Online Real Money Games, Gaming, and Gambling Guide 2023

Can you play games to make, earn, or win real money online?

Yes, there are multiple ways to win, make, or earn cash playing games. In fact, players will find at least 21 legitimate types of games that pay real money in the form of cash prizes and rewards, categorized broadly into six primary categories.

Learning how to invest time in these money-based games using apps and online gambling platforms across the internet opens diverse avenues for becoming a cash winner.

By reading reviews, completing effective research, and subsequently making the right game choices, you can be earning money with access to genuine prospects for a profitable return on investments.

The chances of a real cash prize win vary from game to game, and players looking to become a cash winner can typically play in virtually any currency. Win or lose, the entertainment value is substantial provided a player is mindful of the risks associated with gambling.

Players have the flexibility to choose their gaming medium – be it through mobile apps, phones, laptops, or desktop computers.

Withdrawing cash winnings is typically straightforward with an array of accessible payment methods, including PayPal, facilitating the smooth collection of any money earned, made, or won. Equally, depositing money into a gaming account is easy, too. 

While hitting jackpots and securing sizeable payouts with a bet or series of bets is a possibility, a more common outcome is a gradual accumulation of winnings rather than building stacks of coins rapidly.

In games where you can influence outcomes with some form of skill or ability, employing known playing strategies and tactics to secure wins can enhance chances of success and lead to a profitable risk and reward balance. Achieving the right balance can positively alter the cumulative effect of wins and losses over a longer period.

The array of games offering online cash prize opportunities includes PayPal games, Android games, slot machines, and a variety of casino games. These, however, are just a segment of the wider spectrum of gaming options to enjoy on authentic money gaming sites.

Playing can also be classified as a leisure activity and a contributor to a players’ online entertainment, whether there is money at risk or not. Indeed, it’s sensible to approach real money gaming on an entertainment/expense basis and pay attention to responsible gambling practices. You ideally want the best level of entertainment and the lowest level of risk balanced against the cost.

For anyone seeking options for how and where to make and claim extra cash, it’s clear there are plenty of ways to use gaming to supplement income. Throughout RealMoney.games we’ll learn how and where to legally and safely play for real cash and other rewards on legitimate websites or mobile apps.

What games can you play for cash prizes?

At high level, the assortment of games you can play for tangible cash prizes encompasses both free-to-play options and those specifically designed for betting or wagering to win money.

All games fall into one of the six high-level real money game categories, with individual types of games appearing in the list of 21 game types and variants.

About the Author

This home page of www.realmoney.games was created and written by Steve – RealMoneyGames (AKA chaumi)

Steve, a seasoned gambler with over 45 years of experience, is a knowledgeable authority on multiple forms of real money gaming and online betting. He has been the principal content creator for RealMoney.games since its inception in 2017.

A keen horse racing enthusiast, Steve has extensive insight into various betting platforms, and enjoys casino games, slots, and poker for leisure. He is recognized by the username ‘chaumi’ in popular online gambling and webmaster forums like Gambling Portal Webmasters Association (GPWA), Affiliate Guard Dog (AGD), and TalkingHorses.co.uk, often receiving thanks for posting helpful comments in forum threads.

Read more about Steve on the RealMoney.games about us page.

This page was last reviewed and updated 2nd December 2023.

What are the 21 types of real money games?

The six real money gaming categories comprise of 21 individual game types, forming a collective list containing multiple gaming options. Each option contains several variants.

Find the right one that best suits your requirements, interests, and skills and you’ll be on your first steps to a real money payout:

What are the best games to play for real money?

Identifying the best game to play for real money depends on your preferences, such as ease of access, entertainment value, skills needed to win, or winning odds. Also, consider if you’re willing to risk money or prefer free-play apps. The optimal game varies from options within the six main categories and the 21 game types:

• Casino games, scratchcards, and lotteries are ideal for quick returns and rely on luck.
• Skill-based video games or cash tournaments cater to avid gamers.
• Free-to-play games with cash prizes suit those avoiding financial risk.

Your choice also hinges on location legality, budget, risk tolerance, desire for advanced graphics, and preference for innovative or classic games.

