22 Video Game Writing Jobs: Get Paid (& Free Games) to Review Video Games
From chopping up creatures with a chainsaw that also happens to be a gun in Gears of War to exploring the vast outer reaches of Skyrim, playing video games is a whole lot of fun.But did you know that you can turn your love of video games into a job?
No, we’re not talking about getting paid to play games or becoming a video game tester…
We’re talking about playing your favorite games and then writing about ’em.
There are tons of video game blogs and websites that hire writers and accept article submissions.
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So if you’ve got a few writing skills under your belt, you could actually get free games, access to gaming events, or even paid to write about video games!We’ve compiled 22 places where you can find freelance video game writing jobs, so you don’t have to spend your time scouring the internet for them yourself.
So check them out…
Note: Some of these sites don’t actually pay. However, if you are serious about making money as a video games writer, these sites are great platforms to get your work seen. Use the non-paying sites as a tool to build up your portfolio.
1. GameCrazy
GameCrazy is a gaming blog and news site featuring anything and everything related to video games.If you’ve got a penchant for video games and a good grasp of grammar, then you could become a regular contributor for the site.
Requirements
GameCrazy isn’t looking for one-off articles or guest posts – it’s looking for regular contributors to create content each month around video games and gaming news.According to the website you must:
- Be able to contribute at least one post per month.
- Create content that is 100% original.
- Have good grammar and an excellent grasp of the English language.
- Be willing to sign a legal agreement.
- Create fair content – the site says “no bashing, spreading rumors or defamation”.
Payment/Benefits
GameCrazy is a pretty popular gaming blog with a wide audience.GameCrazy compensates authors with an author’s bio and photo alongside every post. Your author bio can link to a URL of your choosing, including social media profiles, as long as it is a reputable domain.
Where to apply
If you want to apply to be a video game writer for GameCrazy, then you need to send an email to hollywoodvideocom1@gmail.com.The email should include either links to your published work or samples of your previous work if you don’t have any links.
2. Killer Guides
Killer Guides is a website that sells guides and strategy manuals for a wide range of MMO games, from Elder Scrolls to World of Warcraft.The site is looking for knowledgeable video game enthusiasts to write these guides for them.
Requirements
As an author at Killer Guides, you will create guides that the website sells. In addition to being knowledgeable and experienced with online games, you must also:- Have a great understanding of online games
- Be a skilled writer, who’s able to create content that’s a pleasure to read.
- Be comfortable working alongside an editor.
- Have the ability to work to deadlines.
Payment/Benefits
Killer Guides does not state how much it pays its authors, but it does state that you can contact them for more information.Need Extra Cash for Free? If you like getting paid for surveys, and are going to join only one site, I would recommend you choose Ipsos-iSay. Ipsos is the most fun and well-paying panel. Give it a try to see how you like it. It is free anyway!
Where to apply
If you meet the requirements, visit the page below, click the email address link and ask for more information about becoming an author.- More info at: http://www.killerguides.net/become-an-author
3. The Average Gamer
UK based website, The Average Gamer, is looking for writers to create content about video games.The website offers video game reviews, previous, culture, and a ton of other gaming-related content.
Requirements
The Average Gamer wants writers that can create a variety of posts, from short 250 word pieces to in-depth reviews and features. The website is aimed at the average gamer, as its name suggests, so it wants honest opinions on games.In particular, the site is currently looking for people that can write about:
- Sports games
- Browser games
- Online multiplayer
- First person shooters
- Fighting games
- Puzzle games
- Family games
- Real-time strategy
Payment/Benefits
Currently, The Average Gamer doesn’t offer payment to its writers. It does, however, send you games to review for free, which you get to keep.Where to Apply
If you want to become a writer for The Average Gamer, then you need to fill out the contact form on this page. You need to let the site know what type of games you’d like to write about.You can also contact them on Twitter at @Weefz.
