Can You Make a Living Playing Video Games? Guide

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Ever dreamed of ditching the 9-to-5 and leveling up your life by doing what you love? Well, the exciting world of esports offers a real chance to turn your passion into profit, making the question “can you make a living playing video games?” more relevant than ever! Platforms like Twitch provide amazing opportunities for gamers to showcase their skills and build a dedicated following. Top players, such as the legendary Ninja, have proven that with dedication and skill, gaming can be a lucrative career path. This guide is your ultimate walkthrough, offering insights and strategies to navigate the gaming landscape and discover if a career in professional gaming is the right quest for you!

Game On! Can You Really Make a Living Playing Video Games?

Welcome to the electrifying arena where passion collides with profession! The siren call of turning your gaming obsession into a career is a dream shared by many, and guess what? It’s more attainable now than ever before.

But hold those horses, champion! While the gaming industry is booming, and opportunities are ripe for the picking, let’s strap in for a reality check with a dash of inspiration.

The Gaming Gold Rush: A Trillion-Dollar Playground

The gaming industry isn’t just a hobby; it’s a global phenomenon. We’re talking about a multi-billion dollar ecosystem, constantly evolving and expanding.

From blockbuster AAA titles to indie darlings, from esports arenas to streaming platforms, the sheer scale of the gaming world is staggering. Opportunities abound, and the possibilities are limitless!

The Dream: From Player to Pro

Who hasn’t fantasized about getting paid to do what they love most? Trading in the 9-to-5 grind for a life of fragging foes, conquering virtual worlds, and sharing the joy with a global audience? It’s a powerful vision, and one that fuels countless gamers worldwide.

The dream is real, but achieving it requires more than just skill. It demands dedication, strategy, and a whole lot of hard work.

Level Up Your Expectations: It’s More Than Just Play

Let’s be crystal clear: turning your gaming passion into a viable career isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. It’s not just about logging hours and racking up wins.

It demands time, effort, and a healthy dose of resilience. Like any profession, the road to success is paved with challenges, setbacks, and the occasional frustrating lag spike.

Prepare to grind, learn, adapt, and persevere.

Building Your Empire: Brand and Community are Key

So, what separates the aspiring gamers from the established pros? What’s the secret ingredient that elevates a hobbyist into a thriving entrepreneur? The answer is two-fold: Brand Building and Community Building.

Think of yourself as a gaming brand. What makes you unique? What value do you bring to the table? Define your niche, craft your image, and let the world know what you’re all about!

Your brand is your promise to your audience.

Building a loyal community is like forging your own fellowship of gaming enthusiasts. Engage with your viewers, listen to their feedback, and create a space where everyone feels welcome and valued.

A strong community is your greatest asset.

Level 1: The Pro Gamer Path – Becoming an Esports Athlete

So, you dream of joining the ranks of esports legends? Fantastic! This is where dedication meets digital dexterity, and where countless hours of practice can transform into a full-blown career. Let’s dive headfirst into the fiercely competitive world of professional gaming and explore what it truly takes to climb the ranks.

What Makes a Pro? More Than Just Good Reflexes

Being a professional gamer isn’t just about having lightning-fast reflexes.

It’s a potent mix of dedication, strategic thinking, and an unwavering commitment to your chosen game.

Think of it like any other professional sport – the best players are the ones who tirelessly hone their skills, analyze their opponents, and adapt their strategies on the fly.

It’s about more than just playing, it’s about mastering.

Legends of the Game: Inspiration from the Top

Need some inspiration? Look no further than the titans of the esports world.

• Faker (Lee Sang-hyeok): Widely regarded as the greatest League of Legends player of all time, Faker’s dominance is a testament to his incredible skill and strategic mind.

• Ninja (Richard Tyler Blevins): A Fortnite phenomenon, Ninja’s charismatic personality and incredible gameplay catapulted him to mainstream fame.

• Shroud (Michael Grzesiek): Known for his insane aim and calm demeanor, Shroud is a master of first-person shooters like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and Valorant.

• xQc (Félix Lengyel): A former Overwatch pro turned full-time streamer, xQc’s passionate personality and engaging content have made him a fan favorite.

These players aren’t just skilled; they’ve built brands around their gaming prowess, connecting with fans and shaping the future of esports.