RealMoney.games recommended games

Taking all criteria into account, it’s cash prize skill-based games that often provide the best balance of enjoyment, winning chances, and low risk.

Note that several options require a stake to play and carry the risk of losing. That possibility of losing a stake is not an issue with free game apps, many of which can meet many of the criteria for enjoyable gaming.

What are the best free game apps that pay real money?

The following list contains some of the best game apps we’ve found based on online player reviews, trustworthiness, entertainment value, availability across operating systems, and game genre. These apps regularly attract high ratings and plenty of stars in player experience reviews, with many receiving accolades for their user interface and gaming experience. They’re widely used by gamers worldwide since they’re an effective way of earning money or making extra cash at little or no cost:

1. Blackout Bingo
2. Swagbucks
3. Axie Infinity
4. Long Game
5. Gamehag
6. Wealth Words
7. Givling
8. Klondike Solitaire
9. 8-Ball Pool
10. 21 Blitz
11. Lucky Day
12. Spin Royale
13. Gamee
14. WSOP Real Money Poker
15. Inboxdollars

I wouldn’t say these apps are necessarily the best real money games overall since there are many other ways to earn some side income playing games. But for mobile phone players, these fun-based apps are hugely popular.

The best way to approach this type of gaming is as a bit of fun with some potential for winning extra cash. They are normally safe to play, with each of the major app stores having safeguards in place to protect users from scams or rogue game operators.

Google Play is one app store with a pretty robust published policy around real-money gambling apps, ads related to real-money gambling, loyalty programs with gamified outcomes, and daily fantasy sports apps. However, the sheer number of apps purporting to offer rewards for playing means policing is difficult. Some untrustworthy apps do operate, hence it’s best to stick with long-running, tried and trusted providers.

Blackout Bingo

Blackout Bingo provides quick online bingo games, with each round taking just two minutes and offering real cash prizes. Players earn extra points for speed and achieving double bingo. Points can be redeemed for PayPal cash or merchandise.

Available for download on Android via the Play Store and for iOS devices from Apple, it’s also featured on the Skillz gaming platform.

As an alternative, Bingo Cash, a direct competitor, offers a similar experience but is reputedly easier for accumulating winnings for free, although Blackout Bingo is preferred for multi-player tournaments.

Swagbucks

Swagbucks allows gamers to earn cash by playing a variety of games such as bingo, card, dice, slots, puzzles, and adventure quests, alongside watching ads and completing surveys. As players level up, they unlock larger prize payouts, redeemable as cash or gift cards with a minimum cashout of only one dollar.

To start earning, visit the Swagbucks website.

Axie Infinity

Axie Infinity, riding the wave of cryptocurrency growth, offers players a unique way to supplement their income through a skill-based game that requires an initial investment. Operating on the Ethereum blockchain, players use ETH coins to play, earning rewards also in ETH, which can be exchanged for fiat currency.

This Play-to-Earn game combines traditional gameplay with financial elements, rewarding strong in-game performance with financial returns.

Long Game

Long Game merges saving with gaming, offering a free app that rewards users with game-playing opportunities to win cash prizes, directly linked to their bank account savings. Key features like Custom Saving Jars enhance the experience. Read more about the Long Game rewards at Google Play.

Go here to play free Long Game.

Gamehag

Gamehag is a gaming rewards platform where players earn prizes and gift cards by playing popular video games on desktop PCs, Android, or iOS smartphones. The key feature is Soul Gems, the virtual currency earned through gameplay, redeemable for various rewards. Gamehag explains the concept of Soul Gems in depth on their shop webpage.

Wealth Words

Wealth Words, a globally recognized gaming app, garners numerous positive reviews on platforms like Trustpilot. By signing up via the app or website, users can earn real money playing a variety of games, including crosswords, puzzles, and literary games, with a selection of over 500 titles.

• Visit the Wealth Words website.
• Wealth Words on the Apple Store.
• Read Wealth Words reviews.

Givling App

Givling stands out for targeting students, offering a chance to pay off student loans. In the app, users engage in free or paid trivia contests, competing against up to 300,000 players. Players answer true/false questions to win weekly cash prizes, with the top three sharing the jackpot. Users can play for free twice daily, each game lasting a few minutes.

