The Top Gaming Affiliate Programs You Need to Check Out

gaming affiliate programs

There are a plethora of ways to make money online. But some will often overlook opportunities such as gaming affiliate programs.

In this post, we’ll discuss what gaming affiliates are and how to capitalize on a new source of website traffic.

What Are Gaming Affiliate Programs?

Gaming affiliate programs are a way for niche websites to earn extra money by directing traffic to a third party gaming site.

These websites offer a wide variety of games and will pay you for each referral. With more and more people engaging in online gaming, this niche has the potential for high returns.

Affiliate Games and Programs

Gaming affiliate programs include a wide variety of gaming options. The most basic games available through these programs are called “casual games.” This term refers to games which are relatively simple and don’t require much of the user’s time.

However, the types of games available are extensive and the games you choose should reflect the niche your website targets. For example, if your website caters to a gambling niche, you would want to select a program like the one offered by Big Tease Bingo instead of role-playing games.

Additionally, there is a wide range of gaming affiliate programs available from many different websites. Some affiliate programs supplement the gaming console experience, while others, like the previously mentioned casual gaming, relies on the online gaming community.

Some of the top affiliate gaming programs include:

  • GameFly – Features over 8,000 video game titles for a variety of gaming systems. The Commission is based on game sales and referrals.
  • GamePal – This site offers services catering to online multiplayer games, specifically the buying and selling of different in-game features. Commission rates vary but can be as high as 25 percent.
  • GSN Games – GSN focuses on online casual gaming and features well-known titles. Commission rates of up to 35 percent make this program very attractive.

Targeting Keywords

The biggest challenge to capitalizing on affiliate programs is targeting the correct keywords for your website.

Online games are a niche market. As such, try to avoid broad terms like “online games” in favor of keywords that target specific games.

Long tail keywords that are detailed might bring less traffic, but the keywords will target the gamers you want on your website.

Getting Players to Your Website

As previously mentioned, using specific keywords is a terrific way to bring gamers to your website. Unfortunately, though, hitting the right keyword isn’t always enough. To make the most of the affiliate programs, try the following methods:

Blogs and Forums

Online gaming blogs and forums are great places to learn about your niche and the people you’re trying to target. Also, in forums, you’re able to interact with gamers, and maybe offer recommendations. Furthermore, these sites are good resources for conducting keyword research.

Link Building

Link building is considered a best practice in the world of SEO, and it applies to making the most of affiliate programs, as well. Ensure that the links you add to your website are indexed correctly.

Content Strategy

Another area of affiliate marketing that shouldn’t be overlooked is a content strategy. Providing your visitors with games isn’t enough if you want your website to rank well on search results.

Consider adding more content to your website that provides users with more information about your niche. Game reviews, tips and tricks, and guides are all effective.

Finding the Right Affiliate Program

There is an overabundance of affiliate gaming programs available, so take your time when selecting the program that’s right for your website. Also, carefully review the terms, as well as the rates, to determine which program will earn you the most money.

Do you have experience with an online gaming affiliate marketing program? We’d love to hear about it! Share your story with us in the comment section below!