- More info at: http://www.theaveragegamer.com/2010/10/09/write-for-us
4. That VideoGame Blog
That VideoGame Blog is a website that offers unbiased game and tech reviews. If you fit the site’s requirements, you can become a regular contributor for the platform.Requirements
According to That VideoGame Blog, you need to ensure that you have the time, energy and willpower to contribute to the site on a regular basis.Anyone interested in video games can apply for a position. Currently, That VideoGame Blog offers two roles, each with its own responsibilities:
- Daily Writer: As a daily writer at That VideoGame Blog, you have to create at least one post per day, Monday to Friday, including news posts.
- Part Time Writer: As one of the site’s part-time writers, you need to contribute at least two articles per week.
Type of payment to be expected
That VideoGame Blog doesn’t pay you to write, but writers that contribute frequently can receive review copies of games, and may even get to attend events.Where to apply
Via the contact form on this page or by email at admin@thatvideogameblog.com, send the following information about yourself:- Your age (you must be at least 18 years old to contribute to the site.)
- Your full name.
- The position you’re interested in.
- The country and city you live in.
- A few lines about yourself.
5. Epica Games
Video gaming blog Epica Games is looking for video game writers to contribute.The site is looking for a wide variety of blog posts, game reviews and player guides.
Requirements
Currently, the site is looking for guest posts. From beginners to seasoned professionals, Epica Games accepts contributions from a wide variety of writers.It’s looking for content, like video game reviews, walkthroughs, and top player tips.
Here are the requirements for guest post contributors:
- You must be able to submit original and interesting gaming related content.
- Include solely relevant and useful links in your work.
- Your work must be high quality.
Payment/Benefits
Epica Games is another platform that doesn’t state how it’s writers are compensated, which is a little frustrating. Again, if you’re interested in contributing to the site, then don’t be afraid to ask how you’ll be paid.Where to apply
If you’re interested in submitting a guest post, then you’ll need to fill out the form on this page. Epica Games is one of those sites where you upload a full guest post, rather than a pitch.Make sure you check out the content that’s already published on Epica Games so that you can an idea of the type of posts the site is looking for.
Oddly enough, Epica Games allows you to submit guest posts in a few different ways:
- If you have a 1000 plus word article, you can submit it for free, but it takes 30 to 45 days to respond.
- Or, if you’ve got a “very high quality” article that’s over 1500 words, then you can choose the “free plus” option, and the post will be uploaded within 48 hours.
- The oddest option, however, is the premium option – with this you have to pay $45 to upload a 1000 plus word and you get benefits, like featured status. It’s should go without saying, but never pay to contribute to a site.
- More info at: http://epicagames.com/write-for-us/
6. Gaming Debugged
Gaming debugged is a gaming blog that offers content on mainstream and indie games. It also features content on game design and development, as well gaming-related news.It’s owned by graphic designer and indie game designer and developer Ian Garstang.
If you’re looking to become a video game writer, then you should definitely consider contributing to Gaming Debugged. It’s a reputable website, which gets thousands of readers each month.
Requirements
Gaming Debugged accepts guest posts from writers. So if you think you’ve got a post for the site, then consider submitting a guest post. There are a few requirements for guest submissions, including:- All articles must be coherent and useful, interesting, funny or informative.
- Posts must be a minimum of 400 words – but bigger posts are better.
- If possible, include a 620px x 350px image with your post – this is optional, but preferred.
- General Gaming
- Game Design
- Game Development
- Games Industry News
- Social media and marketing for gamers
- Game Development tips and advice
- Game Marketing tips and advice
- Retro Gaming
- Online Gaming
- Cloud Gaming
Payment/Benefits
Gaming Debugged is yet another gaming blog that doesn’t list payments or benefits for contributors. So you should definitely ask the site owner about compensation before you submit any content.Where to apply
If you’d like to contribute to Gaming Debugged, then send a message to the following email; info@debugdesign.com.- More info at: http://www.gamingdebugged.com/write-for-us/
7. Elite Gamer
Elite Gamer is a website that features game reviews, news, previews, tips and a plethora of other gaming-related content.Requirements
The site is looking for writers that can contribute on a part-time or full-time basis. You must be at least 18 years old to contribute and be a video game enthusiast.Payment/Benefits
Elite Gamer is yet another gaming site that doesn’t state what it pays its writers, so make sure you ask about payment or benefits before you submit any work.Where to apply
To contribute to Elite Gamer, send an email to info@elitegamer.ie, which includes your age, the position you’re interested in, a bit about you and the country you live in.You can also send a message through this contact form.