Although jackpot chances are low, active users (participating in the free game at least ten times every 30 days) enter random draws for up to $10k, used for loan repayment. Detailed information about Givling’s platform and prize structure is available on their FAQ page.

Klondike Solitaire

Solitaire, known for its mental stimulation, is typically played for free, but real money versions are available. This card game, offering several variants, can be played on Android or iOS devices. It stands out among casino card games for its diverse forms, especially the popular Klondike versions.

For those interested in solitaire with cash prizes, explore the options to play for real money at Skillz.com.

8-Ball Pool

8-Ball Pool, an app for playing pool from home, offers 1-on-1 challenges and multiplayer tournaments against friends or other players. Winning games earns you Pool Coins and allows you to level up.

The app features customization options for cues and tables and is free on iPhone, iPad, iTouch, and Android devices.

• Join the 8-Ball Pool tables on Android
• Play the 8-balls on the Apple App  
• Play the original 8-Ball Pool at Miniclip

21 Blitz

21 Blitz blends Blackjack and Solitaire into a quick card game where players compete to win cash. Initially playable for free, you can hone your skills before funding an account for real stakes. The game’s objective is to create 21s or stacks of 5 cards for points, with bonuses for high performance in rounds.

Learn how the game works by downloading the 21 Blitz app from the Apple Store, or Android users can visit the Play Store.

The app is also available on the Skillz mobile gaming platform.

Lucky Day

Lucky Day, a leading sweepstakes app, allows players to participate in free games like daily scratch-offs and raffles, accumulating virtual coins or tokens for cashout via PayPal or gift cards. With over 10 million installs, many winners and positive reviews confirm its legitimacy.

Although ad-heavy, this use of ads is how the app generates revenue. Besides gaming, users can earn tokens by completing surveys, accepting offers, watching videos, and referring new members.

Visit the Lucky Day professional-looking website for complete details or download the Luck Day app from the Apple Store.

Spin Royale : Play the slots app to win real money

Spin Royale, a leading sweepstakes rewards app available on Android and iOS, allows players to win cash through free daily slot spins. Downloadable at no cost from the Google Play or Apple store, players can win cash or tokens by matching symbols.

Developed by UK-based Viker Ltd, the app supports payouts via PayPal, Visa, gift cards, and in-game currencies, and generates revenue through video ads. While not a significant money-maker and with some potentially misleading ads, Spin Royale offers an effortless way to earn a small amount.

Gamee

Gamee is another highly-rated app offering ways to play games based on luck, compete in tournaments, or even just log in consistently over a period of days to collect tickets and win one of Gamee’s real money prizes. The Gamee site states there is up to $10,000 available in instant prizes to win every week and all you have to do is spin the Fortune Wheel, play the Lucky Games, or take part in the Daily Gamee Lotto.

Get the Gamee app here at Google Play or download from the Apple Store.

WSOP Real Money Poker

Online poker players are spoilt for choice in their gaming and there are many poker sites like Pokerstars or 888Poker that offer cash games and tournaments. One of the most prestigious, though, is the WSOP poker site where players can also download apps and play. WSOP stands for World Series of Poker and regularly promotes major global tournaments.

You can read much more about the WSOP organisation here and download the app for Android or iPhone on this page.

Inboxdollars

InboxDollars is a rewards app where users earn cash by completing surveys, watching videos, playing games, and shopping online. Earnings are accumulated from various advertisers and can be cashed out via check, PayPal, or gift cards. This app offers a convenient way to earn extra money through simple online tasks.

