According to the recent data obtained from Statista, there are roughly 1.48 billion online gamers worldwide. This massive target market is ideal for affiliate marketers that want to target the online gaming niche. However, for various reasons, the online gaming world is one of the niches that many affiliate markets fail to look to.
There is a belief amongst many affiliates that it is tough to be an online affiliate marketer unless you are a hardcore gamer yourself. While it is a plus if you have knowledge of the gaming world, you can easily become an affiliate marketer in this niche by partnering with the best online games affiliate programs.
In this article, we will look at numerous online game affiliate programs to help you make informed decisions on the best ones to choose.
What is an Online Games Affiliate?
A gaming affiliate is a marketer that promotes games and other related accessories to gamers and earns money for this effort when the potential customer takes a specific action, such as buying a game or taking a membership. The gaming world is fast-growing and is subdivided into various categories each with its nuances and demographics.
A gaming affiliate can be a gamer, a content creator, a streamer, or anyone else that is interested in making money from marketing games and related gaming products. Gaming affiliates can earn very high commissions and with the rising popularity of gaming, the demand from gaming companies for quality gaming traffic is growing every day.
How to choose the best online gaming affiliate programs?
No matter the niche, be it online gaming, finance, insurance, Nutra, or anything else, the basic requirements of choosing an affiliate program are the same. Here are some of the key factors to consider when choosing the best online gaming affiliate programs:
- Reputation – Before anything else, the affiliate program you choose must be reputable, reliable, transparent, and honest. Even if the chosen program has the best offers and highest commissions, if you aren’t going to see the rewards for your efforts then they are not worth your time.
- Offers – The affiliate program should have a variety of offers for different GEOs and lots of creatives and marketing content for you to choose from.
- Tracking & Analytics – All affiliate networks claim their tracking and analytics are the best. Do your due diligence to confirm they track accurately.
- Cookie duration – We recommend using platforms with longer cookie duration because it gives you a higher chance of earning money from your referrals since you will be attributed the sale if a referrer eventually comes back and purchases an item.
- Commission rate and types – Check the commission rates and types offered by a gaming affiliate program before you sign up with them. It goes without saying that you want the highest payouts, but this must be viewed in conjunction with conversion rates or EPC values.
- Payout flexibility – Most affiliate programs prefer paying once or twice monthly or once you reach a certain threshold. You should consider whether the online gaming affiliate program’s payout schedule suits your business and cash flow.
- Payment Methods – Make sure that the program offers commission payouts via convenient payment methods so that you can access your money quickly and easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is it worthwhile to join online gaming affiliate programs?
Absolutely yes! As mentioned, there is a huge global gaming community that you can market to that is spending hundreds of billions of dollars each year on gaming and accessories. However, just like any other affiliate niche, you will need to have a solid plan and put in the effort. Whether you decide to focus on hardware or games, or other gaming products will depend on your preferences and target audience.
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Are online games affiliate programs suitable for streamers?
The one challenge that most streamers have is how to monetize their audience. The vast majority of gamers are not marketing professionals or experienced affiliates. With this in mind, there are many gaming affiliate programs with offers geared specifically towards streamers. Streamers can simply pick an offer and put up a banner or link on their stream without having to worry about things like SEO, PPC, media buying, etc. However, be sure to keep an eye on which banners and offers perform the best, so you can optimize your campaigns.
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Are gaming affiliate programs ideal for beginner affiliates and publishers?
Ideally, if you are just beginning your journey into the world of affiliate performance marketing and want to get into the gaming space, it will be to your advantage if you are a passionate gamer. The ability to speak gaming lingo and engage with your audience will go a long way to putting you on the path to success. Just like any other niche, you will need to have a clear strategy and plan if you want to succeed. If you love gaming and want to be a gaming affiliate, then go for it!
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Is there not too much competition in gaming for new affiliates?
Any niche worth pursuing will have loads of competition. In the world of affiliate marketing, competition should be viewed as an opportunity. Firstly, it means there is money to be made, and secondly, it allows you to see what others are doing and do it better. Pick a sub-niche to start and master your strategies and marketing. Once you achieve success, start to expand.
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What is better to promote as an affiliate? Video games or casino games?
While the term “gaming” is often used very loosely to describe online games, there obviously is a big difference between games for fun like Fortnite and gambling games like slots or blackjack. Both niches can be very lucrative but being an affiliate for gambling-related games involves a very different approach, plus there are plenty of regulations and laws you will need to abide by. The gambling space is extremely competitive, so if you are new to affiliate marketing, this might not be the best place to start. First become proficient as an affiliate in a simpler niche and then look at transitioning into the world of online casinos.