- More info at: https://elitegamer.ie/write-for-us/
8. What Culture
What Culture is a popular blog that covers movies, music, TV, comics, and gaming. It’s a trustworthy, reputable site that writers could really benefit from getting a byline on. Currently, What Culture accepts article pitches from writers.Requirements
As a contributor at What Culture, you need to create quality content that caters to the site’s audience. According to What Culture, list-driven articles are highly sought after, but it will accept news content and video submissions too.What Culture states that list articles should be at least 1,000 words
Anyone can contribute to What Culture, as the site doesn’t require its contributors to have any writing experience or qualifications.
This means that if you’re just starting out as a video game blog writer, What Culture could be a great place to build your portfolio.
While qualifications and experience aren’t necessary, contributors do need to:
- Be creative
- Have an eye for detail
- Be passionate about creating content
- Keep up with trends
Payment/Benefits
You’ll earn $0.50 per 1,000 views for the duration of the month that the article was published and 6 days of the next month.If you contribute to What Culture, you get paid via PayPal and your monthly earnings will be paid out on the 7th of the next month.
Where to Apply
Simply visit create.whatculture.com and apply to become one of the site’s contributors. Once you’re set up as a contributor, you can pitch articles as often as you’d like.- More info at: http://whatculture.com/write-for-us
9. Avgjoegeek.net
Avgjoegeek.net is a website that offers how-to articles, tips, and reviews for WordPress and games. Currently, the site accepts contributions from writers.Requirements
The site is looking for guest articles on gaming, technology or blogging. Guest articles should be between 500 to 1500 words. Posts must not contain any affiliate links.You can only contribute an article to Avgjoegeek.net if you are a blog owner or own a website.
Payment/Benefits
Avgjoegeek.net doesn’t state whether writers are paid for their contributions.Where to apply
Visit the page below and fill out the contact form to ask about contributing to the site.You can find out more details about the review and article approval process on that same page too.
- More info at: http://avgjoegeek.net/guest-posting/
10. Retronuke
Retronuke is a gaming blog that focuses on pixelated and indie games. The website accepts articles from a variety of websites.Where to apply
Retronuke doesn’t provide many details about its requirements – but it does state that you can send an email, including your contact information to retronukeblog@gmail.com, and the site’s team will work to get you set up.- More info at: http://retronuke.com/write-about-video-games/
11. DoubleUpGaming
DoubleUpGaming provides video game news, tips, and reviews. The site is looking for freelance writers to contribute blog posts.Requirements
DoubleUpGaming is looking for fresh content that suits their blog. If you want to write for DoubleUpGaming, your articles must be at least 400 words, follow basic spelling and grammar rules, and fit in with the site’s current content.Freelance writers are expected to contribute at least one to two articles every month.
Payment/Benefits
DoubleUpGaming states that it can’t currently pay its writers, so all positions are volunteer-based.But you do get some benefits, like:
- The ability to attend gaming events.
- An opportunity to work with the blog’s network of contacts in the video game industry.
- The opportunity to receive games for review that aren’t on sale yet
- Getting the chance to build your portfolio and get your content distributed around the Internet.
Where to apply
If you want to write for DoubleUpGaming, then you need to send an email to editor@doubleupgaming.com, which must contain the information specified on their guidelines page.- More info at: http://doubleupgaming.com/write-for-us/
12. NZGamer
NZGamer features video game-related reviews, previews and news, as well as interviews. If you’re interested in a career as a video game writer, then it’s definitely a platform that you should check out.Requirements
Currently, NZGamer is looking for writers to create video game reviews. It’s looking for content that is:- Concise
- Comprehensive
- Well-written
Payment/Benefits
Currently, NZGamer doesn’t offer paid writing positions, but there are other benefits:- You get to build your portfolio
- Your reviews will be read by the site’s large, global audience
- You get free games to review.
