Gamers are known for their passion for gaming and their love for the latest games. But have you ever wondered who the richest gamer in the world is? The world of gaming is filled with some of the wealthiest people, from game developers to professional gamers. In this guide, we will explore the richest gamer in the world and delve into the world of indie games. Get ready to discover the ultimate guide to indie games and unveil the richest gamer in the world.
Who is the Richest Gamer?
The Rise of Professional Gaming
The Emergence of Esports
Professional gaming, or esports, has seen a dramatic rise in popularity over the past decade. Esports tournaments now attract millions of viewers and offer significant prize pools, leading to a new form of celebrity for top players. This has created a new market for sponsorships, endorsements, and even salaries for professional gamers.
The Growth of Online Gaming
The rise of online gaming has played a significant role in the growth of professional gaming. With the widespread availability of high-speed internet and the proliferation of mobile devices, more people than ever before are able to compete in online gaming tournaments. This has led to a surge in interest in esports, as well as the creation of new opportunities for professional gamers.
The Monetization of Gaming
As the popularity of esports has grown, so too has the amount of money involved in the industry. Sponsorships, advertising deals, and merchandise sales are just a few of the ways that professional gamers can make money. Additionally, many top players are now able to secure salaries from teams and organizations, making a career out of their passion for gaming.
The Future of Professional Gaming
As the industry continues to grow, it is likely that we will see even more opportunities for professional gamers. With the rise of new technologies and the increasing popularity of mobile gaming, the world of esports is poised for even greater success in the years to come. Whether you are a fan of the sport or a player looking to make a career out of your passion, now is an exciting time to be involved in professional gaming.
The Evolution of Esports
The Inception of Esports
Esports, short for electronic sports, emerged as a competitive form of video gaming in the late 1960s. It initially gained traction in South Korea, where the government even recognized it as a legitimate sport in 2003. Since then, esports has experienced exponential growth, becoming a multibillion-dollar industry that captivates millions of fans worldwide.
The Rise of Professional Gaming
The 1990s marked a significant turning point for esports. The release of popular games like Super Smash Bros., Dota, and StarCraft led to the organization of numerous tournaments and competitions. With the advent of the internet, gamers could now connect and compete with each other on a global scale, fueling the growth of professional gaming.
The Expansion of Esports Tournaments
As esports continued to evolve, so did the scope and scale of its tournaments. Major gaming companies began hosting their own events, offering lucrative prizes and attracting top talent from around the world. In 2011, the first-ever League of Legends World Championship drew a record-breaking 8 million online viewers, heralding the rise of esports as a major form of entertainment.
The Influence of Streaming Platforms
The rise of streaming platforms like Twitch revolutionized the esports landscape. Gamers could now broadcast their matches live, earning followers and sponsorships along the way. These platforms allowed fans to watch their favorite games and players, fostering a sense of community and engagement that further propelled the growth of esports.
The Embrace of Mainstream Media
As esports continued to gain traction, mainstream media took notice. In 2016, the Overwatch League was founded, backed by none other than Activision Blizzard. This marked a pivotal moment for esports, as traditional sports leagues began to invest in gaming, further legitimizing it as a legitimate form of competition.
The Present and Future of Esports
Today, esports is a thriving industry with a global reach. The world’s richest gamer, or the highest-earning professional gamer, hails from this world of competitive gaming. Esports has permeated every aspect of modern culture, and its future remains bright, with new games, tournaments, and innovations continually reshaping the landscape.
The Richest Gamers in the World
While it’s difficult to determine the exact net worth of the richest gamer in the world, there are several individuals who have made significant fortunes through gaming-related ventures. Here are some of the richest gamers in the world:
1. Hiroshi Yamauchi
Hiroshi Yamauchi, the former president of Nintendo, was one of the richest gamers in the world, with a net worth of over $5 billion at the time of his death in 2013. During his tenure at Nintendo, Yamauchi oversaw the development of several iconic gaming franchises, including Mario and The Legend of Zelda.
2. Shigeru Miyamoto
Shigeru Miyamoto, the creator of some of Nintendo’s most popular franchises, including Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda, is estimated to be worth over $2 billion. Miyamoto has been called the “Walt Disney of video games” and is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the gaming industry.
