Ah, eSports. It might seem like a recent phenomenon for the uninitiated, but competitive gaming has been around for centuries. The first recorded eSports match occurred in 1972 at Stanford University, where two students faced off in a game of Spacewar. While the prize pool for that particular tournament was a measly $50, it laid the foundations for the multi-billion dollar industry we know today. So how did we get here? Let’s take a look.
The Evolution Of eSports
The world of eSports as we know them today started taking shape in the 1980s with the advent of arcade culture and games like Space Invaders and Pac-Man. While people were already competing against each other in these games, it wasn’t until Atari held the Space Invaders Championship in 1980 that competitive gaming became more organized. From there, the entire thing snowballed; by the late 1980s, Nintendo World Championships and Street Fighter tournaments became worldwide. The movie “Wizard,” released in 1989, even features a fictional account of the NWC. By the time the 1990s came around, the Internet had become more widely available, leading to the rise of online gaming and, eventually, online tournaments. The first such tournament was held in 1997 and featured the game Quake.
The popularity Of eSports
It’s no secret that eSports have seen a massive surge in popularity in recent years. According to a report from Newzoo, the global eSports economy will reach $1.1 billion by 2019. The growth has several factors, including increased online streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube Gaming and traditional media companies investing in eSports (like ESPN’s partnership with Blizzard for Overwatch League coverage). With such a massive audience comes big money; according to Forbes, the top 10% of eSports athletes make more than $60,000 yearly from salaries, winnings, and sponsorships. And things will only continue to grow; Newzoo predicts that the global eSports audience will reach nearly 600 million people by 2023.
The Games People Play
So what are people watching when they tune into an eSports broadcast? The most popular genres are shooters (like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and Overwatch), MOBAs (like League of Legends), and fighting games (like Street Fighter and Super Smash Bros.). These games are popular because they’re easy to understand yet challenging to master; they’re also entertaining to watch, thanks to the fast-paced nature of the gameplay.
The Business Of eSports
Like any other sport, money runs eSports —from fans buying tickets to events or watching online and brands investing in sponsorships and advertising. And those brands are indeed pouring money into the space; according to CNBC, global spending on eSports should hit $694 million this year alone. That number will only increase as more traditional companies invest in eSports teams and tournaments. For example, earlier this year, T-Mobile became the title sponsor of Major League Gaming’s multiplayer arena in Las Vegas.
What’s Next For eSports?
So, where do we go from here? It’s safe to say that eSports isn’t going anywhere; if anything, they’re only going to become more popular as time goes on. We’ll see even more investment from traditional brands and media companies, larger prize pools for tournaments, and—fingers crossed—more recognition for professional gamers as athletes (and not just basement-dwelling nerds). So whether you’re a big fan or just getting into the scene, buckle up—it’s going to be one hell of a ride.
Frequently Asked Questions About Esports Betting
"Skin betting" is a form of betting that uses in-game items, also known as "skins," as a form of currency. These skins can be earned or purchased in-game, and can be used to bet on the outcome of esports matches or other in-game items or real money. Skin betting can take place through third-party websites that use skins as a form of currency, or through the use of in-game trading platforms that allow players to exchange skins with one another. The practice of skin betting has been controversial, with some arguing that it constitutes illegal gambling, while others argue that it is a legitimate form of virtual currency trading.
The process of determining odds for esports matches can vary depending on the bookmaker or the betting platform. In general, the odds will reflect the perceived likelihood of a particular team or player winning a match.
One way that odds are determined is through the use of statistical analysis and data. Bookmakers will use historical data on teams and players to evaluate their performance, and use this information to set odds. They will also take into account current events and factors that might influence a match, such as injuries or roster changes.
Another way odds are determined is through the use of public betting patterns. Bookmakers will track the bets that are placed on a particular match, and adjust the odds based on the amount of money that is being placed on each side. This can create a feedback loop, where the odds are influenced by the bets being placed, which in turn influences where people place their bets.
Bookmakers also use expert analysis and predictions from professional players and analysts to set odds. They also take into account the general perception of the teams and players on the scene, their performance on the previous tournaments, and the map pool.
It is important to note that the odds for esports matches can change frequently and rapidly in the lead-up to a match and during the match as well. So it's advisable to keep an eye on the odds and make sure to place your bets at the right time.
In-game items and virtual currencies can play a significant role in esports betting. As mentioned before, "skin betting" is a form of betting that uses in-game items, also known as "skins," as a form of currency. These skins can be earned or purchased in-game, and can be used to bet on the outcome of esports matches or other in-game items or real money.
Skins can also be used to purchase virtual currency, which can then be used to place bets on esports matches. Some bookmakers or betting platforms offer the option to use virtual currency to place bets, in addition to or instead of real money.
In-game items and virtual currencies can also be used as prizes in esports betting. For example, a bookmaker may offer a skin or virtual currency as a prize to the winner of a betting pool or competition.
In-game items and virtual currencies can also be bought and sold on third-party marketplaces for real money. This means that players can earn real money by selling in-game items that they have earned or purchased. This creates a whole economy around in-game items and virtual currencies, which factors into esports betting.
It's important to note that while some sites are legitimate, many are not, and the use of in-game items and virtual currencies for betting can be risky. Players should be aware of the legal and regulatory issues surrounding skin betting, and should only use licensed and regulated platforms.
Yes, here are a few tips and strategies for successful esports betting:
- Research and stay informed: Keep up to date with the latest news and developments in the esports scene. This includes information on teams, players, tournaments, and game updates.
- Understand the game: Have a good understanding of the game you're betting on, including the rules, strategies, and the current meta.
- Use statistics: Use statistics to help you make informed decisions. There are various websites that provide statistics on teams and players, including their performance in past matches and tournaments.
- Keep track of odds: Keep track of the odds for the matches you're interested in betting on, and make sure to place your bets at the right time.
- Manage your bankroll: Set a budget for your bets and stick to it. Don't chase your losses, and never bet more than you can afford to lose.
- Have discipline: Have discipline and control over your emotions, avoid impulsive betting.
- Shop around for the best odds: Different bookmakers will offer different odds for the same match, so make sure to shop around for the best deal.
- Specialize in a specific game or league: It's better to specialize in a specific game or league rather than trying to follow everything.
- Never overlook the underdogs: Don't overlook the underdogs, as they can sometimes pull off an upset, and offer better odds.
- Use a betting exchange: Consider using a betting exchange, which allows you to bet against other players rather than against a bookmaker.
It's worth noting that while these tips and strategies can help increase your chances of winning, there is no guarantee of success in esports betting, and it's always important to gamble responsibly.
Yes, we do offer bonuses for new players, such as sign-up bonuses, referral bonuses, and loyalty bonuses. These bonuses can be in the form of free bets, deposit matches, or cashback.
Yes, many online esports betting sites offer live betting, which allows players to place bets on ongoing esports matches.
The most popular esports to bet on include games like League of Legends, Dota 2, CS:GO, and Overwatch.
