Apps That Pay You To Play Games – Top 27 Legit Apps 2025

Gaming has become more than just a way to pass time – it’s now a legitimate way to earn money.

With the rise of apps that pay you to play games, you can turn your favorite hobby into a small source of income.

These apps work by rewarding you with cash, gift cards, or points for downloading games, reaching certain levels, or competing in tournaments.

The concept is simple: companies pay these platforms to promote their games, and you get a share of that money for playing.

While you won’t get rich from these apps, they can help you earn some extra pocket money during your free time.

Some apps offer instant payouts starting from just $0.20, while others focus on competitive tournaments with bigger prizes.

Whether you’re looking for casual puzzle games or competitive skill-based challenges, there’s something for everyone.

From popular platforms like Swagbucks and Mistplay to newer options like Cash Giraffe and Testerup, the market is full of legitimate opportunities.

Apps That Pay You To Play Games

In this guide, we’ll explore the top 27 legitimate games that pay you to play in 2025.

We’ll cover how each app works, what types of games they offer, minimum payout requirements, and which ones are worth your time. Let’s dive into the world of profitable gaming!

We also shared Best Apps Like Dave for Financial Relief so try these apps as well.

Top 27 Legit Apps That Pay You To Play Games – Complete Overview

Freecash

Freecash stands out as one of the most versatile platforms for earning money through gaming. This popular rewards website doesn’t just focus on games – it offers multiple ways to earn, including surveys, app installations, and shopping rewards.

What makes Freecash special is its high-paying gaming offers. You can often earn $10 to $100+ by discovering new games and reaching specific milestones. The platform constantly adds new offers, so there’s always something fresh to try.

Key Features:

• Multiple reward options: PayPal money, gift cards, cryptocurrency, and gaming skins
• High-value offers: Some gaming tasks pay $50-100+
• Regular updates: New games and offers are added frequently
• Beginner-friendly: Easy to start earning right away

The platform works best when you complete offers after registration. Playing a new mobile game and answering some surveys can quickly get you to your first payout. However, you need to put in consistent effort to see meaningful earnings.

Bingo Cash

For Bingo enthusiasts with iPhones or Samsung devices, Bingo Cash offers an exciting way to turn your skills into cash. This app lets you compete in real-money Bingo tournaments against players worldwide.

The competitive format means prize pools can range from $20 to $50 or even higher. What sets this app apart is its tournament-style gameplay, where the highest scores and most Bingo calls determine winners.

Important Details:

• Entry fees required: Small fees to join tournaments
• State restrictions: Not available in AZ, IN, IA, LA, ME, SC, MT, WA
• Skill-based: Your Bingo abilities directly affect earnings
• Real cash prizes: Actual money, not just gift cards

This app works best for confident Bingo players who don’t mind paying entry fees for the chance at bigger rewards. If you’re new to competitive gaming apps, start with free practice games first.

Scrambly

Scrambly is a newer rewards platform that’s quickly gaining popularity for its generous gaming offers and extremely low cashout threshold. Available in the United States and Canada, this platform offers multiple earning methods.

The $1 minimum payout makes it one of the most accessible platforms for beginners. Some gaming offers pay $20 to $95 or more, making it potentially very profitable for dedicated users.

Standout Features:

• Ultra-low minimum: Cash out at just $1
• High-value offers: Many games pay $20-95+
• Multiple platforms: Both PC and mobile games are available
• New Android app: Earn on the go
• Regular additions: Fresh offers are added consistently

Scrambly works well for both casual gamers and those looking for higher-value opportunities. The combination of low minimums and high-paying offers makes it suitable for different earning goals.

Cash Giraffe

Cash Giraffe has become a favorite among Android users due to its incredibly low cashout requirement and user-friendly interface. With just $0.20 needed to cash out, you can start earning and withdrawing money almost immediately.

This app focuses on mobile game discovery, paying you to download, install, and play various games. The quick cashout feature means you can make money in one hour and likely withdraw your earnings the same day.