Beyond the Players: The Ecosystem of Esports

While the spotlight shines brightly on the athletes, remember there’s an entire ecosystem that supports the world of professional gaming.

Esports Coaches and Analysts

These are the masterminds behind the scenes, providing strategic guidance and analyzing opponent gameplay.

They’re the ones helping teams refine their strategies and stay one step ahead.

Esports Casters (Commentators)

Ever wonder who brings all the hype to a match? That would be the casters.

These commentators provide play-by-play analysis and inject energy into tournaments, making the experience thrilling for viewers.

Esports Team Owners/Managers

The entrepreneurs and organizers! They handle the business side of things, managing players, securing sponsorships, and ensuring their teams have the resources they need to compete.

Level Up Your Game: Skill Development and Meta Mastery

To truly thrive as a pro, you must commit to continuous skill development.

Practice, practice, practice! Analyze your own gameplay, identify areas for improvement, and dedicate time to honing your skills.

Understanding the game’s "meta" – the prevailing strategies and character builds – is also crucial.

Stay informed about the latest updates, experiment with different tactics, and always be ready to adapt.

The Power of Teams and Leagues

Esports isn’t a solo sport. It thrives on teamwork and structured competition.

Esports Teams

Teams like Cloud9, FaZe Clan, Team Liquid, and TSM are renowned for their talented rosters and competitive success.

Joining a team can provide you with the structure, support, and resources you need to reach your full potential.

Esports Leagues

Leagues such as the League of Legends Championship Series (LCS), Overwatch League, and Call of Duty League provide the platform for professional teams to compete for glory and prize money.

These leagues offer a structured competitive environment and attract a massive audience, making them a vital part of the esports landscape.

Level 2: Streaming Your Way to Success – Broadcasting Your Gameplay

Ready to ditch the daily grind and beam your gaming adventures directly to the world?
Maybe even get paid to do it?

Game streaming is where passion meets performance, and personality transforms into profit!
It’s one of the most accessible paths for gamers to turn their hobby into a career.
But, what does it really take to make it in the wild world of online broadcasting?

Let’s plug in, power up, and explore how you can stream your way to success.

Becoming a Gaming Broadcaster: Your Platform Awaits!

The first step in your streaming journey is choosing your platform.
Twitch, YouTube Gaming, and Kick are currently the top contenders.

Each offers a unique ecosystem with varying audiences and monetization opportunities.
Twitch is the undisputed king, known for its strong community features and live interaction.

YouTube Gaming leverages the power of Google’s search engine and caters to a wider, more diverse audience.
Kick, a newer platform, is rapidly gaining traction with more generous revenue splits.

Find Your Niche, Find Your Audience

Think about the games you love playing, your unique personality, and the audience you want to attract.
Do you excel at competitive FPS games?
Are you a master strategist in complex RPGs?

Perhaps you prefer showcasing your creative side through artistic games like Minecraft or Animal Crossing?

Your niche is your strength. Embrace it!

Inspiration from the Best: Learning from Streaming Stars

Want to see how the pros do it?
Look no further than successful streamers like LilyPichu, known for her charming personality and collaborative streams.

Then there’s Pokimane, a variety streamer with a massive following built on her engaging content and authentic connection with her audience.

And who could forget Ludwig, whose innovative stream formats and humorous commentary have propelled him to the top?

Observe what makes these streamers successful – their consistency, interaction, and unique personalities – and adapt those lessons to your own streaming style.

Gearing Up for Glory: Essential Software and Equipment

You can’t conquer the streaming world with just a potato.
Well, maybe you could try… but we highly advise against it!

Investing in the right software and equipment is crucial for delivering a professional and enjoyable viewing experience.

Streaming Software is the heart of your broadcast.
OBS Studio and Streamlabs OBS are popular free options that allow you to manage your camera, microphone, and overlays.

A high-quality microphone is essential for clear audio, and a decent webcam allows you to connect with your audience visually.

Don’t underestimate the importance of good lighting, either!

Leveling Up: Twitch Affiliates/Partners & YouTube Partners

Once you’ve built a consistent following, you can unlock monetization features through platform partnership programs.