Note this list of trustworthy, legit apps is not fully exhaustive. If any of these don’t take your interest, you could also try the following alternatives. Market trends and analysis suggests they each offer good money-winning or money-earning opportunities:

• Pulsz: Fun slots and casino – a high-quality social casino experience with over 300 social casino games, including slots, poker and roulette.
• Mistplay – discover new games and get rewarded while playing.
• Lucktastic – a fun and free way to win real cash and prizes and earn rewards.
• Dominoes Gold – play the classic board game dominos for real-world prizes.
• Bananatic – play and test free online games. Write game reviews. Complete in-game quests to win virtual currency.
• Match to win – 100% free money-making app where you can play for cash and win real rewards.
• Royal Slots – play the thrilling Royal casino slot machines with a 20M slots welcome bonus for free.
• Solitaire Cash – a free app that lets you compete with other players at the same skill level for the opportunity to earn cash prizes.
• Solitaire Cube – compete in large cash tournaments and head-to-head competitions with valuable prizes.
• Big Time Cash – popular app where you can make real money playing video games.

All of these apps offer legitimate ways to play and win or earn cash. They’re not true gambling-type options, though, that will offer the prospects of larger wins. For that, you’ll need to be playing at reputable online gambling sites.

What are the most reputable online gambling sites with real money games?

Legal restrictions significantly impact online gambling, making it challenging to compile a universally applicable list of top sites, as availability varies by region. However, a list of reputable operators, thoroughly reviewed on RealMoney.games, is available to guide players:

• Learn how a leading cryptocurrency casino operates in this BC.game review where we look at the games library and bonus deals available to players.
• Further to the review of the highly-rated BC.games crypto casino, here’s a review of its main competitor Bitstarz Casino.
• Bet365 is one of the leading all-in-one betting sites that offers sportsbetting, casino games, poker, bingo, and esports betting. Find out more in this detailed review of Bet365 online gambling services.
• There are several operators focused on purely providing online lottery games. Jackpot.com is one of the leaders, as you’ll see in this Jackpot.com lotteries review. For players keen to test their poker skills to win money, Americas Cardroom is a poker room worth consideration. Learn how ACR works and performs in this Americas Cardroom review.
• Chumba Casino is the original social sweepstakes casino games operator. You won’t be playing the games with real cash stakes, but the sweepstakes model does give chances to get real cash payouts. Out Chumba Casino review explores how the sweepstakes gaming model works.
• Bingo games are among the most straightforward types of cash prize games. Mecca Bingo, offering both online and land-based options for playing, is a name that’s well-know in the industry and this analysis specifically explores Mecca Bingo’s online services.

What criteria apply when choosing a high-performing real money gambling site?

Choosing a reliable real money gaming platform involves several key considerations to ensure safety, legality, and a positive gaming experience. Here are some detailed criteria to look for:

• Licensing and regulation: Check if the platform is licensed by a reputable gaming authority, like the UK Gambling Commission, Malta Gaming Authority, or Gibraltar Regulatory Authority. These bodies ensure the platform adheres to legal and ethical standards.
• Security measures: Ensure the platform uses advanced security measures like SSL encryption to protect personal and financial data.
• Game fairness: Look for platforms that use Random Number Generators (RNG) to ensure game fairness. Certifications from independent auditors like eCOGRA or iTech Labs are good indicators.
• Reputation and reviews: Research the platform’s reputation. Read reviews and check forums to gauge user experiences and the platform’s track record in handling issues.
• Payment options: A reliable platform should offer secure and varied payment methods, including credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and possibly cryptocurrencies. Check for any hidden fees or withdrawal limits.
• Customer support: Good customer support is crucial. Ensure the platform offers responsive support via multiple channels like email, phone, and live chat.
• Game selection: Consider the variety and quality of games offered. A reputable platform should provide a wide range of games from renowned software providers.
• Bonuses and promotions: While attractive bonuses are appealing, read the terms and conditions carefully. Unrealistic wagering requirements can be a red flag.
• Responsible gaming: Check if the platform promotes responsible gaming, including options for setting deposit limits, self-exclusion, and links to support organizations.
• Mobile compatibility: If you prefer gaming on the go, ensure the platform offers a mobile-friendly experience or a dedicated app.
• New games: Playing the same games all the time can lead to a stale experience, so it’s worth watching for an operator that will introduce new game launches regularly.

It’s not surprising that there are numerous criteria involved with choosing a site for your gaming, especially with the associated risk to your bankroll. However, a highly important aspect is legality and ensuring you can legally play. 

What are the first steps to making money playing games?

