What is the TikTok Gaming Creator Program?
The TikTok Gaming Creator Program is an initiative launched by TikTok to support gaming creators on their platform. It provides gaming creators access to special features and benefits to help them reach new audiences and grow their channel.
The program is designed for established gaming creators who regularly post gaming-related content on TikTok. To be eligible, creators need to have at least 25,000 authentic followers and 10,000 video views in the last 30 days. Creators should also post original, high-quality gaming content frequently.
According to TikTok, some benefits of joining the program include access to licensed music from TikTok’s music library for use in your gaming videos, opportunities to collaborate with brands through the TikTok Creator Marketplace, getting featured on TikTok’s gaming editorial pages like @TikTokGaming, and access to special effects and filters. There are also opportunities to earn revenue through TikTok’s creator fund.
Overall, the TikTok Gaming Creator Program aims to provide gaming creators with additional tools and support to continue growing their audience and enhancing their gaming content on TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/creators/creator-portal/en-us/how-to-level-up-your-gaming-content/creating-gaming-content-on-tiktok/).
TikTok Gaming Creator Program Eligibility
To qualify for the TikTok Gaming Creator Program, your account must meet certain thresholds for followers, views, and posting frequency. Specifically, your TikTok account must have:
- At least 25,000 authentic followers
- At least 300,000 authentic video views in the last 30 days
- At least 4 video uploads in the last 30 days
TikTok looks at your overall account engagement when evaluating eligibility. Having strong audience interaction, such as comments and shares, can help strengthen your application. TikTok wants to see that you have an established, engaged gaming audience on the platform.
Your content itself must also meet TikTok’s guidelines. At least 90% of your videos in the last 30 days must be focused on gaming content. This includes playing games, discussing games, reviewing games, reacting to gaming content, and more. Livestreams of gaming content also count.
In addition, accounts must be in “good standing” to qualify. Your videos should not have any recent violations of TikTok’s Community Guidelines.
Meeting these thresholds is the minimum needed to be considered, but does not guarantee acceptance. TikTok looks at each channel individually when reviewing applications.
How to Apply for the TikTok Gaming Program
Here are the key steps to follow when applying for the TikTok Gaming Creator Program:
1. Open the TikTok app and go to your profile page. Tap the three-dot menu icon in the top-right corner and select “Creator Portal”.
2. In the Creator Portal, go to the “Programs” tab. Select “TikTok Gaming” from the list of available programs.
3. Review the eligibility requirements and program details. Make sure your account and content meet the criteria before applying.
4. Tap “Apply Now” and fill out the application form. You’ll need to provide details about your gaming content, audience, and plans for future growth.
5. Upload 2-3 examples of your best performing gaming content on TikTok. This gives the review team a chance to evaluate your channel.
6. Hit submit. The TikTok team will then review your application and get back to you within 30 days. You can check your application status in the Creator Portal.
For helpful tips and winning strategies when applying, check out this guide from TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/creators/creator-portal/en-us/how-to-level-up-your-gaming-content/creating-gaming-content-on-tiktok/
Tips for Creating a Strong Application
To create a standout TikTok Gaming Creator Program application, focus on producing high-quality, engaging content and posting consistently. Here are some tips:
- Showcase your unique personality and passion for gaming in your videos. Let your authentic self shine through.
- Produce videos with high production value, clear audio, and crisp visuals. Invest in equipment if needed.
- Engage viewers by telling compelling stories about your gaming experiences, reacting to trending games, and starting conversations.
- Collaborate with other gaming creators to widen your audience reach and showcase your ability to work well with others.
- Post consistently, at least a few times per week, so TikTok’s algorithm surfaces your content more.
- Analyze your channel analytics to identify your best-performing content, then make more of that.
- Use relevant hashtags like #gaming and #gamer so you show up in searches.
- Promote your TikTok channel on other platforms to drive more followers.
With standout, engaging gaming content and a consistent posting schedule, you’ll have a much stronger TikTok Gaming Creator Program application.
Application Review and Approval Process
Once you submit your TikTok Gaming Creator Program application, it will go through a review process. According to TikTok, the review process aims to assess creators on the quality of their content and their commitment to posting regularly.
The full timeline for the application review process is not publicly known. However, some creators have reported waiting between 1-2 weeks before hearing back after applying. The review process seems to vary in length depending on how many applications TikTok is processing at the time.
TikTok has not released the exact criteria or acceptance rate for getting into the Gaming Creator Program. However, creators generally need to have at least 1,000 authentic followers and post original gaming content frequently to be considered. TikTok looks for gaming channels that have consistent viewership and engagement from real followers.
The program is still invite-only, meaning creators cannot request to join on their own. TikTok hand selects creators to invite based on their growth potential, audience, and content quality related to gaming. So the acceptance rate is relatively low and exclusivity is high.
