Being a professional gamer is a dream job for millions of people today. However, to this date, no one has been able to stay in the competitive scene well into their elderly years. Which begs the question, what do pros do after they’re done gaming?
What’s Next for Pro Gamers After Retirement?
The world is their oyster! Achieving so much at what often ends up being such a young age leaves them with nothing but options. At the very least, it’s sure to leave them with a sense of confidence, knowing they can be at the highest level in the world at something. What do they choose to do with all the momentum they gain?
Streaming, Casting, and Content Creating
At first glance, esports may seem immensely different and modern compared to older fields. While this is true, there are still many similarities. One of them is the fact that people like to stay in the industry! A lot of them decide to stick with what they know Why do pro players retire in the first place?
More often than not, it’s due to the immense pressure and stress put upon them. Pro gamers know one wrong move can get in the way between them and thousands to millions of dollars. It’s a lot to take in having an income that can fluctuate so much. Becoming an influencer in the space solves all these problems, and you still get to take advantage of your immense gameplay knowledge and passion for your favorite game.
Coaching
Just like any other competitive event, the best players are often made great thanks to their great coaches. Coaching is ideal for competitors past their prime, in either skill or motivation, to continue reaching for the top. Of course, not all coaches seek out prodigies. Many offer their talents to multiple different interested players!
If you look right now at your favorite competitive game, chances are you’ll find a pro willing to help you improve! By the way, if you ever need to search on your phone, don’t forget to enable JavaScript on your iPhone. You’ll thank us later.
Comeback!
It turns out the intense competitive drive that pushes these players to be the best of the best can be a bit more tenacious than many first expect. Clawing your way to the top despite the world and all obstacles is a feeling few ever get to experience. Sure, they may take a momentary break from the grind, but the allure of the pedestal is a strong one.
Even players who may not wish to revisit the game they rode the top, be it from enjoyment decay or feeling like they’ve accomplished everything they need to, will often want to flex their skills in another game. The most ambitious among them will even switch entire genres!
Go Back To School or Work
I’m sure a lot of people think that’s crazy! Leave behind a career as a professional gamer for school? Millions would trade in their school uniform to be professional gamers in a heartbeat! In reality, some realize that there are just things they’d rather be doing. Maybe it’s because they don’t feel like what they do is meaningful, or perhaps the pressure is too much. Whatever the reason, the esports industry is likely not to be the last place they work.
It’s Not an Epilogue – It’s a Sequel
To many fans and industry outsiders, it’s easy to assume retiring is a step down for players. Fortunately, that’s not the case! Being a pro video gamer is just one chapter in the rich lives of these well-rounded people. Of course, the few who are fortunate enough to win enough for a lifetime might focus solely on enjoying their retirement. Hopefully, one day we’ll all be doing the same!
