I wouldn't say that it is the same with or without a network. Being partnered with a full blown network like RPM opposed to the regular youtube partnership offered is a totally different experience.
"Monetizing" gaming videos with a regular non network partnership is often futile because youtube doesn't allow a large amount of videos (especially for popular games) to be monetized, and quite frankly, they never explain why.
"Claiming" your videos at an audiovisual level with a network partnership such as RPM often results in far more favorable results. Videos that get denied for non network monetization, often have a FAR FAR FAR better chance of being successfully "claimed" when with an established youtube network.
Being monetized and being claimed have the same effect in the sense that they both earn you income. However being partnered with a network, and not just a youtube partnership allows you to have much more creative freedom, and it also allows you to put different types of ads on your material.
Regardless, still be cautious of copyright.