With the turn of the century, the means of entertainment and relaxation have been revolutionized. Video games, PC games, and console games have grown very in popularity. Better gaming systems, advanced micro-chips, and video enhancement and display cards will clearly indicate the improving game designs, mind blowing game ideas, and spectular levels of detail. Casual and hardcore gamers look for games that completely mesmerize them and draw them deer into the scenario of the game. Video gaming has become so popular that organizations have actually started offering money to video gamers.
A large number of hardware companies, software developers, and game promoters employ hardcore gamers having excellent skill in the games. These gamers are commonly referred to as Pro-gamers. Pro-gamers and even teams are employed on a contract basis to represent the employer at large gaming events and tournaments. Gamers are given a sponsorship deal and the employer pays for gaming practice sessions at cafes, provides personal computers and accessories, pays for travel and lodging expenses during tournaments and so on. Some of the common games that skilled gamers can be contracted for are Counter-Strike, Quake 3, Quake 4, Starcraft, Warcraft 3, FIFA, and so on. Gaming contests for these games are held through out the year all over the world. Mega gaming events are sponsored by multinational companies such as Intel, Pepsi, Coca Cola, and so on, and may involve cash prizes for up to $ 400,000 for the winners.
Another way of getting paid for video games is through video game testing. Large game developers and designers require reviews and feedback about a game before finally releasing it in the market. Game testers are experts that can provide a fair view and opinion about the quality of a game, its game play and over all storyline. Developers actually employ gamers to play their video games and assess them. Game testers are paid after they complete their contract.
In today's world, playing video games has become a viable career option.