> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://whitepaper.runehero.io/rune-hero/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://whitepaper.runehero.io/rune-hero/economy/how-to-earn.md).

# How to Earn

Rune Hero offers several ways for players to earn rewards or create value.

Some rewards come directly from the game, while others depend on competition, resource demand, or transactions between players.

### Earning Paths

| Path                        | What Players Do                                                                          | Potential Rewards                                       |
| --------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Seasonal Prize Pool**     | Participate in the season and meet the published eligibility requirements                | A share of the seasonal prize pool                      |
| **Rankings and Events**     | Compete in Arena, guild competitions, launch events, and other seasonal activities       | USDT, game resources, NFTs, and other event rewards     |
| **Gameplay and Trading**    | Collect equipment and materials through Dungeons, Outland, and Life Skills               | NPC rewards or income from supported marketplace trades |
| **NFT Minting and Trading** | Collect required materials, mint supported NFTs, and choose whether to use or trade them | NFT utility or proceeds from player-to-player sales     |
| **Arcane Crystal Rental**   | List an unused Arcane Crystal for rent                                                   | Rental fees paid by other players                       |

### Seasonal Prize Pool

Each season begins with an official base prize pool, and **100% of in-game purchase revenue is added to that season’s prize pool**.

At the end of the season:

* **80% of the prize pool** is distributed for the current season according to the published reward rules;
* **20% of the prize pool** is carried forward as the seed for the next season’s prize pool.

Eligible players can receive rewards when the season is settled. The exact distribution method, eligibility requirements, and Hero Badge benefits are explained on the **Seasonal Prize Pool** page.

### Rankings and Events

Players can earn rewards by performing well in competitive activities.

These may include:

* First Day Rush;
* Arena rankings;
* Guild activity competitions;
* Guild-based Arena objectives;
* Other seasonal or limited-time events.

Rewards and ranking rules vary by event. Players should review the current season’s event pages before participating.

### Gameplay and Resource Trading

Players can obtain valuable resources through regular gameplay:

* Dungeons provide equipment and materials;
* Outland provides Aetherite, equipment, and other loot;
* Life Skills allow players to gather resources and produce useful items;
* Selected game items can be exchanged through supported markets.

Some resources can be sold directly to NPCs, while others gain value through player demand.

### NFT Minting and Trading

Selected NFTs can be minted using materials collected through gameplay.

Players who meet the relevant requirements can:

1. Collect the required materials;
2. Use those materials to mint a supported NFT;
3. Use the NFT in the game or trade it after trading becomes available.

Each collection has its own supply, minting rules, utility, and transfer conditions.

### Arcane Crystal Rental

Arcane Crystal owners can list unused Crystals for rent through the in-game marketplace.

Renters gain temporary access to the Crystal’s Energy utility, while owners receive the agreed rental fee.

Rental income depends on market demand, Crystal quality, pricing, and availability.

### What Affects Earnings

Player results may depend on:

* Game knowledge and combat performance;
* Ranking and guild participation;
* Time and Energy management;
* Character and asset development;
* Resource and upgrade costs;
* Marketplace supply and demand;
* The rules of the current season.

Rewards and marketplace income are not fixed or guaranteed. Players should consider the costs, requirements, and risks of each path before participating.