10 Side Hustles That Actually Work for Games Players

Listen up. If you’re relying solely on poker for your income, you’re playing a dangerous game. Don’t get me wrong – poker’s great (if you play on the right sites). But even the best players hit downswings, and that’s when you need a backup plan. I’m not talking about getting a 9-to-5 job (ugh). I’m talking about side hustles that actually make sense for poker players.

Content Creation: Your Experience is Worth Something

Real talk: if you’ve put in serious hours at the tables, you’ve got stories and knowledge that people will pay for.

Got a unique perspective? Start a YouTube channel. Crush online? Stream on Twitch. Just remember – this isn’t about showing off. It’s about providing value. The money comes when you build an audience that trusts your insights.

Quick tip: Don’t try to be the next Doug Polk overnight. Pick one platform and crush it before expanding.

Coaching: Get Paid for What You Already Know

If you’re consistently winning at your stakes, there’s someone out there willing to pay for your knowledge. No joke – some coaches charge $200+ per hour. Not bad for talking about a game you love, right?

Start small:

• Offer a few free sessions to build testimonials
• Record your sessions (with permission) to create content
• Focus on one specific area (tournament strategy, mental game, whatever you’re best at)

Writing for Poker Sites: Easy Money if You Can Write

Here’s something most people don’t know: poker sites are desperate for content from actual players. If you can string sentences together and know your stuff, there’s money to be made here.

The best part? You can do this between sessions or during downswings. And unlike grinding micro stakes, the pay is guaranteed.

Crypto & NFTs: Use Your Poker Brain

You’re already comfortable with variance and bankroll management. Guess what? Those skills translate perfectly to crypto trading. Just don’t be an idiot about it – treat it like poker:

• Never risk more than you can afford to lose
• Study before you jump in
• Keep detailed records
• Stay emotionally detached

ESports: Your Edge Transfers

Got gaming skills? ESports are blowing up, and poker players often crush it because they understand:

• Probability
• Risk management
• Mental game
• Strategic thinking

Plus, the communities often overlap. Your poker network might already be into competitive gaming.

Affiliate Marketing: The Smart Way

Everyone and their grandmother is doing affiliate marketing these days, but poker players have a unique advantage: you actually know what you’re talking about.

Don’t be one of those sketchy affiliates pushing garbage deals. Build trust by:

• Only promoting sites you actually use
• Being honest about the downsides
• Providing real value in your content
• Building a genuine community

Trading: Not As Different As You Think

If you can handle poker variance, you can handle trading. The skills are surprisingly similar:

• Position sizing
• Risk management
• Reading patterns
• Emotional control

Just remember: the market doesn’t care about your ego any more than the poker tables do.

Dealing: The Inside Track

Want steady cash and poker insights? Dealing might be your jam. The benefits are legit:

• Guaranteed hourly rate + tips
• Watch how winning players operate
• Network with high rollers
• Flexible schedules (perfect for your poker grind)

Create Poker Products: Think Different

See a problem in poker? Solve it and get paid. Whether it’s:

• A new tracking app
• Custom gear
• Training tools
• Whatever players need

The poker world always needs innovation. Be the one to provide it.

Staking: Put Your Money to Work

Got a solid bankroll? Put some of it to work backing other players. But listen up – this isn’t charity:

• Vet your horses carefully
• Set clear terms upfront
• Keep detailed records
• Maintain professional relationships

Making It All Work

Here’s the real secret to running successful side hustles while playing poker: Don’t half-ass multiple things. Pick one or two that play to your strengths and crush them.

And remember why you’re doing this: it’s not just about the money. It’s about creating stability so you can play your best game without worrying about paying rent.

The Bottom Line

Poker’s a tough way to make an easy living, and pure poker players are a dying breed. The smart ones diversify. They build multiple income streams that complement each other.

Pick your lane, put in the work, and create something sustainable. Your bankroll (and future self) will thank you.

Remember: The goal isn’t to quit poker – it’s to give yourself options. When you’re not desperate for a win, that’s when you play your best game.

Now get out there and make it happen. And hey – if anyone tells you poker players can’t succeed in business, just smile. We know better.