Twitch Affiliates and Partners, and YouTube Partners unlock a host of new features that let you engage with your audience.
This can include custom emotes, subscription options, and ad revenue sharing.

These programs reward dedication and loyalty, providing sustainable pathways to income.

Subscription services, such as Twitch Subscriptions and YouTube Channel Memberships, offer viewers exclusive perks in exchange for monthly support.
This provides you with recurring revenue and strengthens your community.

From Views to Victory: Monetizing Your Content

Now for the part you’ve been waiting for: making money!
There are several ways to monetize your stream and turn your passion into profit.

Sponsorships involve partnering with brands to promote their products or services on your stream.
Donations allow viewers to directly support your content through platforms like PayPal or Streamlabs.

Affiliate marketing involves promoting products or services and earning a commission on each sale made through your unique affiliate link.

Analyze This: Using Analytics to Grow Your Stream

Data is your friend!
Both Twitch and YouTube provide powerful analytics tools that allow you to track your stream’s performance.

Use this data to identify what content resonates with your audience, optimize your stream schedule, and refine your overall strategy.

Don’t forget the power of Social Media Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.
Use these platforms to promote your stream, engage with your followers, and build your brand beyond the live broadcast.

Level 3: Content Creation – Beyond Just Playing Games

[Level 2: Streaming Your Way to Success – Broadcasting Your Gameplay
Ready to ditch the daily grind and beam your gaming adventures directly to the world?
Maybe even get paid to do it?
Game streaming is where passion meets performance, and personality transforms into profit!
It’s one of the most accessible paths for gamers to turn their hobby into a…]

But what happens when the cameras stop rolling?
That’s where content creation truly shines.
It allows you to curate and curate experiences, craft narratives, and connect with your audience on a whole new level.

Creating content beyond live gameplay opens up a universe of possibilities. It’s not just about playing; it’s about crafting stories, sharing insights, and building a lasting legacy.
If you’re ready to take your passion to the next level, buckle up!

Becoming a Gaming Content Creator: More Than Just Gameplay

So, you want to be a gaming content creator? Awesome! It’s more than just playing games (although that’s definitely part of it!).
It’s about carving out your own niche, finding your unique voice, and sharing your love of gaming with the world.

Think of gaming YouTubers and TikTokers as digital storytellers.
They’re not just playing games; they’re crafting experiences.
They build a connection with their audience through creativity, humor, insight, and dedication.

The key is to be authentic.
Let your personality shine through!

Drawing Inspiration from the Titans: PewDiePie, Markiplier, and More

Need some inspiration? Look no further than the giants of gaming content creation!
PewDiePie, Markiplier, Jacksepticeye, and Dream built their empires on passion, personality, and relentless dedication.

What can we learn from them? They weren’t just skilled gamers; they were master storytellers.
They engaged with their audience, built a community, and consistently delivered content that resonated.

These creators found a way to connect with their audience, building relationships that would last long-term.
They also stayed true to themselves and their audience, and have continued to grow along with their community.

Don’t try to copy them, but do study their strategies.
Learn what makes them successful and adapt those techniques to your own unique style!

Crafting Compelling Content: Gameplay Guides, Reviews, and More!

Ready to start crafting your own content? The possibilities are endless!
Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• Gameplay Guides/Walkthroughs: Share your expertise! Help players conquer challenging levels or master complex strategies. Be the guide that players trust!
• Game Reviews: Offer your honest opinions on the latest releases. Let your audience know what’s worth playing and what they can skip. Authenticity is key!
• Tutorials: Teach your viewers essential skills or tricks. Help them improve their gameplay and become better gamers.

• "Let’s Play" Series: Take your audience on a journey through your favorite games. Share your reactions, commentary, and unique perspective.

  Don’t be afraid to experiment! The best content is often born from trying new things and pushing creative boundaries.

The Tools of the Trade: Video Editing Software

Creating high-quality content requires the right tools.
While gameplay is crucial, great video editing can transform your content into something truly amazing.
Video editing software is your new best friend.

Here are a few popular options:

• Adobe Premiere Pro: An industry-standard editing suite.
• Final Cut Pro: Apple’s professional-grade editing software.
• DaVinci Resolve: Powerful editing and color correction tools.

