Top payment options for video gaming in 2025

The global video gaming industry is thriving. With over 3 billion active players and many monetization models, having the right mix of payment options is critical for maximising conversions and player satisfaction.

Let’s break down the best payment methods for video gaming in 2025 and why each one matters.

E-wallets: Familiar and mobile-first

E-wallets remain a top choice for gamers due to their speed, security, and ease of use. It’s worth paying special attention to region-specific wallets such as GCash (Philippines), Dana (Indonesia), and M-Pesa (Kenya). That way you can have deep penetration not only in developed but also in emerging markets.

Why they work:

• Speed: Transactions are processed quickly, allowing gamers to access content without delay.
• Convenience: Many wallets are linked to mobile phones, making it easy to pay with a few taps.
• Security: Users don’t need to share their bank or card details directly with gaming platforms, reducing fraud risk. 
• High trust factor: E-wallets are a preferred method in countries where bank cards are not widely used.

E-wallets are also ideal for cross-border purchases and enable recurring payments for game subscriptions. 

Pay by Bank: Secure and quick

Open banking has transformed the way users pay online. With Payop’s Pay by Bank solution, players can authorise payments directly from their bank accounts in real time. It will especially appeal to younger users who appreciate the convenience and ease of payment.

Why it works: 

• No delays: This A2A payments are processed in real-time. No waiting around for a payment confirmation – the game goes on. 
• High success rates: Open banking reduces the chance of failed transactions or card declines.
• Improved security: With direct authorisation from the payer’s account and data encryption and tokenization, there is practically no risk of chargebacks or fraud. 

This method is growing in popularity across Europe due to the high focus on quality of user experience and security. 

Prepaid cards: Control and accessibility

Prepaid payment methods, like Neoserf, are perfect for players who don’t have bank accounts or prefer anonymous spending. 

Why it works: 

• Budget control: Prepaid cards help players (especially teens) avoid overspending.
• Anonymity: No need to enter banking or personal data.
• Accessibility: Available for customers without access to traditional banking, prepaid cards can be easily bought at convenience stores, kiosks, and online retailers.

This method is extremely popular with teenagers and in markets with low banking penetration.

Cryptocurrency: Modern and tech-savvy

While crypto remains a niche payment method, some services now accept Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins.

Why it works: 

• Borderless transactions: Ideal for global gamers with limited access to traditional banking.
• Fast and irreversible: Reduces chargeback risk for merchants.
• Privacy-focused: No need to share identity or banking information.
• Decentralised: Appeals to players in countries with unstable fiat currencies.

While adoption remains limited due to regulatory uncertainty and volatility, crypto payments are likely to grow alongside the gaming industry.

Mobile carrier billing: Mobile-optimised and instant

Mobile carrier billing, or direct carrier billing (DCB), allows players to charge in-game purchases directly to their mobile phone bill or prepaid balance. Providers like Boku and DAOPAY support this method.

Why it works: 

• No bank account needed: Great for underbanked regions or younger players.
• One-tap payments: Extremely user-friendly and mobile-optimized.
• Instant access: Gamers can buy virtual currency, skins, or passes right from their phones.

The main downside is transaction limits and higher fees, but the simplicity and accessibility make it popular in emerging markets like Africa, Southeast Asia, and parts of the Middle East.

Power up your game with Payop

Payop supports over 500 payment methods across 170+ countries – designed to meet the needs of global gamers. From open banking to mobile wallets, prepaid cards, and local options, Payop ensures every transaction is fast, secure, and smooth.

With Payop, players can complete purchases seamlessly – without delays, distractions, or complicated checkout steps – so they can stay focused on what really matters: enjoying the game.