Earn Gift Cards by Playing Games (Legit & Easy Methods)

Gift cards have become one of the most popular digital rewards today. From online stores like Amazon and Walmart to gaming platforms such as Steam and Google Play, almost every major brand offers gift cards as an easy way to shop or subscribe online.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best legitimate ways to earn free gift cards online, what actually works, and how to avoid common scams.

How to Get Free Gift Cards Online (With Minimal Effort)

There’s no such thing as truly “free” gift cards with zero effort—but several methods let you earn them with minimal time and risk:

Online surveys – Share your opinions and earn gift cards as rewards

Reward and GPT platforms – Complete tasks, offers, or games for points

Cashback apps – Earn gift cards while shopping online

Referral programs – Get bonuses for inviting friends

Receipt scanning apps – Upload receipts and earn rewards

Watching videos or playing games – Get paid for engagement

Credit card rewards – Redeem points for gift cards

1. Paid surveys

Data is one of the most valuable assets in today’s digital economy. Companies pay for real user feedback to improve their products and services, which is why paid surveys remain one of the easiest ways to earn gift cards online.

Platforms like Freeward, Swagbucks, and Survey Junkie connect users with legitimate survey providers and allow them to redeem rewards for popular gift cards such as Amazon, Steam, and Google Play.

2. Earn while searching

Most people search the web daily without realizing that some platforms reward users for it. Certain market research companies collect anonymous search data to understand online trends—and pay users in return.

Some market research companies would like to know about trends, interests, and user behavior so they track your searches and let their systems learn about the latest trends and demands on the internet.

They’d pay you if you use their custom search engine or extension to gather their data. One of the popular platforms in this field is Swagbucks which has its own search engine and lets you earn free gift cards just by using its search engine. Another good option is InboxDollars which also has its own search engine.

To discover the most effective GPT Sites for making money online, visit our comprehensive guide on ‘GPT Sites: The right platforms to make money online.‘

3. Earn gift cards for playing games

Many game developers reward users for trying new games or reaching specific milestones. In exchange, players earn points that can later be redeemed for gift cards.

Similar to paid surveys, many reward platforms allow you to earn points or virtual coins simply by playing games. Once you complete specific in-game tasks or reach certain levels, you can redeem those points for gift cards. Some popular platforms in this space include Idle-Empire, which supports Steam and also offers in-game skins and virtual currencies as rewards.

Freeward is another legitimate option for earning gift cards by playing games. After signing up, you’ll find several active offer walls featuring mobile apps and games. Each offer clearly explains what you need to do and how long it may take to complete.

For example, an offer like Board Kings (available on Android and iOS) may reward you for installing the game and reaching a specific level within a set time frame. Completing that offer earns you virtual coins, which can then be exchanged for a gift card—making it possible to earn rewards simply by playing a game you enjoy.

4. Use a browser extension

There are many shopping extensions that have a cashback program. Once you install them, they will help you find deals and promo codes. Therefore you can enjoy shopping while you save money and besides you earn free gift cards. Two popular of them are Capital One Shopping and Honey which help you find coupon codes on various online stores.

5. Watch videos to earn

Some platforms reward users for watching sponsored videos or promotional content. While earnings are usually small, this method can be a simple way to collect extra points toward gift cards.

The platform works similarly to the previous ones we mentioned, you watch videos to get virtual coins/money and you will be able to redeem them for your favorite reward.

Tips to Avoid Scams

If a website promises free gift cards with no effort or verification, it’s usually a red flag. Legitimate platforms always require some form of participation.

1. Be skeptical: If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Exercise caution and common sense when dealing with websites or services promising free gift cards.
2. Avoid sharing personal information: Never provide sensitive information like your Social Security number, bank details, or credit card information to unknown websites or services.
3. Verify website authenticity: Check for HTTPS in the website’s URL and look for trust indicators like security seals to ensure the website is secure.
4. Research the website or service: Look for online reviews and testimonials from other users to determine the legitimacy and reliability of the platform.
5. Be cautious with email or text messages: Avoid clicking on links or responding to unsolicited messages promising free gift cards, especially if they ask for personal information.
6. Stick to reputable platforms: Use well-known and established websites, apps, or services that are known for offering legitimate gift card rewards.
7. Read the terms and conditions: Understand the rules and requirements for earning gift cards on a particular platform to avoid any surprises or hidden fees.
8. Report suspicious activities: If you come across a potential scam or fraudulent website, report it to relevant authorities or consumer protection agencies.

Best website to get free gift cards

Here are some of the best websites to earn gift cards:

• Freeward: A task-based earning platform that lets users earn gift cards by completing surveys, playing games, and engaging with online offers.
• Swagbucks: This is one of the most popular websites for earning gift cards. You can earn points by taking surveys, watching videos, shopping online, and more.
• MyPoints: This is another popular website that offers a variety of ways to earn points. You can earn points by shopping online, taking surveys, reading emails, and more.
• InboxDollars: This website offers a variety of ways to earn money, including taking surveys, reading emails, watching videos, and shopping online. You can redeem your earnings with gift cards or cash.
• Survey Junkie: This website specializes in surveys, and you can earn points by taking surveys on a variety of topics. You can redeem your points for gift cards or cash.
• PrizeRebel: This website offers a variety of ways to earn points, including taking surveys, watching videos, and shopping online. You can redeem your points for gift cards or cash.
• Rakuten: This website offers cash back when you shop online at over 2,500 stores. You can also earn points by taking surveys and referring friends.
• Ibotta: This app offers cash back when you buy groceries and other items at participating stores. You can also earn points by taking surveys and referring friends.
• Shopkick: This app offers points when you scan products in stores, visit certain stores, and make purchases. You can redeem your points for gift cards or cash.

Summary

Earning free gift cards online is possible—but it always requires time, participation, or engagement. Legitimate methods include surveys, reward platforms, cashback apps, and referral programs.

To stay safe, avoid offers that sound too good to be true, never share sensitive personal information, and stick to trusted platforms with real user reviews.