These tools can assist you in trimming footage, adding music and sound effects, adding text overlays, and creating smooth transitions!

Promote Your Content: Unleash the Power of Social Media

You’ve created awesome content… now what?
It’s time to get it out there! Social media is your secret weapon to reach a wider audience.

• Twitter: Share updates, engage with your followers, and promote your latest videos.
• Instagram: Showcase stunning visuals, post behind-the-scenes content, and connect with your community.
• TikTok: Create short, engaging videos that capture attention and drive traffic to your channel.
• YouTube Gaming: Optimize your videos for search, use relevant tags, and engage with viewers in the comments.

Consistency is key. The more you promote your content, the more likely you are to attract new viewers and build a loyal following.
Engage with your community, respond to comments and questions, and make your audience feel valued.

Level 4: The Broader Gaming Ecosystem – Opportunities Beyond the Spotlight

So, you’re passionate about gaming, but maybe being a pro player or a full-time streamer isn’t quite your jam? That’s totally okay! The beauty of the gaming world is its vastness.

It’s a sprawling universe of opportunity, extending far beyond the spotlight of esports arenas and streaming platforms. There are tons of other ways to turn your passion into a profession!

Coaching and Analysis: The Minds Behind the Mayhem

Ever wonder how top esports teams strategize and adapt? That’s where Esports Coaches and Analysts come in. These aren’t just cheerleaders; they’re the tactical masterminds.

They dissect gameplay, identify weaknesses, and develop strategies to give their teams a competitive edge.

Think of them as the Bill Belichicks of the gaming world. If you have a knack for strategy, a keen eye for detail, and a deep understanding of game mechanics, this could be your calling.

It’s about using your brainpower to help others achieve victory. Isn’t that awesome?

The Voice of Esports: Becoming a Caster

Love to talk about games? Have a charismatic personality? Then maybe you’re destined to be an Esports Caster!

These commentators bring the excitement of esports to life. They provide play-by-play analysis, offer insightful commentary, and engage with the audience.

A great caster can elevate a match from a simple competition into an unforgettable spectacle.

It’s all about capturing the passion and energy of the game.
Think of guys like Goldenboy or Machine!

The Skills of a Great Caster

• Deep Game Knowledge: You need to know the game inside and out.
• Quick Wit and Eloquence: Think on your feet and articulate your thoughts clearly.
• Charisma and Energy: Bring the hype and keep the audience engaged.

Joining the Ranks: Teams and Tournament Organizers

Beyond individual roles, consider working directly for Esports Teams or Tournament Organizers. These organizations need talented individuals in various roles.

You could be involved in marketing, social media, event management, or even game development!

It’s about finding your niche and contributing your skills to a thriving ecosystem. It is a huge career path with more and more opportunity growing by the day!

Examples of Organizations to Target

• Esports Teams: Cloud9, FaZe Clan, Team Liquid, TSM
• Tournament Organizers: ESL, DreamHack, Major League Gaming (MLG)

The Power of Connection: Networking is Key

No matter which path you choose, Networking is crucial. Attend gaming events, join online communities, and connect with other professionals in the industry.

Building relationships can open doors to unexpected opportunities.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to people you admire and ask for advice. Most gamers and professionals in the field are very supportive. It’s all about growing together! You’ve got this!

Level 5: Building Your Brand and Community – Creating a Loyal Following

Level 4: The Broader Gaming Ecosystem – Opportunities Beyond the Spotlight
So, you’re passionate about gaming, but maybe being a pro player or a full-time streamer isn’t quite your jam? That’s totally okay! The beauty of the gaming world is its vastness.

It’s a sprawling universe of opportunity, extending far beyond the spotlight of esports arenas…

This brings us to Level 5: where the real magic happens. You might have the skills, the gameplay, and the setup, but without a strong brand and a thriving community, you’re essentially playing to an empty room. Building a loyal following is the cornerstone of a sustainable gaming career, turning your passion into a profession. So, how do you cultivate that devoted audience? Let’s dive in!

Brand Building: Finding Your Unique Voice in a Crowd

In a sea of gamers, how do you make sure you stand out? The answer lies in crafting a unique and authentic brand. It’s not just about slapping a logo on your stream; it’s about defining who you are and what you represent.