Where to apply
To apply or a position at NZGamer, you need to write a sample article that the editor will review to see what you’re capable of.You should read the requirements for sample submissions, which you can view at the bottom of their Write for Us page (link below) before you submit your application.
Once you’ve written your example article, then you need to send it via email to writeforus@nzgamer.com. The email should also include a bit about yourself, like who you are, your gaming/writing experience and why you want to write for NZGamer.
- More info at: http://www.gamingdebugged.com/write-for-us/
13. Den of Geek
Den of Geek is a website that covers gaming news and offers reviews of cult TV, movies, games, and comics.Requirements
Den of Geek is looking for gaming writers who follow the latest gaming news and announcements. According to the site, it’s looking for “smart, timely editorial content” related to video games.The site prefers writers that have had their work published online.
Payment/Benefits
Currently, Den of Geek doesn’t state how, or if, it pays its writers or what types of other benefits you get from contributing to the site.Where to apply
If you want to write for Den of Geek, then you need to send two samples of gaming editorial that you’ve written to denofgeeksubmit@gmail.com.You also need to send in links to three examples of “cool gaming editorial” that you’ve found on the internet.
- More info at: http://www.denofgeek.com/us/games/gaming-writer/231140/write-for-us-experienced-video-gaming-writer-sought
14. The Game Druid
The Game Druid is a website that covers, movies, TV shows, comic books, action figures, tech, and, of course, video games.If you’re looking to get a start as a video game blog writer, then you should consider working with The Game Druid.
Requirements
The Game Druid states that it’s looking for “credible and sincere writers” who are passionate about gaming. It accepts guest posts on a variety of game-related topics. But, the site suggests that you view the published posts on The Game Druid to get an idea of what types of articles it’s looking for.There are guidelines for guest posts.
Here are just a few of the requirements for guest posts:
- Posts must be entirely original.
- You cannot include affiliate links in your posts.
- Sponsored posts are not allowed.
- Posts must be at least 500 to 700 words, but no longer than 2500 words.
- Your post must match the style of other posts on the site.
Payment/Benefits
The Game Druid doesn’t pay writers, but you do get the chance to build your writing portfolio and get your content out in front of a large audience.Where to apply
To write for The Game Druid, you need to send an email about your guest post to contact@gamedruid.in.- More info at: http://www.gamedruid.in/write-us/
15. Ubergizmo
Ubergizmo is another site you should check out if you want to write about video games. The blog rarely accepts guest posts, but occasionally it does, so it’s worth checking out.Ubergizmo suggests that all writers looking to submit a guest post view the gaming posts published on the site, before they write anything.
Where to apply
If you have an idea for a guest post for Ubergizmo, visit this page and send your pitch.- More info at: http://www.ubergizmo.com/guest-posts/
16. Gamunation
Gamunation is a website that focuses on workarounds and solutions for PC and console game errors, bugs, crashes and other issues. It also covers game-related news and lists.Requirements
Gamunation is looking for writers to create content for its game blog. Specifically, the blog is looking for this type of content:- Latest game reviews
- Latest game news
- Gameplay guides
- Gaming tutorial guides
- Game-related top 10 lists
Payment/Benefits
Gamunation is one of few gaming websites that pays writers. If you contribute to the site, then you get 70% of the revenue that the article generates.Once you meet the $10 payment threshold, you’ll be paid via PayPal.
Also, Gamunation states that it attracts half a million page views each month and that it’s one of the top 100,000 websites in the world. So if your work gets published on there, then it’s going to be viewed by a huge audience.
If you are a game writer looking to further your career and build your portfolio, then putting an article on Gamunation is a good idea as it will help you get your name out there.