27 Best online game affiliate programs
There are hundreds of online video game affiliate programs currently available to marketers. However, we have picked the top 27 best online games affiliate programs, that appear to stand out above the crowd.
1. Gamefly Affiliate Program
GameFly is one of the leading online video game rental services in the United States. The platform allows gamers to enjoy a wide range of new and used games for PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series One, and Nintendo Switch. It provides these services while also eliminating the hassles of late fees or trips to the video store.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- Commission Junction
- Commission:
- $5-$15 per sign-up on the platform or any prepaid plan subscription
- 10% commission per sale of any new or used game, accessories, and other gaming collectibles
- Cookie Duration:
- 30 Days
2. Algo-Affiliates
Algo-Affiliates Network is one of the best affiliate programs in the world, and our coverage also includes online video games. What sets us apart is our attention to detail and the commitment to building partnerships that ensure everyone reaps the rewards. Our online gaming affiliate offers are growing, plus we also offer a huge selection of offers in various niches, including finance, home improvement, health & beauty, dating, and more.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- TUNE (HasOffers)
- Commission:
- $22.50 CPA
- Cookie Duration:
- 30 Days
3. Astro Gaming Affiliate Program
Astro Gaming is a category king in high-end video game audio. Astro is a division of Logitech, which certainly need no introduction. The company revolutionizes the way we play thanks to its increasing product line of wired and wireless headphones, gaming backpacks, earbuds, and apparel. It is one of the biggest retailers of headsets, VR headphones, mix amps, controls, gears, and other accessories for PC, Xbox, Mac, and PlayStation.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- Impact
- Commission:
- 4%-10% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 30 Days
4. NVIDIA
NVIDIA doesn’t need too much introduction due to its position as one of the leading tech companies in the world. The company is known for manufacturing chips used in several computers, gaming laptops, graphics cards, and a wide range of other devices. NVIDIA’s gaming affiliate program allows you to promote the company’s gaming and robotics products on your website or social platforms.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- Rakuten
- Commission:
- 2% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 45 Days
5. GameStop
If you are a gamer, then we don’t need to introduce GameStop to you. GameStop is a publicly listed company and one of the largest video game retailers in the United States. The company offers a wide range of new and used gaming products, including consoles, hardware accessories, collectibles, electronics, gadgets, and more. The GameStop games affiliate program offers you an excellent opportunity to make money promoting their products. However, be aware that GameStop’s cookie duration lasts for only a day.
Affiliate Network/Software:
- Rakuten
- Commission:
- 5% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 1 Day
6. Razer Affiliate Program
Razer is a well-known and recognized brand in the video gaming world. Razer is one of the world’s largest gamer-focused ecosystems. The company provides customers with a wide range of gaming hardware, software, and other related services. Some of its main product categories include PC, console, and mobile. On Razer, you can find products such as laptops, keyboards, chairs, speakers, gear, headsets, desktops, and components.
Affiliate Network/Software:
- Impact
- Commission:
- 3%-10% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 30 Days
7. Green Man Gaming
Another giant when it comes to gaming is Green Man Gaming. The company is on a mission to ensure that gaming gets to everyone. Green Man Gaming sells a wide range of PC and Xbox games at amazing prices. The company has more than 10,000 games available on its platform from over 1,300 publishers. Since it was launched over a decade ago, Green Man Gaming has become one of the biggest gaming shops online and has a very loyal customer base.
Green Man Gaming has two types of affiliate programs. The business affiliate program is for website owners, while the ambassador affiliate program is designed for affiliates that wish to use social media to promote games on the Green Man Gaming platform.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- Impact
- Commission:
- 5% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 30 Days
8. Logitech
Logitech is a multi-brand firm focused on designing products that connect people via music, gaming, computing, and video. Some of the leading Logitech brands include Logitech G, Ultimate Ears, Blue Microphones, and more. In addition to its software, the company also manufactures and sells mice, keyboards, speakers, headsets, streaming devices, video conference tools, and other innovative home and gaming products.
Affiliate Network/Software:
- Impact
- Commission:
- 4%-10% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 30 Days
9. Zygor
Zygor is unlike the other names on this list. While most of the gaming affiliate programs reviewed so far focus on selling online gaming software and hardware, Zygor provides in-game guides and strategies for gamers. The guides help gamers achieve more, quicker. Zygor is popular for providing guides and strategies for World of Warcraft. In addition to this, they also provide guides for the retail, classic, and burning crusade classic versions.