Overall, patience is key when applying to the TikTok Gaming Creator Program. It may take multiple application attempts over weeks or months before getting accepted. Consistently producing quality gaming content and growing your audience is the best way to appeal to TikTok and get invited to the program.
Benefits of Joining the Program
Getting accepted into the TikTok Gaming Creator Program unlocks a number of benefits for your gaming channel and content:
Verification – Your account will receive a verified badge, lending credibility and authority to your channel.
Promotions – TikTok may promote your gaming content through various features like the FYP and gaming hashtag pages. This expands your reach and introduces you to new audiences.
Monetization – You’ll gain access to TikTok’s monetization programs like LIVE subscriber gifts, tipping, and the Creator Fund which allows you to earn money from your videos.
Analytics – The Creator Portal provides gaming creators withanalytics and insights into video performance.
Early Access – Get early access to new TikTok gaming features and products for testing and feedback.
Support – Dedicated support from TikTok’s team helps troubleshoot issues and answer questions.
Networking – Connect with other gaming creators in the program through networking events and educational opportunities.
Overall, getting accepted provides your gaming channel special status and opens up key money-making features on the platform. This recognition and access can help take your content to the next level.[1]
Program Rules and Expectations
The TikTok Gaming Creator Program has guidelines creators must follow to remain in the program. Creators should be familiar with TikTok’s Community Guidelines and follow them at all times.
Some key program rules include:
- Posting a minimum amount of gaming content per month as specified in the program terms
- Using approved hashtags like #Gaming and properly tagging game titles
- Avoiding posting content that contains nudity, violence, illegal activities, copyright violations, etc.
- Responding to TikTok’s feedback and content moderation requests in a timely manner
TikTok may provide creators with periodic content strategy updates and best practices. Creators are expected to implement this guidance and optimize their content accordingly.
TikTok also provides creators with analytics about their channel’s performance. Creators should regularly review metrics like viewer retention, likes, comments, shares, etc. and aim to improve them over time.
Maximizing Your Channel Once Accepted
Once you get accepted into the TikTok Gaming Creator Program, there are many opportunities to grow and maximize your channel. Here are some tips:
Collaborate with other gaming creators. Reach out to others in the program or established gaming creators and offer to collaborate on videos. This can help cross-promote your channels. Some video ideas could be playing multiplayer games together, reacting to each other’s content, or competing in challenges.
Try viral gaming trends and challenges. Keep an eye out for trending hashtags, sounds, effects, and challenges popping up around gaming content. Try recreating popular gaming trends with your own twist to capitalize on the hype.
Post consistently and engage with your audience. Use TikTok features like live streams, stickers, and effects to keep fans engaged. Respond to comments and questions to build community.
Optimize your videos for the TikTok algorithm. Use strong metadata including popular gaming hashtags and captions. Post at optimal times when your audience is most active. Analyze performance data to refine your content.
Consider expanding content across platforms. Cross-promote your TikTok gaming content on other platforms like YouTube or Twitch. You could even repurpose TikTok content to other formats.
Alternatives If Not Accepted
If your application to join the TikTok Gaming Creator Program is not accepted, there are still options to monetize your gaming content on TikTok.
One alternative is pursuing brand deals and sponsorships. Many brands are eager to connect with gaming influencers and will pay for sponsored content, brand promotions, and product placements in your videos. You can connect with brands directly or go through an influencer marketing platform.
TikTok also offers its standard Creator Fund which pays creators for videos that meet certain criteria. While gaming content may not always qualify, you can likely monetize some non-gaming videos through the Creator Fund.
Finally, you can always reapply for the TikTok Gaming Creator Program again in the future after further developing your channel and content. TikTok recommends waiting at least 30 days before reapplying if you get rejected initially.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about applying to, getting accepted into, and the benefits of the TikTok Gaming Creator Program:
Applying to the Program
What are the eligibility requirements to apply? You’ll need at least 25,000 authentic followers and 10,000 authentic video views in the last 30 days. Your content should also align with TikTok’s community guidelines.
How do I submit my application? You can apply by going to creators.tiktok.com and clicking “Apply Now” on the Gaming Creator Program page. You’ll need to link your TikTok account and answer some questions.
How long does it take to hear back after applying? It usually takes 1-2 weeks to receive a response after submitting your application.
Getting Accepted
What does TikTok look for in applications? TikTok evaluates your audience and engagement, video creativity, content authenticity and quality. They want creators who will take the program seriously.
If I don’t get accepted, can I reapply later? Yes, you can reapply after 30 days if you aren’t accepted on your first try.
Program Benefits
What do creators get if accepted? You’ll get early access to new TikTok features, opportunities to collaborate with brands, and invitations to events or campaigns. There is also potential monetary compensation.
Does TikTok promote your content? TikTok may help promote gaming creators through various channels, but you’ll need to build your own audience.
