Top 10 Play-to-Earn Games South Africans Are Using to Make Money

In recent years, play-to-earn (P2E) games have transformed gaming into a source of income. In South Africa, many gamers are now earning real money while enjoying their favorite games. With the rise of blockchain technology, cryptocurrency rewards, and in-game marketplaces, players can convert game achievements into cash.

This article explores the top 10 play-to-earn games South Africans are using to make money. We will discuss how each game works, earning strategies, potential income, and step-by-step instructions to get started. Whether you are a casual gamer or a professional looking for an additional income stream, this guide provides actionable insights for success.

Why Play-to-Earn Games Matter in South Africa

P2E games are not just entertainment—they are income opportunities.

• Supplementary income: Many South Africans earn extra money while gaming.

• Skill monetization: Gamers can profit from skills like strategy, speed, and teamwork.

• Global marketplace access: Earn rewards in cryptocurrency or sell in-game assets internationally.

• Flexible schedule: Play anytime, from anywhere, without strict hours.

• Future of gaming: Blockchain P2E games are expected to grow, offering new opportunities for South Africans.

Factors to Consider Before Starting Play-to-Earn Games

1. Initial investment: Some games require buying characters or assets to start earning.

2. Time commitment: Earnings often correlate with the time invested.

3. Game mechanics: Understand gameplay rules and strategies.

4. Payment methods: Check if the platform allows withdrawal in local currency or crypto.

5. Security: Use trustworthy wallets and platforms to avoid scams.

Knowing these factors ensures safer and more profitable gaming experiences.

Top 10 Play-to-Earn Games for South Africans

1. Axie Infinity

Overview: A blockchain-based game where players collect, breed, and battle creatures called Axies.

How to Earn:

• Battle with Axies in PvP or PvE modes to earn SLP (Smooth Love Potion).

• Breed Axies to sell new creatures in the marketplace.

• Complete daily quests for additional rewards.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Create a Ronin Wallet for cryptocurrency transactions.

2. Buy at least three Axies from the marketplace.

3. Start battling and earning SLP tokens.

4. Trade SLP or Axies for cryptocurrency and convert to ZAR.

Income Potential: R500–R20,000+ per month depending on time invested and skill.

2. The Sandbox

Overview: A virtual world where players create, own, and monetize gaming experiences using NFTs.

How to Earn:

• Build games, digital assets, or virtual land.

• Sell creations or rent virtual properties to other players.

• Participate in events or contests for rewards.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Set up a crypto wallet like MetaMask.

2. Purchase or rent virtual land in The Sandbox.

3. Create and list assets or games for sale.

4. Receive payment in SAND tokens, then convert to ZAR.

Income Potential: R1,000–R50,000+ depending on assets and creativity.

3. Decentraland

Overview: A blockchain-powered virtual world where players explore, build, and trade digital assets.

How to Earn:

• Own and sell virtual land parcels.

• Host events or open shops to sell NFTs.

• Participate in in-game contests for cryptocurrency rewards.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Create a crypto wallet (MetaMask) and connect to Decentraland.

2. Explore land options and purchase parcels.

3. Build digital experiences or assets for sale.

4. Collect MANA tokens and exchange for cash.

Income Potential: R1,500–R40,000+ per month

4. Splinterlands

Overview: A collectible card game where players battle monsters and earn cryptocurrency.

How to Earn:

• Battle other players to win DEC (Dark Energy Crystals).

• Buy, sell, or trade cards in the marketplace.

• Participate in tournaments for large prizes.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Register and create an account.

2. Buy a starter card pack.

3. Compete in daily battles to earn DEC.

4. Sell or trade cards for crypto and withdraw to ZAR.

Income Potential: R300–R15,000 per month

5. Zed Run

Overview: A digital horse racing game where players buy, breed, and race horses.

How to Earn:

• Race horses and earn cryptocurrency based on results.

• Breed and sell horses in the marketplace.

• Compete in tournaments for bigger rewards.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Create a crypto wallet and fund it.