3. Gabe Newell
Gabe Newell, the co-founder of Valve Corporation, is estimated to be worth over $4 billion. Valve is the developer of popular games such as Half-Life, Portal, and Dota 2, as well as the online gaming platform Steam.
4. Bobby Kotick
Bobby Kotick, the CEO of Activision Blizzard, is estimated to be worth over $2 billion. Activision Blizzard is the developer of popular games such as Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, and Candy Crush Saga.
5. Richard Garriott
Richard Garriott, also known as Lord British, is a video game designer and developer who is estimated to be worth over $1 billion. Garriott is best known for creating the Ultima series of games and is considered one of the pioneers of the massively multiplayer online game (MMOG) genre.
While this list is by no means exhaustive, it provides a glimpse into the wealth and influence of some of the richest gamers in the world.
The World of Indie Games
What are Indie Games?
Indie games refer to video games that are developed by individuals or small teams without the backing of a large publisher. These games often have unique and innovative concepts, and are known for their creativity and artistic expression. Indie games can be released on various platforms, including PC, consoles, and mobile devices. They cover a wide range of genres, from action and adventure to puzzle and strategy. Indie games are gaining popularity among gamers, as they offer a refreshing change from the mainstream titles and provide a platform for new talent in the gaming industry.
The Advantages of Indie Games
Indie games, short for independent games, refer to video games that are developed and published by individuals or small teams without the support of large publishers. These games offer a range of advantages over their mainstream counterparts, making them a popular choice among gamers worldwide. Here are some of the key advantages of indie games:
1. Unique and Innovative Gameplay
Indie games often feature unique and innovative gameplay mechanics that differentiate them from mainstream games. Since indie developers are not bound by corporate mandates or market trends, they have the freedom to experiment with new ideas and gameplay concepts. This creativity leads to fresh and exciting gaming experiences that can be difficult to find in mainstream games.
2. Emphasis on Storytelling and Narrative
Indie games often prioritize storytelling and narrative over gameplay mechanics, offering a more immersive and emotional gaming experience. Indie developers have the flexibility to explore complex themes and character development, leading to more engaging and thought-provoking stories.
3. Lower Cost and Accessibility
Indie games are often more affordable than mainstream games, making them accessible to a wider audience. The smaller scale of indie game development means that developers can focus on creating a high-quality game without the need for expensive marketing campaigns or massive budgets. This results in games that are more accessible to players who may not have the financial resources to invest in expensive gaming experiences.
4. Support for Niche Genres and Markets
Indie games often cater to niche genres and markets that may not be profitable for larger publishers. This means that indie developers have the opportunity to create games that cater to specific interests and communities, offering a more tailored gaming experience.
5. Direct Communication with Developers
Indie developers often have a direct line of communication with their audience, allowing them to receive feedback and incorporate suggestions into their games. This direct communication can lead to a more responsive and adaptive development process, resulting in games that are more tailored to the needs and desires of their audience.
Overall, indie games offer a range of advantages over mainstream games, including unique and innovative gameplay, a focus on storytelling and narrative, lower cost and accessibility, support for niche genres and markets, and direct communication with developers. These advantages make indie games a popular choice among gamers looking for fresh and exciting gaming experiences.
The Future of Indie Games
Emergence of New Platforms
As technology continues to advance, indie games are likely to gain even more popularity, particularly as new platforms emerge. This includes virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) gaming, which are set to revolutionize the gaming industry. These platforms will not only offer gamers an immersive experience but also provide indie game developers with new opportunities to showcase their creativity.
Increased Focus on Accessibility
Accessibility in gaming has become a critical issue, and indie game developers are at the forefront of this movement. As more gamers demand accessible gaming experiences, indie developers are expected to create games that cater to a broader audience. This includes designing games that are more inclusive and easy to play for people with disabilities.
Rise of Cross-Platform Gaming
Cross-platform gaming, which allows players to play games across different devices, is expected to become increasingly popular in the future. This will enable indie game developers to reach a wider audience and potentially increase their revenue streams. Additionally, cross-platform gaming will encourage collaboration between developers, leading to more innovative and diverse games.
Growth of Mobile Gaming
Mobile gaming has been on the rise in recent years, and this trend is expected to continue. Indie game developers will likely take advantage of this by creating games specifically designed for mobile devices. This will provide them with a massive potential audience, as mobile gaming is expected to continue to grow.