Why Users Love It:

• $0.20 minimum: Fastest way to see real money
• Quick earnings: Make money within an hour
• Regular updates: New games are added frequently
• Simple interface: Easy for beginners
• Android exclusive: Optimized for Android devices

Cash Giraffe is perfect for impatient earners who want to see quick results. It’s also great for testing the waters of gaming rewards without long-term commitment.

Testerup

Testerup targets serious gamers with its high-value offers that can pay $50 to $100+ for completing game milestones. Available on both Android and iOS, this platform offers hundreds of offers at any given time.

The app covers diverse game genres, including action, puzzle, trivia, base-builders, and card games. If you enjoy grinding through levels and don’t mind spending time on challenging games, Testerup can be quite profitable.

Key Advantages:

• High payouts: $50-100+ per completed offer
• Both platforms: iOS and Androi,d support
• Genre variety: Something for every gaming preference
• Direct payments: Pays straight to PayPal
• Extensive offers: Hundreds of opportunities available

Testerup works best for dedicated gamers willing to invest significant time in reaching game milestones. The higher payouts justify the extra effort required.

Swagbucks

Swagbucks remains one of the most established and trusted platforms in the rewards space. Beyond gaming, it offers surveys, video watching, and website testing opportunities.

The gaming section typically pays $5 to $20+ per completed offer. With a $5 sign-up bonus and $5 minimum for many gift cards, it’s easy to reach your first reward quickly.

Platform Benefits:

• Established reputation: Years of reliable payments
• Multiple earning methods: Not just gaming
• $5 sign-up bonus: Head start on earnings
• Low minimums: Many rewards start at $5
• Consistent offers: Regular new gaming opportunities

Swagbucks is ideal for diversified earners who want multiple income streams beyond just gaming. Its reputation makes it a safe choice for beginners.

Kashkick

Kashkick combines survey earning with gaming rewards, creating a hybrid platform popular in the United States. While surveys are the main focus, the gaming section offers $5 to $10+ payouts for completed offers.

The $10 minimum for PayPal cashouts is reasonable, and the platform works well for users who want to combine different earning methods.

Platform Features:

• Hybrid model: Surveys + gaming rewards
• Decent payouts: $5-10+ per gaming offer
• US-focused: Optimized for American users
• PayPal payments: Direct cash payments
• Multiple earning streams: Surveys and games together

Kashkick suits users who want steady earning opportunities from both surveys and gaming, rather than focusing solely on games.

Solitaire Cash

Solitaire Cash brings the classic card game into the competitive gaming arena. Players compete in speed-based tournaments with matching decks, making it purely about skill and quick thinking.

Prize pools range from a few dollars to $55+, with winners taking shares based on their tournament performance. The app pays real cash, not sweepstakes entries or points.

Game Mechanics:

• Speed-based: Fast, accurate play wins
• Matching decks: Fair competition for all players
• Tournament format: Multiple players compete simultaneously
• Cash prizes: Real money rewards
• Skill-dependent: Better players earn more

State Restrictions: Not available in AR, CT, DE, IN, LA, ME, and SD.

This app works best for experienced Solitaire players who are confident in their speed and accuracy. Entry fees mean you should only participate if you’re willing to risk the buy-in.

EarnStar

EarnStar is a brand new platform packed with great offers and diverse reward options. Available in multiple countries, including the US, Canada, and the  UK, it offers both surveys and gaming opportunities.

Surveys can pay upwards of $5, while gaming offers provide steady income for time spent playing and completing missions. The platform also offers a sign-up bonus for new members.

Platform Highlights:

• Global availability: Multiple countries supported
• High survey pay: Some surveys pay $5+
• Gaming missions: Earn for time played and objectives completed
• Sign-up bonus: Extra money for new users
• Multiple rewards: PayPal, Visa cards, gift cards

EarnStar appeals to international users seeking a combination of survey and gaming opportunities with competitive payouts.

HeyCash

HeyCash stands out for its global reach, operating in 40+ countries and offering extensive international support. The platform combines gaming rewards with surveys and various bonus offers.