The first steps any player will need to follow to make money from gaming are:

1. Understand all the gaming options and ways to make money or win prizes.
2. Appreciate the risks.
3. Learn which types of games offer the best chances of making a cash return.
4. Ensure it’s legal for you to play.
5. Decide if you want to take the chance that luck will help you win, whether to try and use a skill or to use rewards apps.
6. Study and learn the most effective ways to play.
7. Decide if you want to play on a mobile gaming app or a website.
8. Determine which operators provide the best opportunities in your chosen game and whether any offer a sign-up deposit bonus or other valuable promotions.
9. Check a trusted review or collection of online reviews to confirm that provider is trustworthy and legit.
10. Ensure there are valid methods for making deposits and completing successful withdrawals.
11. Download the app, visit the operator’s website, and register an account.
12. Deposit if a playing balance is required using a payment method such as Apple Pay.

Essentially, you need to identify which type of game will be perfect for you and give you the best chances to win and make extra money. And then be sure you can legally and safely play that game.

How much money can you win?

Wins from real money gambling vary from minute amounts to life-changing sums. Several influences contribute to the amounts concerned, and potential payouts are influenced by these key factors:

• The type and category of game – For instance, jackpot slots might offer large payouts, while the winnings from skill-based games like poker can depend more on the player’s ability.
• Stakes and wager size – Higher stakes generally mean higher potential winnings. The amount you bet in a game directly influences the potential return. However, this also means higher risk of loss.
• Operator win limits:  imposed by the operator.
• House Edge: In casino games, the house edge is the statistical advantage that the casino has over players. Games with a lower house edge, like blackjack, typically offer better odds for players than those with a higher house edge.
• Skill Level: For skill-based games, a player’s skill level significantly influences winning potential. Skilled players can often perform better and win more consistently.
• Random Chance: In games of chance, such as slot machines, the outcomes are random. This means that winnings are largely a matter of luck, regardless of how much or little you bet.
• Payout Rates (RTP): The Return to Player (RTP) rate is a percentage that indicates the average amount of money a game will pay back to players over time. A higher RTP means a better chance of winning over the long term.
• Bonuses and Promotions: Many online gaming platforms offer bonuses and promotions that can increase your winning potential. This includes welcome bonuses, free spins, and loyalty rewards.
• Progressive Jackpots: In games with progressive jackpots, a portion of every bet contributes to a growing jackpot, which can result in large payouts.
• Tournament Winnings: In tournament-style games, such as poker or esports, prize pools are often shared among the top performers, and the winnings can be substantial, depending on the size of the tournament.
• Player Competition: In multiplayer and tournament games, the level of competition can influence winnings. Higher competition might mean tougher games, but often also higher rewards.

Legality also has an impact because, in many cases but not necessarily all, you can’t win anything if playing the game isn’t legal in the first place.

Are gambling games for real money legal?

The question of real money gaming legality is complex and is subject to both legal restrictions and geographical limitations, as well as age requirements. So, the answer to whether it’s legal varies between game types and across different countries and jurisdictions, as well as the age of any participant. In some regions, cultural attitudes towards gambling play a significant role.

Your best bet to confirm if playing is legal for you and/or if you’re located in one of the global legal online gambling jurisdictions is to check the local regulations plus the terms and conditions of any gaming website you want to play at.

Individual websites document those terms and conditions and make them easy to find. They’ll specify details on who they will accept as players with the intent of ensuring all services are supplied within the constraints of any jurisdictional nuances.

Remember that regulatory changes can occur, so keeping a close eye on local developments and any updates from regulators will be important.

In those countries where gambling is definitely legal, the websites and operators that provide services will usually need to hold authorized gaming licenses and fully follow local regulations. Regulatory compliance in gambling is designed to force operators to work within the law, as well as provide protection to customers. In combination, these are heavy contributors to the overall benefits of regulated gambling.