Emphasis on Niche Markets
Indie game developers have always catered to niche markets, and this trend is expected to continue in the future. As major gaming companies focus on developing big-budget games, indie developers will have the opportunity to create games that cater to specific interests and hobbies. This could include games based on niche topics, such as history or science, and will provide gamers with a more personalized experience.
Collaboration and Partnerships
Collaboration and partnerships between indie game developers will become increasingly important in the future. By working together, developers can share resources, knowledge, and expertise, leading to more innovative and successful games. This collaboration could take the form of co-development, where multiple developers work on the same project, or cross-promotion, where developers promote each other’s games to reach a wider audience.
Overall, the future of indie games looks bright, with new platforms, accessibility, cross-platform gaming, mobile gaming, niche markets, and collaboration all playing a significant role in shaping the industry. As technology continues to advance and gaming trends evolve, indie game developers will have the opportunity to create unique and innovative games that capture the hearts and minds of gamers worldwide.
The Connection Between Indie Games and Professional Gaming
The Rise of Indie Games in Esports
- Indie games have made a significant impact on the world of professional gaming, offering players a fresh and diverse range of gaming experiences.
- With the increasing popularity of indie games, they have found their way into the competitive gaming scene, offering players the opportunity to compete in tournaments and earn recognition as professional gamers.
- The rise of indie games in esports has been driven by several factors, including the growing interest in alternative gaming experiences, the accessibility of indie games, and the support of gaming communities.
- As a result, indie games have become a staple in the esports landscape, with tournaments and events dedicated to showcasing the skills of players competing in these games.
- The success of indie games in esports has also led to increased investment and support from game developers, publishers, and sponsors, further fueling the growth of the indie game scene.
- This has led to the emergence of indie game champions, who have earned recognition and prize money for their skills in competing in these games.
- Overall, the rise of indie games in esports has created new opportunities for players and developers alike, expanding the horizons of professional gaming and providing a platform for creative and innovative gaming experiences.
The Role of Indie Games in the Gaming Industry
Indie games have become increasingly popular in recent years, capturing the attention of gamers worldwide. They are known for their unique and innovative gameplay, artistic style, and often low cost compared to mainstream titles. While some may dismiss indie games as mere hobbies, they have a significant impact on the gaming industry as a whole.
Indie games have proven to be a driving force behind the growth of the gaming industry. They provide an opportunity for new developers to showcase their creativity and ideas, which can lead to the development of new genres and gameplay mechanics. Many popular mainstream games today started out as indie games, such as Minecraft and Fortnite.
In addition to driving innovation, indie games also play a crucial role in the democratization of the gaming industry. They provide a platform for smaller developers to compete with larger studios, allowing for a more diverse range of games to be produced. This, in turn, leads to a more competitive market, with gamers having access to a wider variety of games to choose from.
Another important aspect of indie games is their ability to foster a sense of community among gamers. Many indie games are developed by small teams or even solo developers, who often engage with their fanbase through social media and online forums. This creates a more personal connection between developers and players, leading to a more dedicated and passionate fanbase.
In conclusion, indie games have a significant impact on the gaming industry. They drive innovation, provide opportunities for smaller developers, and foster a sense of community among gamers. As such, they are an essential part of the gaming landscape and will continue to shape the industry for years to come.
The Impact of Indie Games on Professional Gaming
The indie game scene has been steadily growing in recent years, and it’s had a profound impact on professional gaming. Here are some of the ways in which indie games have changed the landscape of professional gaming:
- Diversification of Genres: Indie games have brought a wealth of new genres and gameplay styles to the table, providing professional gamers with more diverse options to specialize in. This has allowed players to explore different styles of gameplay and find their niche within the industry.
- Increased Innovation: Indie games often take risks and push boundaries, leading to a surge of innovation in the gaming industry. This has inspired professional gamers to experiment with new strategies and techniques, and has driven the evolution of the industry as a whole.
- Greater Accessibility: Indie games often have lower barriers to entry, making them accessible to a wider range of players. This has opened up opportunities for amateur players to become professional gamers, and has expanded the pool of talent within the industry.