With a $5 minimum cashout and quick processing, users can access their earnings relatively fast. The platform offers both PayPal cash and numerous gift card options.

Global Features:

• 40+ countries: Extensive international availability
• Quick cashouts: $5 minimum with fast processing
• Multiple rewards: PayPal cash and gift cards
• Survey integration: Additional earning opportunities
• Bonus offers: Sign-up and promotional bonuses

HeyCash is perfect for international users who have limited options with other US-focused platforms.

MyFreeApp

MyFreeApp focuses on app and game discovery, with some offers paying $45 or more. The platform’s $1 minimum cashout makes it extremely accessible for beginners.

The variety of cashout options includes PayPal cash and gift cards to major retailers like Amazon, Google Play, Apple, and Walmart.

Key Benefits:

• High-value offers: Some pay $45+
• $1 minimum: Ultra-low cashout threshold
• Multiple rewards: Cash and various gift cards
• Regular updates: New earning opportunities are added frequently
• Bonus code: Use “WEBMONKEY” for $5 bonus after earning $15

Pro Tip: The bonus code makes this platform even more attractive for new users looking to maximize early earnings.

Bubble Cash

Bubble Cash brings arcade-style gaming to the competitive app space. This iOS app features bubble-popping tournaments where winners can earn $5 to $50+ in real cash prizes.

The game requires small buy-in fees for tournaments, but also offers free practice games for skill development. It’s perfect for fans of classic arcade games.

Game Features:

• Arcade tournament style: Classic bubble-popping gameplay
• Real cash prizes: $5-50+ for winners
• Practice modes: Free games to improve skills
• iOS exclusive: Optimized for iPhone users
• Skill-based: Better players earn more

State Restrictions: Not available in AZ, IN, IA, LA, ME, SC, MT, and WA.

This app suits arcade game enthusiasts who enjoy competitive gameplay and are willing to pay entry fees for tournament participation.

Blitz Win Cash

Blitz Win Cash offers 10+ games in one app, providing incredible variety for competitive players. The iOS app includes popular games like Solitaire, puzzle games, pool, golf, and Bingo.

Tournament prizes range from several dollars to $45+, with PayPal payments ensuring you receive actual cash. The variety keeps the gaming experience fresh and engaging.

App Variety:

• 10+ games: Multiple options in one app
• Popular titles: Solitaire, pool, golf, Bingo, puzzles
• Tournament format: Competitive cash games
• PayPal payments: Direct cash transfers
• Entry fees: $1-2 to participate in tournaments

The game variety makes Blitz Win Cash ideal for versatile gamers who enjoy different types of challenges and competitive formats.

Super.com

Super.com takes a unique approach by combining gaming and surveys with financial services like coupons, cashback deals, and cash advances. While it requires a $15 monthly membership, the earning potential can reach $100+ per day.

The platform offers an all-in-one solution for users wanting to “supercharge” their finances through multiple income streams.

Platform Features:

• Multi-service platform: Gaming, surveys, financial services
• High earning potential: Up to $100+ daily
• Additional services: Coupons, cashback, cash advances
• Monthly membership: $15/month for full access
• Comprehensive approach: Multiple money-making methods

Super.com works best for serious earners willing to pay the monthly fee for access to multiple income streams and financial tools.

Rewarded Play

Rewarded Play excels in game variety, offering strategy, action, puzzle, card, and word games. This Android-only app, available in Canada and the United States, focuses purely on gift card rewards.

The $5 minimum for gift card redemption is reasonable, and the platform includes popular retailers like Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and Walmart.

Game Selection:

• Diverse genres: Strategy, action, puzzle, card, word games
• Android exclusive: Optimized for Android devices
• Gift card focus: No cash payments, only gift cards
• Popular retailers: Amazon, Target, Best Buy, Walmart
• $5 minimum: Reasonable redemption threshold

Rewarded Play suits Android users who prefer gift card rewards over cash payments and enjoy having multiple game genre options.

