms
- Basic understanding of bug reporting
- Ability to follow strict NDAs
How to Get Started
- Create profiles on major testing platforms
- Complete any required assessment tests
- Join gaming forums and communities
- Follow gaming companies on LinkedIn
- Build a portfolio of detailed bug reports
Frequently Asked Questions About Video Game Testing
How much do video game testers make?
Entry-level video game testers typically earn between $10-15 per hour, while experienced testers can make $20-50 per hour. Full-time positions at major gaming companies often include benefits and can pay $30,000-$70,000 annually.
Do you need experience to become a game tester?
While professional experience isn't always required, you need strong gaming knowledge and attention to detail. Many companies offer entry-level positions but prefer candidates with experience in multiple gaming platforms and basic understanding of bug reporting.
Is video game testing a full-time job?
Video game testing can be both full-time and part-time. Major gaming companies offer full-time positions with benefits, while platforms like PlaytestCloud and Betabound provide flexible, part-time opportunities that can be done remotely.
Tips for Success
To maximize your earnings as a game tester:
- Create detailed, professional bug reports
- Meet all deadlines and communication requirements
- Build relationships with testing coordinators
- Stay updated with latest gaming trends
- Consider certification in QA testing