Think about what makes you, you. What’s your personality like? What kind of content do you truly enjoy creating? What are your values?

Your brand should be a reflection of your authentic self, resonating with an audience that appreciates your unique perspective. Don’t try to be someone you’re not.

Authenticity shines through, and people are drawn to genuine creators.

Community Building: More Than Just Viewers

Your community is the heartbeat of your gaming journey. They’re the reason you stream, the fuel for your content creation, and the foundation of your success.

But it’s a two-way street:

It’s not just about racking up views and subscribers; it’s about building genuine relationships with your audience. So, how do you foster that sense of belonging?

• Engage, Engage, Engage: Respond to comments, host Q&A sessions, and acknowledge your viewers during streams. Make them feel seen and heard.
• Create a Safe and Welcoming Space: Set clear guidelines for your community to ensure a positive and inclusive environment for everyone.
• Collaborate with Your Audience: Involve your community in your content creation process. Ask for suggestions, run polls, and create content based on their feedback.

Social Media and Discord: Your Digital Headquarters

Social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok are your digital billboards, showcasing your personality and promoting your content.

Use them to share highlights from your streams, engage with your community, and reach new audiences.

Don’t underestimate the power of a well-crafted tweet or an engaging TikTok video.

But social media is just the beginning.

For truly dedicated community building, you need a Discord server. Discord provides a centralized hub for your followers to connect with you and each other.

Create different channels for discussions, announcements, and off-topic conversations.

Run contests and giveaways to keep things exciting and reward your loyal supporters. Discord is where friendships are forged and communities thrive.

The Grind is Real: Navigating the Challenges of a Gaming Career

Level 5: Building Your Brand and Community – Creating a Loyal Following
Level 4: The Broader Gaming Ecosystem – Opportunities Beyond the Spotlight
So, you’re passionate about gaming, but maybe being a pro player or a full-time streamer isn’t quite your jam? That’s totally okay! The beauty of the gaming world is its vastness.

It’s a sprawling universe with incredible opportunities, but let’s be real: it’s not all sunshine and pixels. Before diving headfirst, it’s crucial to acknowledge the challenges that come with turning your passion into a profession.

This isn’t about raining on anyone’s parade.

It’s about equipping you with the knowledge to navigate the potential pitfalls and build a sustainable, fulfilling career in the gaming world.

Facing the Realities: What to Watch Out For

The path to gaming glory isn’t always paved with gold.

Like any career, it has its unique set of hurdles. Understanding these challenges is the first step toward overcoming them and building a long-term strategy for success.

Let’s dive into some of the most common roadblocks.

Burnout: The Silent Assassin

Gaming can be incredibly demanding, both physically and mentally. Hours of practice, intense competition, and the constant pressure to perform can lead to burnout.

It’s easy to get caught up in the grind and forget to take care of yourself.

Remember, your mental and physical health are paramount. Schedule regular breaks, pursue hobbies outside of gaming, and prioritize sleep.

Don’t let your passion consume you; nurture it.

The Fierce Competition: Standing Out in the Crowd

The gaming industry is incredibly competitive. Thousands of aspiring pros and content creators are vying for the same opportunities.

This can be discouraging, but it also fuels innovation and pushes you to be your best.

The key is to find your niche and offer something unique.

What sets you apart?

What special skills or perspectives do you bring to the table? Focus on developing your personal brand and building a genuine connection with your audience.

Income Instability: Riding the Rollercoaster

Unless you’re a top-tier pro or a wildly popular streamer, income can be unpredictable, especially in the early stages.

Sponsorships can dry up, viewership can fluctuate, and the algorithm can be a fickle beast.

It’s crucial to manage your finances wisely and diversify your income streams.

Explore opportunities like affiliate marketing, merchandise sales, or even freelance work in the gaming industry.

Having a financial cushion can help you weather the storms and stay focused on your goals.

Finding Balance: The Key to Long-Term Success

So, how do you navigate these challenges and build a sustainable gaming career? The answer is balance.

It’s about finding a way to pursue your passion without sacrificing your well-being.

Time Management: Mastering the Art of Prioritization

Effective time management is essential for avoiding burnout and staying on track.

Create a schedule that includes dedicated time for practice, content creation, networking, and, most importantly, rest and relaxation.

