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Cape Town - Professional gamers can earn big bucks and as the industry becomes a spectator sport, there is an opportunity to make serious cash playing the games you love.
According to GoExplore.net, a curation site from the IT security software provider Eset, in the last year alone, five gamers earned more than R11m.
The attraction of games as a spectator sport has also seen sponsors eager to reach new audiences and successful gamers can expect to be treated as sporting celebrities.
And opportunities are not only reserved for elite gamers: The industry is opening for a range of skills, including talent scouts, management teams, publicists and event managers.
While pro gaming is a small sport in SA, you can already achieve national colours as a gamer, and this should bring you to the attention of top teams where you may extend your career.
In SA, you may typically specialise in a range of online games to become a professional gamer. Titles include Dota 2, League of Legends, Battlefield and Call of Duty series.
So what does it take to be an elite gamer and earn some serious cash? Here are the top tips from pro gamers:
1. Attitude is key
When you're playing with pro players, put your best self forward. Try hard, communicate well, and show critical thinking. If you’re playing consistently with pro players in games, you’ll develop a reputation. Your best chance of being recognised is if they think highly of you.
2. Sacrifices must be made
Being a pro player is more of a lifestyle than an occupation. You’ll have a practice schedule, sponsor obligations, and may even be required to move to live in a team house. Be prepared to give it your all if this is truly your desired profession.
3. Focus on yourself, not others
The best of the best will always rise to the top. Always look to how you can improve yourself to get better. You can’t control your teammates’ actions. The best of the best are always hyper-focused on how they can improve, not blaming others for their mistakes.
4. Be prepared for a mental shift
It’s very different to play the game as a release from responsibilities as opposed to it being your main responsibility. Lots of pro players can burn out because of this. If you want to be around for a while, make sure you understand that this is like working 60 - 80 hours per week.
5. Learn from the best
Study those who are already at that level. Study the top players and analyse what they do that separates them from the rest. An understanding of this and how to incorporate it into your own play is essential.
Check out this video of MWEB's Dennis Kurtz discussing gaming in SA:
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