Mistplay

Mistplay has become the most popular Android gaming rewards app, setting the standard for the entire category. The platform offers a good mix of game genres, including strategy, card games, simulations, survival games, and puzzles.

The leveling system rewards both game progress and account advancement, with gift card options including Amazon, Best Buy, prepaid Visa cards, and Google Play credit.

Platform Standards:

• Most popular: Leading app in the category
• Genre variety: Strategy, card, simulation, survival, puzzles
• Dual leveling: Game progress and account advancement
• Major retailers: Amazon, Best Buy, Visa, Google Play
• Android exclusive: Optimized platform experience

Mistplay is perfect for Android users who want the most established platform with proven reliability and extensive game options.

WorldWinner

WorldWinner offers 20+ mini-games within a single iPhone app, providing exceptional variety. The platform includes classics like Bingo, Solitaire, Wheel of Fortune, and Scrabble Go.

Both free play and cash tournaments are available, with tournaments paying $5 to $55+ to top performers. Payment options include PayPal, Mastercard, and Apple Pay.

Game Variety:

• 20+ mini-games: Extensive selection in one app
• Classic titles: Bingo, Solitaire, Wheel of Fortune, Scrabble
• Dual modes: Free play and cash tournaments
• High payouts: $5-55+ for tournament winners
• Multiple payments: PayPal, Mastercard, Apple Pay

WorldWinner appeals to iPhone users who want maximum game variety and the option to play both casually and competitively.

InboxDollars

InboxDollars offers a Swagbucks-like experience with multiple earning methods, including surveys, video watching, shopping, barcode scanning, and gaming. The platform requires $10-15 to reach the first payout.

While gaming payouts are modest, the variety of earning methods prevents boredom and provides multiple income streams. New members receive a $5 sign-up bonus.

Platform Benefits:

• Multiple earning methods: Surveys, videos, shopping, gaming
• Variety prevents boredom: Different activities are available
• $5 sign-up bonus: Immediate earning boost
• Established platform: Reliable payment history
• $10-15 minimum: Reasonable first payout threshold

InboxDollars works well for diversified earners who want multiple ways to make money beyond just gaming.

Pool Payday

Pool Payday targets pool game enthusiasts with tournament-style competitive play. Prize pools frequently range from $5 to $65+, making it one of the more lucrative gaming apps available.

The app requires entry fees for tournament participation, and success depends heavily on your pool playing skills. It’s not suitable for users wanting no-deposit gaming.

Tournament Features:

• Pool-focused: Specialized for pool game fans
• High prizes: $5-65+ tournament payouts
• Skill-dependent: Better players earn significantly more
• Entry fees required: Not suitable for no-deposit gaming
• Competitive format: Tournament-style gameplay

State Restrictions: Not available in AR, CT, DE, IN, LA, ME, and SD.

Pool Payday is ideal for skilled pool players who enjoy competitive gaming and are comfortable with entry fee requirements.

Money Well

Money Well follows the Cash Giraffe model with app installation and mission completion rewards. The $0.50 PayPal minimum makes it accessible for quick cashouts.

Gift card options include Amazon, Best Buy, Sephora, Starbucks, and Uber Eats. Regular game additions ensure fresh earning opportunities.

App Benefits:

• $0.50 minimum: Very low cashout threshold
• Mission-based: Complete in-game objectives for rewards
• Popular gift cards: Amazon, Best Buy, Sephora, Starbucks, Uber Eats
• Regular updates: New games are added frequently
• Android focus: Optimized for Android devices

Money Well suits Android users who want quick access to earnings and prefer having multiple gift card options.

Big Buck Hunter

Big Buck Hunter brings the classic arcade experience to competitive mobile gaming. This skill-based game rewards accuracy and speed, with prize pools ranging from a few dollars to $55+.

The game requires small entry fees and pays directly to bank accounts or PayPal. Success depends entirely on your shooting accuracy and reaction time.

Arcade Features:

• Classic arcade style: Nostalgic shooting game experience
• Skill-based gameplay: Accuracy and speed determine success
• Variable prizes: A Few dollars to $55+, depending on performance
• Direct payments: Bank account or PayPal deposits
• Entry fees required: Small costs to participate

State Restrictions: Not available in AR, CT, DE, LA, and SD.