Don’t be afraid to say no to opportunities that don’t align with your goals or that would stretch you too thin.

Avoiding Exhaustion: Listen to Your Body and Mind

It’s tempting to push yourself to the limit, but remember that your body and mind need time to recover.

Pay attention to the signs of exhaustion, such as fatigue, irritability, and lack of motivation.

Take regular breaks, practice mindfulness, and prioritize activities that help you de-stress.

Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup!

Building a Support System: You’re Not Alone

Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, and fellow gamers who understand your passion and can offer encouragement and advice.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

Sharing your struggles and celebrating your successes with others can make the journey much more enjoyable and sustainable.

The gaming world is full of amazing people, so connect, collaborate, and grow together!

Gear Up: Essential Tools and Resources for Success

So, you’re ready to take your gaming passion to the next level? Awesome! Just like any profession, having the right tools can make all the difference. Let’s dive into the essential gear and resources you’ll need to set yourself up for success. Think of this as your gaming utility belt – ready for anything!

The Foundation: Your Gaming Rig

First things first, let’s talk about your battle station. A powerful gaming computer is the bedrock of your setup.

It’s not just about playing the latest titles; it’s about reliable performance during streams, smooth video editing, and overall a lag-free experience. Consider these core components:

• CPU: Go for a multi-core processor (Intel i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 and above are great options) to handle demanding tasks.
• GPU: A dedicated graphics card is a must. Aim for an NVIDIA GeForce RTX or AMD Radeon RX series card. The higher the better.
• RAM: 16GB of RAM is the sweet spot for most gamers, but 32GB can be ideal for heavy multitasking and video editing.
• Storage: A fast SSD (Solid State Drive) for your operating system and frequently played games is crucial.

Don’t underestimate the importance of a good monitor, either! High refresh rates (144Hz or higher) and low response times will give you a competitive edge.

Level Up Your Peripherals

Beyond the core PC, your peripherals are your direct connection to the game. Investing in quality peripherals can significantly improve your performance and comfort.

• Gaming Mouse: Look for adjustable DPI, comfortable ergonomics, and programmable buttons.
• Gaming Keyboard: Mechanical keyboards offer tactile feedback and faster response times.
• Gaming Headset: Clear audio and a good microphone are essential for communication and immersion. Wireless options offer greater freedom.

Streaming and Creation Software

Ready to share your gaming prowess with the world? Streaming and video editing software are your keys to connecting with your audience.

• Streaming Software: OBS Studio and Streamlabs OBS are popular, free options packed with features. Experiment to find what works best for you.
• Video Editing Software: Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro (for Mac users), and DaVinci Resolve offer robust editing capabilities. DaVinci Resolve also has a free version that’s surprisingly powerful!

Don’t be afraid to explore free trials and tutorials to learn the ropes. There are tons of helpful resources online to guide you.

Analytics: Know Your Audience, Grow Your Channel

Understanding your audience is key to growing your channel. Analytics tools provide valuable insights into your viewers’ behavior and preferences.

• Twitch Analytics: Track your viewership, engagement, and revenue. Learn what content resonates with your audience.
• YouTube Analytics: Monitor your video performance, audience demographics, and traffic sources.

Use these insights to refine your content strategy, optimize your stream schedule, and connect with your viewers more effectively.

Resources and Learning Platforms

The gaming landscape is constantly evolving. Stay ahead of the curve by tapping into valuable resources and learning platforms.

• YouTube Tutorials: A treasure trove of information on everything from game strategies to software tutorials.
• Online Courses: Platforms like Udemy and Coursera offer structured courses on game development, streaming, and content creation.
• Gaming Communities: Engage with other gamers on forums, Discord servers, and social media groups. Learn from each other and build valuable connections.

Remember, investing in your skills and knowledge is just as important as investing in your equipment.

With the right gear and a commitment to continuous learning, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the exciting world of gaming careers! Now get out there and level up!

So, can you make a living playing video games? Absolutely, but as you’ve seen, it takes serious dedication, smart choices, and a healthy dose of realism. Whether you’re dreaming of esports glory or prefer the creative path of content creation, remember that passion and hard work are your best allies in turning your gaming hobby into a rewarding career. Good luck out there, and game on!