What Professional gamers do:

A professional gamer, or pro gamer, plays video games full time and plays in competitions or tournaments to win prize money.

Most pro gamers start out as individuals specialising in specific games. They work towards gaining sponsors or advertisers when they play, and sometimes join teams that compete on the biggest stages, in events, and tournaments.

What Professional gamers are good at:

Specialising in a specific game.

Analysing game mechanics to understand best methods of playing to a high level.

Playing over long hours to practice and master strategies, tactics, and skills (like hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes).

Working in a team and showing great people and communication skills.

Working effectively in fast-paced team environments.

Solving problems as they come.

How to become a Professional gamer:

Most people who become Professional Players/Gamers don’t have or need degrees, but only their passion and skill as gamers.

It’s also helpful to network and meet like-minded gamers who can help you become becoming a professional gamer.

There are hundreds of tips, tutorials, or guides online from pro gamers you can use to improve in your chosen game or games, and better understand what it takes to be a top pro pro gamer.

“First, Master the game’s mechanics. Concentrate on learning game-specific skills until they become ingrained in your muscle memory. Whether that’s last-hitting in a MOBA, aiming with accuracy in an FPS, or maximizing actions-per-minute in an RTS, these skills never lose their importance. Pro players practice mechanics tirelessly to stay sharp and make minute improvements, but players who are just starting out should improve dramatically with practice.”

‘How to Become a Pro Gamer’ - Intel

How much you could earn:

The national average salary for a Professional Gamer is £35,000 per year in the UK.

The lowest salary averages around £17,000 per year. However, successful pro gamers can earn prize money, commissions, and sponsorships from major brands and tournaments.

According to British Esports, some of the world’s best pro gamers have earnt more than $1 million in winnings. Those of good skill can expect upwards of £100,000 as winnings. (Source: Britishesports.com)