Big Buck Hunter appeals to arcade game fans who enjoy competitive shooting games and skill-based challenges.

Buff

Buff offers a unique passive earning approach by rewarding you for playing games you already enjoy. The platform supports both PC and mobile games with a focus on popular titles.

Partner games include CS:GO, League of Legends, PUBG, Dota 2, Minecraft, Apex Legends, and Valorant. You earn Buff coins automatically while playing these games.

Passive Earning:

• Automatic rewards: Earn while playing favorite games
• Popular titles: CS:GO, League of Legends, PUBG, Dota 2, Minecraft
• Both platforms: PC and mobile, support
• Buff coins system: Exchange for rewards
• Gift card focus: Steam games and in-game rewards

Buff is perfect for existing gamers who already play popular titles and want to earn rewards without changing their gaming habits.

Cashyy

Cashyy shares the same family as Cash Giraffe and Money Well, offering similar features with an ultra-low $0.20 PayPal minimum. The app covers multiple game genres, including action, adventure, puzzle, strategy, and word games.

Gift card options include Amazon, Best Buy, Starbucks, and Walmart, with redemption available after earning just a few dollars.

Family App Benefits:

• $0.20 minimum: Extremely low cashout threshold
• Multiple genres: Action, adventure, puzzle, strategy, word games
• Quick access: Fast PayPal payments
• Popular retailers: Amazon, Best Buy, Starbucks, Walmart
• Proven system: Same successful model as related apps

Cashyy works well for users familiar with Cash Giraffe or Money Well who want additional earning opportunities with the same reliable system.

Drop

Drop primarily focuses on shopping rewards but has added gaming features that compete with Mistplay. The app pays Drop points for reaching specific game levels, with some games offering $10-20 worth of points.

Shopping remains the main earning method, but the gaming addition provides extra earning opportunities for existing users.

Hybrid Features:

• Shopping focus: Primary earning through purchases
• Gaming addition: New feature competing with Mistplay
• Point system: Drop points redeemable for rewards
• Level-based: Reach specific game levels for points
• $10-20 games: Some offers provide substantial points

Drop suits existing shopping app users who want to add gaming rewards to their current earning strategy.

JustPlay

JustPlay stands out with its no minimum cashout policy and PayPal payments every three hours. This Android app provides immediate access to earnings without waiting periods.

The instant payout feature makes JustPlay unique in the gaming rewards space, though earning potential decreases as you complete available games.

Instant Features:

• No minimum: Cash out any amount earned
• Three-hour payments: PayPal payments every three hours
• Immediate access: No waiting for earnings
• Android exclusive: Optimized for Android devices
• Decreasing returns: Earnings slow after completing the game library

JustPlay is ideal for impatient earners who want immediate access to their gaming rewards without minimum thresholds or waiting periods.

PlaytestCloud Games

PlaytestCloud offers a professional approach to gaming rewards by paying users to test games in development. Sessions typically pay $9 for 15 minutes, making it one of the highest hourly rates available.

This is essentially a quality assurance job requiring detailed feedback about functionality, features, and overall game experience.

Professional Testing:

• $9 per 15-minute session: High hourly rate
• Game development focus: Test unreleased games
• Detailed feedback required: Quality assurance work
• Professional approach: More like a job than casual gaming
• PayPal payments: Direct cash payments

PlaytestCloud suits serious gamers who enjoy providing detailed feedback and want to earn professional rates for their time and expertise.

Skillz Games

Skillz operates as a gaming platform ecosystem hosting multiple competitive games. Popular titles include Blackout Bingo, Bingo Cash, Pool Payday, Bubble Cube 2, and 21 Blitz.

The platform focuses on competitive tournaments with real cash prizes, requiring entry fees but offering potentially substantial rewards for skilled players.