2. Buy a racehorse on Zed Run.

3. Enter races and earn rewards.

4. Breed horses to sell or continue racing.

Income Potential: R500–R30,000+ per month

6. Alien Worlds

Overview: A space-themed game where players mine resources and complete missions.

How to Earn:

• Mine TLM (Trilium) tokens by completing tasks.

• Stake TLM to earn more rewards.

• Participate in missions and competitions.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Sign up and create a crypto wallet.

2. Choose a planet to mine resources.

3. Complete missions and collect TLM.

4. Stake or sell TLM for ZAR.

Income Potential: R200–R10,000+ per month

7. Lost Relics

Overview: An action RPG with loot-based rewards and NFT items.

How to Earn:

• Collect rare items and sell as NFTs.

• Complete missions and dungeon raids for rewards.

• Trade items in the marketplace for cryptocurrency.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Download and install Lost Relics.

2. Complete quests and collect NFT items.

3. List items for sale on NFT marketplaces.

4. Convert cryptocurrency earnings to ZAR.

Income Potential: R500–R20,000 per month

8. CryptoBlades

Overview: A battle game where players fight enemies and earn SKILL tokens.

How to Earn:

• Participate in battles to win SKILL tokens.

• Trade weapons and characters for cryptocurrency.

• Stake SKILL to earn more rewards.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Connect a crypto wallet and fund it.

2. Buy weapons and characters.

3. Fight in battles and earn SKILL tokens.

4. Convert SKILL to cash through exchanges.

Income Potential: R300–R15,000 per month

9. Town Star

Overview: A city-building game by Gala Games with cryptocurrency rewards.

How to Earn:

• Build and manage towns efficiently.

• Complete daily challenges to earn GALA tokens.

• Trade resources or items on the marketplace.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Register on Gala Games.

2. Build and manage your town.

3. Complete challenges and earn GALA tokens.

4. Sell tokens or assets for cash.

Income Potential: R500–R25,000+ per month

10. Axie Infinity Scholar Programs

Overview: Join Axie Infinity scholarship programs to earn without initial investment.

How to Earn:

• Play using provided Axies and share earnings with manager.

• Complete battles and quests to generate SLP.

• Collect a portion of your rewards as income.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Apply for a scholarship program.

2. Use the provided Axies to battle and complete tasks.

3. Receive a share of SLP earnings.

4. Convert to cash using cryptocurrency exchanges.

Income Potential: R200–R15,000 per month

Comparison Table – Top Play-to-Earn Games in South Africa

FAQs – Play-to-Earn Games in South Africa

1. Can South Africans really earn money playing P2E games?
   Yes, many players earn monthly income through gameplay and NFT sales.

2. Do I need cryptocurrency knowledge?
   Basic knowledge is recommended for wallet setup and cash conversion.

3. Which games pay the most?
   The Sandbox and Decentraland offer high earning potential for creative players.

4. Do I need to invest money upfront?
   Some games require initial investment, but scholarship programs like Axie Infinity Scholars reduce risk.

5. Can I play on mobile or PC?
   Most P2E games support PC; some also have mobile versions.

6. Are earnings taxable in South Africa?
   Yes, cryptocurrency and P2E income should be reported to SARS if above tax threshold.

7. How fast can I start earning?
   Some games allow earnings immediately, depending on time invested and learning curve.

8. Can I play part-time?
   Yes, all games allow flexible schedules.

9. Are there risks involved?
   Yes, market fluctuations, crypto volatility, and scams are possible. Use reputable platforms.

10. Do I need high-end gaming hardware?
    Most blockchain-based P2E games require standard PC or mobile with internet access.

Conclusion / Call to Action

Play-to-earn games are revolutionizing how South Africans earn money online. From collectible card battles to virtual world creation, these platforms allow players to convert time and skills into real income.

Start by choosing a game that matches your interest and skill level, set up your wallet, and begin playing. With consistency, strategy, and smart investment, South Africans can generate substantial earnings while enjoying gaming.

Gaming is no longer just fun—it can be a sustainable income stream if approached carefully and strategically.