Generally, rules and regulations are much more relaxed when there is an obvious element of skill involved, but pure gambling games of chance are fully legal in some countries. The following section gives a high-level breakdown of legality status across various global regions:

• United States: The legality of real money gaming in the U.S. varies by state. Online gambling is legal and regulated in states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Nevada, but it’s either illegal or operates in a legal grey area in many other states. The 2006 Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) restricts banks from transacting with illegal gambling sites, but it doesn’t define what constitutes legal online gambling.
• Europe: Many European countries have well-established legal frameworks for online gambling. The United Kingdom, for instance, has a comprehensive set of laws and a regulatory body (the UK Gambling Commission) which steadfastly regulates and oversees all legal online gambling activity. Similarly, countries like Spain, Italy, and France have their own regulatory bodies and legal frameworks.
• Canada: In Canada, online gambling falls under provincial jurisdiction. Some provinces have their own online casinos, and private operators can obtain licenses to provide casino gaming in these regions. It’s illegal to operate an online casino without a license in Canada.
• Australia: Online gambling laws are complex in Australia. The Interactive Gambling Act 2001 makes it illegal to provide certain gambling services to Australians, including online casinos. Non-compliance has resulted in fines and shutdowns in recent times, even for websites providing informational services as opposed to actually running services. However, sports betting and lottery are legal.
• Asia: The legality of online gambling in Asia varies widely. In countries like India, the laws are ambiguous and vary by state. In contrast, China has strict anti-gambling laws, whereas places like Macau have a thriving gambling industry.
• Middle East: Most Middle Eastern countries strictly prohibit gambling of all forms, including online gambling, due to religious and cultural reasons.
• Africa: The African continent is made up of a wide number of individual countries. Some like Nigeria and Gambia have expressly legal gaming, but for the vast majority, the regulatory status is unclear with no clear laws.
• South America: It’s clear that online gambling is legal in Argentina but grey areas apply to most other South American countries.  

In all regions, the legal landscape is subject to change. Although changes are often slow to take effect. For players wanting to stay on the right side of any local laws and regulations, staying informed about the latest legal developments is crucial.

Remember that legal rules applied by governments and regulatory bodies that govern real money gaming are in place to ensure fairness and prevent fraud. They’re important because they protect players and maintain the integrity of the gaming industry, contributing to a safer gaming environment for all, helping prevent illegal activities, and creating fair gaming opportunities. 

How do you trust and verify the games are fair?

The mechanisms to ensure fairness and randomness are critical in maintaining trust. They fall under the general banner of game fairness assurance and include odds of winning and the integrity of the game mechanics. 

Fairness in real money gaming is provided in two main ways – certifications provided by external monitoring bodies, and technology known as RNG Random Number Technology:

• Fair play certifications: Fair play certifications are provided by independent bodies that audit and certify online gaming platforms for fairness and ethical practices. These certifications ensure that the games offered by a platform are fair, unbiased, and operate correctly. Auditors like eCOGRA, iTech Labs, and TST (Technical Systems Testing) are some of the well-known organizations in this field. They test online gaming software and systems to ensure that they comply with international standards and are fair to players.
• Random Number Generator (RNG) Technology: RNG technology is crucial in ensuring the fairness of games in online casinos. It’s a computer program that generates random sequences of numbers, ensuring that game outcomes are completely unpredictable and not manipulated. This technology applies to games like slots, roulette, and card games, where randomness determines the outcome. RNGs are regularly tested and certified by independent auditors to ensure their integrity and fairness. The use of RNGs is a standard practice in the industry to mimic the randomness of traditional, physical casino games.

If you’re using cryptocurrencies to deposit for gambling purposes, there’s another technological advancement known as Provably Fair Gaming that serves to add a layer of player protection.  Provably Fair technology uses an encryption-based algorithm that’s open to analysis and fairness testing. Players engaged with provably fair games can verify that the outcomes experienced are fair and unbiased.

Aside from technology-related trust indicators, there are additional factors supplementing that include operator reputation, regulatory compliance, and the provision of responsible gambling tools. 

The vast majority of money-earning games are genuinely legit, unlikely to be scams, and any company providing them is more likely to be trustworthy than not. All that said, it’s always sensible to do your research before playing.

While demonstration of overall fairness is crucial, there are several other factors that players will find important to varying degrees. 

What other factors involved in gaming for real money are most important for players?