Affiliate Network/Software:
- ShareASale (Awin)
- Commission:
- 50% of sales
- Up to $42.99 monthly per subscription
- Cookie Duration:
- 60 Days
10. Twitch
When it comes to video game streaming, Twitch is a category king. Twitch is an interactive live-streaming platform for content in various areas, including gaming, sports, entertainment, music, and more. On Twitch, some of the famous categories include gaming, talk shows, music, food, sports, travel, and special events.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- Proprietary
- Commission:
- Earn revenue from subscriptions, ads, and bits
- Cookie Duration:
- N/A
11. CDKeys
CDKeys has earned a reputation as one of the most popular websites for purchasing gaming CD keys at bargain prices. The platform offers the best digital codes for the leading games and expansion packs for PlayStation Network, Xbox Live, Steam, Nintendo, Origin, iTunes, Google Play, and more. The company has been around for more than 20 years and is a leader in the online gaming world.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- In-house
- Commission:
- 3% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 30 days
12. Wargaming
So far, we have mostly talked about the referral programs offered by gaming hardware and software developers. If your interest is to be an affiliate for an online game developer and publisher, then Wargaming is one of the programs you should consider.
Wargaming is an industry-recognized online game publisher and developer. The company is a leader in the free-to-play Massive Multiplayer Online market and is behind some widely known games like World of Tanks, World of Warships, and World of Warplanes.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- In-house
- Commission:
- 3% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 30 Days
13. Fanatical Affiliate Program
Fanatical is a global digital entertainment and gaming marketplace. Similar to CDKeys, Fanatical allows gamers to gain access to officially licensed keys. As an affiliate marketer, you promote these genuine and officially licensed game keys on your website, Twitch, or YouTube.
A key advantage of Fanatical is that it has a direct relationship with over 1,000 major game developers and publishers, including SEGA, Warner Bros, and Bethesda. With more than 1.6 million users and an inventory of over 85 million authentic, fully licensed Steam game keys, Fanatical is one of the leading online video gaming affiliate programs.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- Commission Junction
- Commission:
- Up to 5% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 30 Days
14. Streamplay Affiliate Program
Streamplay is unlike the other programs we have discussed so far because it is a stream branding platform that provides premium graphics to gaming streamers. Streamers also gain access to downloadable and customizable graphics on the platform. Streamplay offers a wide range of packages, and you stand to make a lot of money if you can promote them on your website, YouTube, Twitch, or other social media platforms.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- In-house
- Commission:
- Up to 30% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 30 Days
15. Kinguin
Another leading digital marketplace for online video gamers is Kinguin. Similar to CDKeys, Kinguin offers users offers quick delivery of game keys 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Kinguin is a big player in the online gaming world. It has over 14 million active accounts and records more than 700,000 new transactions each month. Furthermore, the multi-tiered compensation structure on Kinguin makes it one of the leading gaming affiliate programs currently available.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- In-house
- Commission:
- 5%-10% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 30 Days
16. Epulze Affiliate Program
If you are into esports, then you should be familiar with the Epulze platform. The Epulze platform is home to the most popular esports games, including soccer, tennis, basketball, and more. As an affiliate, you will earn from games that participate in competitions and Stake-to-Play gaming.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- TUNE (HasOffers)
- Commission:
- 25% – 35% Revenue Share
- Cookie Duration:
- N/A
17. GeekBuying
GeekBuying is a leading eCommerce site that sells electronics and gadgets. Unlike the other programs mentioned in this article, they are more of a general eCommerce site. However, they do offer plenty in terms of hardware for games including speakers, headphones, consoles, keyboards, controllers, and much more. Something worse checking out are their range of handheld game consoles which are great for gamers who want a portable device.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- ShareASale
- Commission:
- 8% of Sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 30 Days
18. Microsoft Gaming Affiliate Program
Our list would not be complete without mentioning Microsoft. When it comes to gaming, Microsoft certainly is a name everyone knows, especially thanks to its super popular Xbox gaming console. Microsoft also caters to the PC market with its massive range of games. Gamers always want great deals on Xbox game passes and accessories, so as an online games affiliate, you can add some Xbox offers for your audience.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- Rakuten
- Commission:
- Up to 7% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 14 Days
19. Nerd or Die Affiliate Program