- Faster Development Cycles: Indie games are often developed by smaller teams with limited resources, leading to faster development cycles. This has allowed professional gamers to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies, and has kept the industry moving at a rapid pace.
Overall, the impact of indie games on professional gaming has been significant and far-reaching. As the indie game scene continues to grow and evolve, it’s likely that we’ll see even more changes and innovations within the professional gaming world.
The Richest Indie Gamers
The Top Earners in Indie Games
Independent game developers, or indie game developers, are individuals or small teams who create and release games without the support of a large publisher. These developers often have unique ideas and creative freedom, which allows them to produce games that stand out from the crowd. Many indie game developers have become incredibly successful, earning millions of dollars from their creations. In this section, we will explore the top earners in the world of indie games.
- Success Stories: Indie games have been known to generate huge revenues for their creators. Some of the most successful indie games include Minecraft, Fortnite, and Among Us. Minecraft, created by Markus “Notch” Persson, was sold to Microsoft for $2.5 billion in 2014. Fortnite, created by Epic Games, has generated billions of dollars in revenue since its release in 2017. Among Us, created by InnerSloth, has generated over $50 million in revenue since its release in 2018.
- Market Trends: The indie game market has been growing rapidly in recent years, with more and more developers choosing to self-publish their games. This has led to an increase in the number of successful indie games, as well as an increase in the amount of money being earned by indie game developers. In 2020, the global market for indie games was valued at over $11 billion, and is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.
- Future Prospects: The future of indie games looks bright, with new developers entering the market every day. As technology continues to advance, it will become easier for indie game developers to create high-quality games that can compete with those of larger publishers. With the continued growth of the indie game market, it is likely that we will see even more top earners in the years to come.
The Success Stories of Indie Gamers
The indie gaming scene has seen many success stories in recent years, with many indie developers finding commercial and critical success with their games. Here are some of the most notable examples:
Super Mario Bros
Super Mario Bros, created by Shigeru Miyamoto, is considered one of the greatest video games of all time. It was released in 1985 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and has since sold over 40 million copies worldwide. The game’s success helped to establish the platformer genre and cemented Nintendo’s position as a major player in the video game industry.
Minecraft
Minecraft, created by Markus “Notch” Persson, was first released in 2011 and has since become one of the best-selling video games of all time, with over 200 million copies sold across all platforms. The game’s sandbox-style gameplay and blocky visuals have made it a hit with players of all ages, and it has spawned numerous spin-offs and merchandise.
The Witness
The Witness, created by Jonathan Blow, was released in 2016 and has received widespread critical acclaim for its challenging puzzles and immersive world. The game has sold over 1 million copies across all platforms and has been praised for its attention to detail and unique gameplay mechanics.
Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley, created by Eric Barone, was released in 2016 and has become a cult classic among gamers. The game combines elements of farming simulation and role-playing games, and has received widespread praise for its charming graphics and addictive gameplay. Stardew Valley has sold over 10 million copies across all platforms and has spawned numerous fan-made mods and content.
These are just a few examples of the many successful indie games that have been released in recent years. The success of these games has inspired a new generation of indie developers to pursue their dreams and create innovative and exciting new games for players to enjoy.
The Future of Indie Gaming as a Career
Opportunities and Challenges
Indie gaming as a career offers numerous opportunities for talented developers and designers to showcase their creativity and make a name for themselves in the industry. With the rise of digital distribution platforms, indie games have become more accessible to a wider audience, increasing the potential for financial success.
However, the indie gaming landscape is also marked by significant challenges. Developers must navigate a highly competitive market, with a vast array of titles vying for the attention of players. Moreover, securing funding and resources for indie game development can be difficult, particularly for newcomers to the industry.
The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion
As the indie gaming industry continues to grow, it is essential to foster a culture of diversity and inclusion. This includes promoting diversity in both the development teams and the games themselves, as well as ensuring that indie games are accessible to players from all backgrounds.
Embracing diversity and inclusion in indie gaming can lead to a richer and more vibrant gaming experience for players, as well as provide opportunities for developers from underrepresented backgrounds to showcase their talents and contribute to the industry.