Where to apply
To contribute to Gamunation, send your details to admin@gamunation.com- More info at: http://gamunation.com/write-for-us/
17. The Escapist
The Escapist covers all aspects of the video gaming lifestyle. If you want to get the opportunity to build your name as a writer, then you should definitely consider contributing to the site.Requirements
The Escapist is looking for guest posts that are well-written and thoroughly researched. Unlike many other gaming blogs, which ask writers to submit completed, full guest articles, The Escapist requires you to send a pitch letter, proposing your article first.The pitch must be long enough to tell the editors whether it’s a going to fit the site, but concise too.
Payment/Benefits
The Escapist does pay writers, but it doesn’t state how much it pays. According to the Escapist, the rate you earn depends on your experience.Where to apply
If you have an idea for an article that you think would be well-suited to The Escapist, then you need to write a pitch and send it to pitches@escapistmag.com.The Escapist covers other topics aside from gaming, like “Movies and TV”, “Comics and Cosplay” and “Science and Tech”. So make sure that you specify which channel your pitch belongs to, “Video Games”.
- More info at: http://www.escapistmagazine.com/content/contact
18. TechSling
TechSling is a blog that’s a source of digital news and information. It also covers gaming. If you want to become a video game writer, then you should consider contributing an article to the site.Requirements
TechSling accepts guest posts that meet the following requirements:- Your post must be original
- All posts should be free from spelling errors and be coherent
- Articles should be at least 350 words
- Posts should be structured into paragraphs, and include subheadings that are properly formatted using mostly H2 and H3 tags.
Payment/Benefits
TechSling doesn’t state how it pays its writers if it does at all. However, writers do get an author bio at the bottom of their article.Where to apply
To start the process of submitting a guest post to TechSling, go to the page below and follow the instructions.- More info at: http://www.techsling.com/submit-article-to-blog/
19. Electro Kami
Electro Kami is a website that blogs about games, TV, tech, music, coding, film, web development, industry news, and current events.The blog accepts contributions from guest writers. Currently, Electro Kami doesn’t offer many details in terms of requirements for guest posters.
Where to apply
All you need to do if you’re interested in contributing is send an email to info@electrokami.com to inquire about guest posting.To get an idea of what type of gaming content the site is looking for, make sure you check out the gaming section.
- More info at: http://electrokami.com/contact/
20. Unigamesity
Unigamesity is another gaming blog that accepts guest articles.The website, which specializes in video game news, mobile gaming, tech and much more gaming-related content is looking for writers with strong professional opinions to create original articles.
Where to apply
If you’re interested in writing for the site, then send them a message showing your interest to contact@unigamesit.com, or use this contact form.- More info at: http://www.unigamesity.com/write-for-us/
21 Always Nintendo
Always Nintendo is a website that offers Nintendo News as well as Wii U and 3DS reviews and interviews. So, if you’ve got a particular interest in Nintendo games, then working with Always Nintendo can be a great choice for you.The role and responsibilities
Always Nintendo currently has a number of writing positions available, including:- News Reporter
- Game Reviewer
- Editorial/Feature Writer
Payment/Benefits
Always Nintendo doesn’t offer paid work opportunities, but it does offer other benefits.As a writer at Always Nintendo, you get review copies of games, and exposure for your writing.
Where to apply
If you want to work with Always Nintendo, then send an email containing the following information to contact@alwaysnintendo.com:- The name of the position you’re applying for.
- Your name, age, and location.
- Your Skype username.
- Details of your previous writing experience, if any, experience with WordPress and any other skills you have.
- A relevant writing sample that is at least 250 words long.
- A short summary of why the site should hire you.
- Anything else you’d like to add about yourself.
- More info at: http://alwaysnintendo.com/write-us/
22. Gamepur
Gamepur is a video game blog and online resource offering content on all aspects of gaming, including walkthroughs, tips, tutorials, reviews, previews, news, features, and guides.Gamepur is looking for writers to contribute to it blog.
Where to apply
If you’re interested in a position, then all you need to do is send an email to info@gamepur.com.This email should contain your full name, location, contact details, and the name of your blog or website if you own one, as well as details about any prior writing experience and the position you’re applying for.
Currently, Gamepur doesn’t offer many details about contributing, but you can find out about open positions by visiting the link below.
- More info at: http://www.gamepur.com/write-for-us