Live Streamer and Esports Player
19AI CAN DO19%moving to64%
THE DOOR, NOWB
THE DOOR, 20 YRSC
STARTING PAY£10,000 - £20,000
PHYSICAL MOATThe work is hands-on, in the real world. Software alone can't do it.
CAREERMASH (EN)FROM DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY →
Live Streamer and Esports Player
Live streamers and esports players compete in online games and broadcast themselves playing to audiences on platforms like Twitch or YouTube. Some make a career from winning tournaments or building a large following.
This job holds up well against AI
AI cannot yet do much of what this job actually involves, and the work is hands-on, in the real world. Software alone can't do it. That is about as safe as careers get right now, though it is still worth learning to use the tools well.
The role
As a live streamer or esports player, you play competitive video games at a high level, either competing in tournaments for prize money or streaming your gameplay to an online audience who watch and chat with you in real time. If you compete in esports, you train for hours every day to master your game, play in team tournaments with prize pools that can reach thousands of pounds, and build a reputation in the professional gaming world. If you stream, you play games live online, entertain your viewers, and earn money from subscriptions and donations to your channel.
This career sounds exciting, and for some people it is genuinely their job. But it is very competitive - thousands of people are trying to do the same thing, and most do not make enough money to live on. Success usually takes years of practice, natural talent, and some luck. You also need to manage the business side - taxes, sponsorships, equipment costs - and deal with online harassment. Many successful streamers also do other work to pay the bills while building their audience.
Daily responsibilities
- Stream your gameplay live online while chatting with viewers and answering their messages.
- Practise your main game for several hours to sharpen your skills and reactions.
- Review recordings of past matches to spot mistakes and work out how to improve.
- Post clips and updates on social media to grow your audience and keep followers engaged.
- Reply to emails from sponsors or brands and sort out any deals or collaborations.
- Check and update your equipment, such as your PC, microphone and streaming software.
- Keep track of your income, expenses and taxes from subscriptions, donations and sponsorships.
Does a degree help here?
A UK education offers you access to top-notch resources, networking opportunities, and industry insights that can help you stand out in the competitive gaming scene. Whether it's through gaming-related courses or business studies, you'll gain skills that can elevate your streaming and gaming career.