Platform Ecosystem:

• Multiple games: Blackout Bingo, Bingo Cash, Pool Payday, others
• Tournament focus: Competitive gameplay with cash prizes
• Entry fees required: Investment needed for tournament participation
• Skill-based rewards: Better players earn more money
• Established platform: Proven tournament system

Skillz appeals to competitive gamers who prefer tournament-style play and are comfortable with entry fees for the chance at larger prizes.

Are Apps That Pay You For Playing Games Legit?

The honest truth about gaming reward apps is that they are completely legitimate, but the earning potential is extremely low. These apps will never make you rich or cover significant expenses in your daily life.

Realistic Expectations:

• Small earnings: Expect $10-25 occasionally, not regular income
• Time investment: Significant time required for modest returns
• Legitimate platforms: Real companies paying real money
• Supplemental income: Best viewed as bonus money, not primary income
• Passive approach: Works best if you already enjoy mobile gaming

What Makes Them Work: Gaming reward apps operate on a simple business model. Game developers pay these platforms to promote their new games and increase downloads. A portion of that marketing money gets passed to users as rewards.

Best Use Cases: These apps work best as a passive side hustle for people who already spend time gaming on their phones. If you’re going to play mobile games anyway, you might as well earn a few dollars while doing it.

When to Avoid: If you don’t naturally enjoy mobile gaming, these apps probably aren’t worth your time. The hourly rate is typically very low, so they only make sense if you find the games genuinely entertaining.

Alternatives To Getting Paid To Play Games

If gaming apps don’t meet your income goals, there are many better alternatives for making money with your phone:

Survey Platforms:

• Branded Surveys: One of the highest-paying survey sites with $5 minimum cashout
• Prime Opinion: Fast payouts and good survey availability
• Toluna Influencers: Combines surveys with gaming elements

Gig Economy Apps:

• Uber Eats: Deliver food on your schedule
• DoorDash: Another popular food delivery option
• Instacart: Shop for groceries and earn money

Passive Income Apps:

• Nielsen Panel: Leading passive income app paying $60+ annually
• Sweatcoin: Get paid for walking and exercising
• Receipt scanning apps: Earn money from purchases you already make

Skills-Based Work:

• Freelance writing: Use your writing skills for higher pay
• Virtual assistance: Help businesses with administrative tasks
• Online tutoring: Teach subjects you know well

Why Consider Alternatives: The gig economy and freelance work typically offer much higher hourly rates than gaming apps. If your goal is serious income generation, these alternatives provide better earning potential with similar time investment.

Final Thoughts:

Apps that pay you to play games represent a fun but modest way to earn extra money during your free time. While they’re completely legitimate, it’s crucial to have realistic expectations about earnings.

Key Takeaways:

✓ Best for casual extra money – Perfect for earning $10-25 occasionally
✓ Legitimate platforms – Real companies paying real money
✓ Passive income potential – Especially if you already enjoy mobile gaming
✓ Low time commitment – Can fit into existing free time
✓ Variety of options – 27 different platforms to choose from

✗ Won’t replace income – Never expect significant earnings
✗ Time vs. money ratio – Often, low hourly rates
✗ Limited long-term potential – Earnings typically decrease over time

Best Strategy: Try 2-3 different apps to see which ones you enjoy most. Focus on platforms with low minimum payouts like Cash Giraffe ($0.20) or JustPlay (no minimum) to see quick results.

For serious income goals, consider combining gaming apps with higher-paying alternatives like gig work, freelancing, or survey platforms. This creates a diversified income strategy that maximizes your earning potential.

Remember, technology has made it easier than ever to monetize your hobbies. While gaming apps won’t make you wealthy, they can turn your entertainment time into a small but steady source of extra spending money.

– Important Disclaimer –

This article is for educational purposes only.

We cannot guarantee the performance, legitimacy, or continued availability of any apps mentioned.

Play these games at your own risk and never rely on them as your primary income source.

We strongly recommend developing valuable skills and pursuing traditional career opportunities for sustainable income.

We are not responsible for any financial losses, time wasted, or issues you may experience with these platforms.

Always read app terms and conditions before participating.