Nerd or Die started as a gaming tutorial platform but has since evolved to become a brand that makes designs for content creators. Its designs include alerts, gaming-compatible overlays, widgets, and stream themes. The primary goal of the platform is to assist gamers who take part in live streaming. Streamers on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch can use the various designs available from Nerd or Die.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- In-house
- Commission:
- Up to 30% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 30 Days
20. Leprestore Gaming Affiliate Program
Leprestore is unlike the other programs we have reviewed so far. This platform focuses on providing gaming boosting services. This means that professional players assist players to boost a gaming character or overcome a level in exchange for a fee. The company is known for providing boosting services, especially for games like Destiny 2, Apex Legends, and Wow Classic. While it is a sub-niche in the gaming world, you can make a lot of money by promoting the boosting services offered by Leprestore.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- ShareASale, CJ, FlexOffers
- Commission:
- 15% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 15 Days
21. Alienware
Back to hardware. However, this brand doesn’t need any introduction. If you are a gamer, then Alienware shouldn’t be an alien name to you. Alienware has been around since 1996 and is one of the most popular and powerful gaming computer brands in the world. The company was acquired by Dell some years ago, and you have to register as an affiliate on Dell before you can promote Alienware computers. Keep in mind that virtually every gamer wishes to own Alienware, and you can use the enthusiasm behind this hardware to promote it.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- Commission Junction
- Commission:
- 3% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 90 Days
22. Final Mouse Affiliate program
If you are not a gamer, you wouldn’t appreciate the importance of a top-quality mouse when gaming. True gamers understand their importance, and Final Mouse is one of the best places they purchase gaming mice. Final Mouse is known for manufacturing high-quality gaming mice. Gamers adore this brand due to its unique nature and limited edition.
Affiliate Network/Software:
- Refersion
- Commission:
- 25% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 30 Days
23. Acer Affiliate Program
Acer is a direct competitor to Dell and also provides computers, laptops, projectors, tablets, and more. Acer’s gaming division is called Predator and their range of Predator Helios gaming laptops is well known and appreciated amongst gamers. As an affiliate for online gaming affiliate programs, if you promote hardware on your site, then be sure to give your audience the option of an Acer gaming laptop.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- Commission Junction
- Commission:
- 4% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 14 Days
24. Origin PC affiliate program
We cannot talk about gaming PCs without mentioning Origin PC. Alongside Alienware, Origin PC manufactures some of the best gaming computers in the world. Origin PC’s gaming PC and laptops have sleek designs and are ideal for casual and pro gamers. It’s worth noting that Origin PC is owned by CORSAIR who are world-renowned for their PC components.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- Commission Junction
- Commission:
- 2% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 30 Days
25. ModdedZone affiliate program
When it comes to gaming controller modification, ModdedZone is one of the best in the world. ModdedZone is a popular custom gaming controller company that continues to set trends in the gaming space. ModdedZone alters controllers by also changing the motors or enabling features such as fast reload and adjustable rapid fire. ModdedZone’s adjustable and modified custom controllers are available for a wide range of consoles, including Xbox One, Xbox 360, PS3, and PS4.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- ShareASale
- Commission:
- Up to 10% of sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 90 Days
26. Into The AM Affiliate Program
The second gaming apparel company to make it into this list is Into The AM. The company is known for selling comfortable clothing and its unique designs are appreciated by gamers globally. Over the years, Into The AM has created licensed t-shirts for games such as Assassin’s Creed, Smite, God of War, World of Warcraft, and several others. If you are an affiliate with a large audience of gamers, then joining the Into The AM affiliate program would be an excellent idea.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- Pepperjam
- Commission:
- 10% of Sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 30 Days
27. Bose Partner Program
The final affiliate program on our list is Bose. Gamers and hardware devices are born for each other. If you are a gamer and considering a good noise-canceling headphone, then Bose is perhaps one of the best platforms for you to purchase one. Bose is one of the leading consumer electronic product manufacturers in the world, and they offer high-quality headphones and speakers. As a gamer, their high audio fidelity headphones are a must-have since they provide an amazing experience.
- Affiliate Network/Software:
- FlexOffers
- Commission:
- Up to 3% of Sales
- Cookie Duration:
- 30 Days
Final Thoughts
The online gaming world has nearly 1.5 billion people and is worth billions of dollars. As an affiliate marketer, you can make money promoting the products and services offered by hundreds of gaming brands. However, the above 27 are some of the best online video gaming affiliate programs available to you.