Emerging Trends and Technologies
The future of indie gaming as a career is shaped by emerging trends and technologies, which present both opportunities and challenges. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies, for example, offer new possibilities for immersive gaming experiences, but also require significant investment in hardware and software development.
Similarly, the growth of cloud gaming platforms offers the potential for indie games to reach a wider audience, but also raises questions about the role of traditional distribution channels and the impact on developer revenue streams.
Navigating the Business Landscape
Navigating the business landscape of indie gaming requires a strong understanding of the industry’s dynamics and trends. Developers must consider factors such as market demand, player preferences, and the competitive landscape when developing their games and marketing strategies.
Moreover, securing funding and resources for indie game development requires a thorough understanding of the financing options available, including crowdfunding, grants, and investment from venture capital firms.
The Rise of Independent Publishing
The rise of independent publishing platforms has given indie game developers greater control over the distribution and marketing of their games. These platforms offer a range of services, including distribution, marketing, and community management, enabling developers to focus on the creative aspects of game development.
However, independent publishing also requires a strong understanding of the business side of the industry, including pricing strategies, marketing tactics, and player acquisition.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the future of indie gaming as a career is marked by both opportunities and challenges. Developers must navigate a competitive market, while also promoting diversity and inclusion and staying abreast of emerging trends and technologies. With the right combination of creativity, business acumen, and strategic planning, indie game developers can build successful careers and contribute to the continued growth and evolution of the industry.
The Enduring Appeal of Indie Games
- Indie games have gained popularity due to their unique gameplay and storytelling
- The appeal of indie games lies in their ability to push boundaries and challenge conventional gaming norms
- Indie games often have a strong focus on innovation and creativity, leading to a diverse range of gaming experiences
- The indie game community has fostered a sense of community and collaboration among developers and players alike
- Indie games often have a personal touch, with developers putting their heart and soul into each project, making them more relatable and engaging for players
- The success of indie games has also paved the way for more diverse representation in the gaming industry, with games tackling social issues and reflecting the experiences of marginalized communities.
The Future of Indie Games in the Gaming Industry
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, the role of indie games becomes increasingly significant. In recent years, indie games have been making waves in the gaming world, offering unique gaming experiences that often go beyond the boundaries of traditional gaming.
Emergence of Indie Games
The emergence of indie games can be traced back to the early 2000s when the cost of game development software and hardware became more accessible. This led to a surge in independent developers creating their own games, many of which went on to become critically acclaimed and commercially successful.
Growth of Indie Games
The growth of indie games has been exponential, with the rise of digital distribution platforms such as Steam, GOG, and the Humble Bundle. These platforms have provided indie developers with a low-cost, high-reward distribution channel, enabling them to reach a massive audience of gamers worldwide.
Evolution of Indie Games
Indie games have evolved from simple 2D side-scrollers to complex 3D games with stunning graphics and immersive gameplay. The indie game scene has also become more diverse, with developers from all walks of life creating games that reflect their unique perspectives and experiences.
Mainstream Recognition
In recent years, indie games have gained mainstream recognition, with many indie titles winning prestigious awards at major gaming events such as the Game Developers Conference and the Independent Games Festival. This recognition has helped to elevate the status of indie games and has attracted more investment and support from the gaming community.
The Future of Indie Games
The future of indie games looks bright, with many industry experts predicting that indie games will continue to play a significant role in the gaming industry. With the rise of new technologies and distribution platforms, indie developers have access to more tools and resources than ever before, enabling them to create games that push the boundaries of what is possible in the gaming world.
Challenges for Indie Games
Despite the growth and success of indie games, there are still challenges that indie developers face. These challenges include competition from larger game studios, limited resources, and difficulties in marketing and distributing their games. However, many indie developers remain undeterred, driven by their passion for creating unique and innovative games that inspire and engage players worldwide.
The Impact of Indie Games on the Gaming Industry
The impact of indie games on the gaming industry cannot be overstated. Indie games have redefined what it means to be a game, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and inspiring new generations of gamers and developers. As the industry continues to evolve, indie games will undoubtedly play a critical role in shaping the future of gaming, offering unique and innovative experiences that captivate and delight players around the world.