To ensure you get the most out of any attempt at using gaming to make a cash wager, there are several aspects other than trust and fairness worth considering. It’ll pay to take many of these into account before choosing a game or gaming operator:

• Enjoyment level: The degree of fun or entertainment players expect to experience while playing.
• Win possibilities: There have to be real prospects for winning or a game will not hold players’ attention and interest.
• Risk appeal: The level of excitement or thrill players associate with the risk involved in wagering actual money.
• Trust in platform: The degree of trust or confidence players have in a game provider or platform, principally concerning security and fair play.
• Reward satisfaction: How satisfied players feel with the rewards, winnings, or earnings they can potentially realize from the game.
• Skill vs. luck perception: Players’ perception of whether success in the game is more influenced by skill or by luck.
• Social interaction: The perceived value of social elements in the game, such as competing with or playing against other players.
• User experience: Players’ subjective views on the ease of use, interface quality, and overall user experience of the gaming platform. Real user reviews and ratings are key sources of indicators on the trustworthiness and performance levels of both specific games and operators.
• Addiction potential: The perceived risk of any game being addictive or leading to compulsive playing habits.
• Value for money: Players’ perceptions of whether a game offers good value for the money they spend. This perspective of value for money can primarily be based on enjoyment levels or winning potential. Win potential can vary on a scale between minor and lucrative.
• Probability calculation: Provides a mathematical foundation for assessing the likelihood of winning or losing, enabling both game developers and players to understand and engage with online gambling games more effectively.
• Attention to strategic play: For those games where a specific game strategy can improve success probabilities and, equally, for situations where strategies might evolve with different game styles or over multiple sessions.
• Emotional impact: The range of emotions players expect to feel while playing, such as excitement, anticipation, satisfaction, and sometimes disappointment. The joy of winning and frustration of loss are two very real emotions many players will encounter.
• Personal skill confidence: The players’ palpable belief in their own skills or ability to succeed in a game.
• Cultural appeal: The extent to which a game resonates with players’ cultural interests or preferences.
• Ethical views: Personal opinions on the morality or ethics of engaging in real money games. 

It’s easy to see each of these factors have varying levels of importance. In addition, there are numerous other aspects that contribute to the overall experience.

What are some of the unique and innovatory aspects of real money gaming?

Innovation is often key in the ongoing development of any industry. It’s generally these types of innovations that form some unique aspects that serve to enhance many players’ enjoyment levels.

Understanding these different types of attributes helps in tailoring the gaming experience to diverse player preferences, enhancing user engagement, and differentiating gaming platforms in competitive markets.

• Custom avatar creators: For platforms that allow players to create highly customizable in-game avatars.
• In-game voice chat features: Specific to platforms that provide real-time voice communication among players.
• Blockchain-based winnings tracking: Used in platforms that utilize blockchain technology for transparency in game winnings and transactions.
• AI-based behavioral analysis: Some platforms might employ artificial intelligence to analyze player behavior. This type of analysis can be used for enhancing game recommendations or identifying problematic gaming patterns often seen in association with gambling and betting events.
• Cryptocurrency support: The ability to use cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum for financial transactions, appealing to a tech-savvy audience.
• Augmented reality (AR) integration: Offering games that incorporate AR technology for a more immersive gaming experience.
• Cross-platform progression: Allowing players to maintain their game progress and earnings across different devices and platforms.
• Personalized gaming news feed: A feature that provides players with customized news about games, tournaments, and updates based on their interests and past activities.
• Dynamic odds calculation: For betting platforms, offering real-time odds calculation based on ongoing game developments and player bets.
• Eco-friendly gaming rewards: Platforms might offer rewards or incentives for engaging in eco-friendly activities or making sustainable choices in games.
• Skill-based matchmaking: A system that matches players in competitions based on their skill levels rather than just random matchmaking.
• Interactive game streaming: Allowing players to stream their gameplay interactively, where viewers can influence game decisions or bets.
• Multilingual support with live translation: Platforms offering real-time language translation for global player interaction.
• Social impact gaming: Games or platforms that contribute a portion of their earnings to social causes or allow players to donate winnings to charities.
• Health and wellness monitoring: Integrating features that monitor player’s gaming time or provide reminders for breaks, promoting responsible gaming habits.

