10 Best Apps That Pay You to Play Games

Imagine getting rewarded while doing something you already love — playing games on your phone. In 2026, earning extra cash or gift cards from mobile games is not just a gimmick from viral ads; there are legitimate apps and platforms that reward your time and skill. However, it’s important to set realistic expectations: these are generally side‑income opportunities, not full‑time earnings.

Below is a curated list of the 10 best apps that pay you to play games, ranked by popularity, earning methods, payout options, and user experience.

1. Mistplay

Best for Android gamers who want gift card rewards

Overview: Mistplay is widely regarded as one of the most consistent and trusted platforms that rewards you for playing mobile games.
How it works:

• You download Mistplay on Android and then install games through the app.
• As you play, you earn units based on playtime and level achievements.
• Units can be redeemed for popular gift cards (Amazon, Google Play, Xbox, etc.).

Why it’s great:

• No cash needed to start — just play games you enjoy.
• Offers a large variety of genres and titles.

Limitations:

• Android only (no iOS version).
• Earnings tend to be modest and accumulate slowly.

Best for: Casual players earning gift cards and rewards.

2. Swagbucks (Games + More)

Best for variety: games, quizzes, and rewards

Overview: Swagbucks is not strictly a gaming app, but it has a strong game rewards section. You earn SB points which can convert into PayPal cash or gift cards.

How it works:

• Play games within the app or participate in game offers.
• Earn SB points for game milestones.
• Redeem points for money or gift cards.

Why it’s great:

• Offers multiple earning avenues (surveys, videos, shopping, plus games).
• Low entry barrier and flexible redemption.

Limitations:

• Some games reward very low points.
• The fastest earnings often come from non‑gaming tasks.

Best for: Players who want diversified ways to earn, not just through gaming.

3. Freecash

Good for casual players with flexible reward options

Overview: Freecash has gained traction as an intuitive platform where you can earn money by playing games, completing tasks, or trying offers.

How it works:

• Complete game offers (install, play to a level, or finish tasks).
• Earn points that you can cash out via PayPal or gift cards.

Pros:

• Clean interface and simple rewards.
• Offers many games to try.

Cons:

• Some offers vary significantly in payout and difficulty.

Best for: Users who want simple, varied ways to earn small amounts regularly.

4. Cash Giraffe

Great for beginners with low payout thresholds

Overview: Cash Giraffe is a fast‑growing rewards app available on Android and iOS. It stands out for its low payout minimum and variety of small games.

How it works:

• Earn coins by playing games or completing tasks.
• Withdrawal minimum can be as low as $0.20 via PayPal or gift cards.

Why it’s great:

• Very low cash‑out barrier.
• Suitable for casual users and short gaming sessions.

Limitations:

• Individual game earnings are small; you need consistent use.

Best for: Gamers who want quick, small payouts regularly.

5. JustPlay

Quick payouts for game time

Overview: JustPlay rewards users simply for the time they spend playing mobile games.

How it works:

• Download the app and play selected games.
• Earn points that are redeemable for PayPal cash.

Highlight:

• Some users report cashing out within a few hours of play.

Best for: Players who want a straightforward play‑to‑earn experience with fast payouts.

6. InboxDollars Games

Good for word and casual game lovers

Overview: InboxDollars has a dedicated gaming rewards section where you earn cash for playing casual games like Solitaire, Mahjong, and Match‑3 titles.

How it works:

• Play games and earn small amounts of cash.
• Bonuses and daily rewards boost earnings.

Pros:

• Straight dollars rather than points.
• Long‑running and reputable rewards platform.

Cons:

• Earnings per game session are typically modest.
• Best for: Casual mobile gamers and puzzle lovers.

7. Skillz‑Powered Games (e.g., Solitaire Cube, 21 Blitz)

Best for competitive players

Overview: Skillz is a platform hosting many real‑money competitive games. Titles like Solitaire Cube, 21 Blitz, and Dominoes pay you for winning games against other players.

How it works:

• Enter contests with small entry fees.
• Win cash prizes by beating opponents.

Pros:

• Competitive gameplay with real payouts.
• Highly engaging for skilled players.

Cons:

• Some games require an entry fee.
• Higher risk/reward than simple reward apps.

Best for: Skilled gamers seeking competitive payouts.

8. KashKick

Balanced games + reward offers

Overview: KashKick blends casual games with tasks and offers that pay you to reach milestones.

How it works:

• Play games and hit milestones for direct payouts.
• Some tasks and offers boost earning potential.

Pros:

• Mix of gameplay and earning opportunities.
• iOS and Android availability.

Cons:

• Cashbacks are usually small unless you complete larger offers.
• Best for: Mobile gamers who like variety in earning activities.

9. Bingo Cash / Solitaire Cash

Good for classic game players

Overview: These apps turn beloved classics into earning opportunities — you compete in real‑money tournaments.

How they work:

• Play Bingo or Solitaire tournaments against others.
• Earn money if you rank high in games.

Pros:

• Familiar and addictive games.
• Rewards based on skill and placement.

Cons:

• Earnings depend on winning against other players.
• May involve entry fees or contests for top prizes.

Best for: Fans of Bingo and Solitaire who want to earn from their skills.

10. Playtime & Tester Buddy (Novel Rewards)

Great for testing and varied games

Overview: These apps are newer alternatives that pay you to either play games or test games and provide feedback, often with instant reward systems.

How they work:

• Play new or featured games.
• Earn points or cash for reaching levels or completing tests.

Pros:

• Fresh games and often low commitment.
• Some offer instant cashouts.

Cons:

• Smaller cash flow compared to larger platforms.
• Reward amounts depend on task complexity.

Best for: Users who like variety and trying new games.

Tips Before You Start

Realistic Expectations
These apps are best for side income — don’t expect huge earnings. Most users make between a few dollars to about $30–$50 per month with consistent play.

Read Terms & Age Ratings
Some competitive cash‑gaming apps require entry fees or have skill‑based tournaments that may feel like gambling if you lose money.

Watch Out for Scams
Be wary of platforms that promise huge earnings for minimal effort — most are too good to be true. Always read reviews in the Play Store or App Store.

Tax & Legal Considerations
In some countries (like India), earnings from online gaming may have tax implications. Make sure you understand local laws if you plan to cash out regularly.

Conclusion

Earning money while playing games is more feasible in 2026 than ever. From casual reward apps like Mistplay and Swagbucks to competitive arenas like Skillz‑powered games, there’s something for every type of gamer. The key is to play smart, choose apps with transparent payout systems, and treat these opportunities as fun side hustles, not substitutes for regular income.