The Opportunities for Aspiring Indie Gamers
As the gaming industry continues to grow and evolve, there are now more opportunities than ever before for aspiring indie game developers to make a name for themselves and achieve financial success. While the path to success may be difficult and filled with obstacles, the potential rewards are enormous. Here are just a few of the opportunities that aspiring indie game developers should be aware of:
Crowdfunding Platforms
One of the most popular ways for indie game developers to fund their projects is through crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo. These platforms allow developers to pitch their game to a wide audience and receive funding from backers who are interested in supporting their project. In return, backers receive rewards such as early access to the game, exclusive merchandise, or even a chance to be involved in the development process.
Game Jams
Game jams are short, intense periods of game development that are typically organized around a specific theme or challenge. These events are a great way for aspiring indie game developers to hone their skills, meet other developers, and showcase their work to potential investors or publishers. Many game jams also offer prizes or other incentives to encourage participation and foster creativity.
Indie Game Conferences and Events
Indie game conferences and events are a great way for developers to network with other professionals in the industry, learn about new trends and technologies, and showcase their work to potential investors or publishers. These events often feature keynote speakers, panel discussions, and exhibitions of the latest indie games.
Indie Game Incubators and Accelerators
Indie game incubators and accelerators are programs that provide mentorship, funding, and other resources to help indie game developers bring their projects to market. These programs are often highly competitive, but they can provide a valuable launchpad for aspiring indie game developers who are looking to break into the industry.
By taking advantage of these opportunities, aspiring indie game developers can increase their chances of success and make a name for themselves in the industry. With hard work, dedication, and a little bit of luck, it is possible to achieve financial success and become one of the richest indie gamers in the world.
FAQs
1. Who is the richest gamer in the world?
There are many successful gamers in the world, but when it comes to wealth, there is one gamer who stands out above the rest. According to various sources, the richest gamer in the world is currently Kyle Giersdorf, also known as “Bugha.” He is a professional Fortnite player from the United States who rose to fame by streaming his gameplay on Twitch and YouTube. In 2019, he won the Fortnite World Cup and took home a staggering $3 million in prize money. Since then, he has continued to earn money through sponsorships, streaming, and other ventures, making him one of the wealthiest gamers in the world.
2. How did Kyle Giersdorf become the richest gamer in the world?
Kyle Giersdorf, also known as “Bugha,” became the richest gamer in the world through his success in the popular video game Fortnite. He started playing the game at a young age and quickly became skilled at it. In 2018, he started streaming his gameplay on Twitch and YouTube, which caught the attention of many viewers. He gained a large following and eventually signed with a professional esports team, Team SoloMid (TSM).
In 2019, Bugha competed in the Fortnite World Cup and won first place, earning him a whopping $3 million in prize money. This victory catapulted him to fame and helped him secure numerous sponsorship deals with companies like Red Bull and Samsung. Since then, he has continued to earn money through streaming, sponsorships, and other ventures, making him one of the wealthiest gamers in the world.
3. How much money does Kyle Giersdorf make?
It’s difficult to estimate exactly how much money Kyle Giersdorf, also known as “Bugha,” makes, as his income likely varies from year to year. However, we do know that he has earned some impressive sums of money from his success in the gaming world.
In 2019, Bugha won the Fortnite World Cup and took home $3 million in prize money. Since then, he has continued to earn money through sponsorships, streaming, and other ventures. According to some reports, he has earned tens of millions of dollars from these sources alone. In addition, he has signed endorsement deals with companies like Red Bull and Samsung, which likely bring in a significant amount of money as well.
Overall, it’s safe to say that Kyle Giersdorf is one of the wealthiest gamers in the world, with a net worth that is likely in the tens or even hundreds of millions of dollars.
4. Is Kyle Giersdorf the only rich gamer?
Kyle Giersdorf, also known as “Bugha,” is currently the richest gamer in the world, but there are many other successful gamers who have also earned significant sums of money.
For example, Tyler “Ninja” Blevins is another well-known professional gamer who has earned millions of dollars through streaming, sponsorships, and other ventures. Other successful gamers include Dr. Disrespect, PewDiePie, and Faker, among many others.
Overall, the gaming industry is a lucrative one, and there are many opportunities for gamers to earn money through competitions, streaming, sponsorships, and other sources. While Kyle Giersdorf may currently be the richest gamer in the world, there are many other successful gamers who have also earned substantial sums of money.