What are the risks in playing games for real money?

Gambling involves risks. The risk of losing cash you can’t afford to lose, the risk of becoming addicted, and the risk of both having adverse effects on you, your friends, and your family members. Those risks are part of the price you may have to pay if you can’t control your gambling activities.

Risk of losing

Most ways of trying to win money playing games involve risking money you already have. You might sometimes win, but the odds of winning consistently are not great. The exception is in skill-based gaming , where you can turn the odds in your favor by using your ability to get an edge. 

Addiction risks

Fortunately, many operators providing gambling services do make attempts to offer ways to contribute towards gambling addiction prevention. But it’s still really the players responsibility to ensure appropriate levels of protection.

Read our tips for responsible gambling and apply what you read before you make any attempt to deposit money and play – it’ll help any players to understand what’s at stake when problem gambling is involved, the signs to watch out for and how to avoid issues, and where to get help if you do get into any problems.

Another risk to note is that of security and safety. Fortunately, most licensed gaming operators take these subjects very seriously, ensuring your money is secure, and your privacy is safeguarded.  

For whichever game you choose and wherever you choose to play it, performing a thoughtful risk assessment is a sensible precaution. You want to be as sure as possible that you can keep losses to a manageable level and lessen any potential for addictive behaviours. 

You can lessen the risks with responsible gambling practices. You could also consider some other forms of engagement that present possibilities of making money from gaming.

What are the alternative ways of playing games to earn cash?

Besides playing all of the games we’ve covered,  there are other ways to make or earn extra money from gaming:

• You can bet on games to win real money. This form of betting is most applicable to a sports betting fan. You can visit an online sportsbook or bookmaker to wager or place a bet on sports events such as football matches, horse racing, or eSports.
• There are even ways to earn money by moving, known as move-to-earn games.  The first is Genopets, which has gameplay similar to the popular Pokemon hunting game.
• You can get hired by a games developer as a tester. In a game-testing scenario, what happens is that a video game developer needs testers to try out the gameplay, identify bugs, and give general feedback on the experience. This activity is known as a Playtest, and income for a tester from opportunities like these can be worth pursuing if you have the right skills. For example, my son was paid £50 in cash for testing games developed by Sony.
• There will be plenty of openings in the future for skilled video game journalists to earn good money by making a name for themselves. The e-sports industry is booming and will see growth for many years.

Forums and discussion boards

For discussion and forum-type threads on real money gaming, the best two resources will be Reddit and Quora.

Where can you watch real money gaming videos?

If you prefer visual resources, YouTube and Rumble offer extensive video content on cash gaming and real-money play. Thousands of videos cover various aspects, including game explanations by operators and game streamers showcasing their gameplay.

Videos include examples on game streaming, poker hands in cash games or tournaments, and casino favorites. Twitch is particularly popular for watching such gaming streams.

Which books have a real money games theme?

Books about real money gaming that make good reads are limited, although readers will find many written guides and tutorials on specific games like blackjack, roulette, slots, bingo, and many other gambling-type games. There are a few, however, about the overall subjects of gaming and money that are worth reading:

• The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier.
• The God Game by Gerald Suster.
• Money by Joe Cribb.

Summary

Real money gaming is a vast subject. To conclude, we’ve categorized six key ways of playing online games to win real money and 21 different types of cash prize games. That adds up to many opportunities to play real money games. and presents numerous ways to enjoy success with games that pay real cash.

Earning real money from gaming varies in difficulty and accessibility. Options range from skill-based to chance games, with some being free and others, like casino games, requiring a deposit and carrying the risk of loss.

Most games offering cash prizes are playable on mobile apps or desktop/laptop devices.

All these gaming options provide chances to win cash prizes, but success often relies on skill, specialization, or luck.

Remember to gamble responsibly, as the primary goal is entertainment with a potential bonus of winning. Be aware of the risks, including addiction and the likelihood of financial loss. Most players lose money, so manage your spending to avoid overpaying for this form of entertainment.

With careful play, whether you’re gambling or betting or playing for free, you might enjoy wins and fun moments.

Author: Steve Cross/realmoneygames