eSports is no longer just a niche hobby and has now evolved into a billion-dollar industry with millions of fans worldwide. The growing popularity of it has given rise to a new trend—eSports betting. Casinos are now embracing this shift, as more people are now placing stakes on video games.
This has changed the way people think about gambling, and ultimately, has reshaped the entire industry. If you regularly use your www.betamo.com/games/blackjack login, you could also become the next best player on their VIP lists, as after all, what could be better than putting stakes on video game titles that you already know and love?
What is eSports?
Esports, also known as electronic sports, is the organized competition of video games. It means that professionals engage themselves in a series of contests with massive jackpots. These include first-person shooters such as Counter-Strike, and Call of Duty. Strategy games such as League of Legends, and Dota 2 are also beloved. It is highly organized with teams, sponsors and global audiences. Millions tune into these tournaments, either online through streams on Twitch or live at stadiums.
The popularity of it led to the rise of betting on these competitions. As normal, people can wager on things such as which team will triumph, which performer will shine, or how long the match will take. This created a new income channel for casinos and betting firms, as they now had to serve a digital generation that wanted to interact with the titles they grew up with.
The global pandemic played a huge role in catapulting the scene to the mainstream. When traditional sports were cancelled or postponed, such contests could continue online. It drew in wagerers who were looking for new ways to gamble. Second, the growth of live streaming has made it easier to watch matches in real time, making it more interactive and appealing.
How Casinos Are Adapting
Casinos are well aware of this shift and are now offering wagering options alongside their traditional services. Some have even gone as far as creating user lounges, where spectators can access live streams of major contests. This new approach is transforming the floor, as slot machines and table games now share space with high-tech video game setups.
Many online websites have also jumped on the trend. They now have betting markets for various eSports tournaments, making it easy for people to take part from their phones or computers. Its digital nature perfectly fits into other platforms, tapping into a younger audience that prefers online interactions.
The Appeal to Younger Generations
One of the reasons this trend has been on the rise is because it has embraced the youth. While traditional casinos are generally considered more popular among consumers in the older age range, this is more associated with the category of under 40. Since millennials and Gen Z grew up with video games, this feels more natural than putting money down on classic categories like cricket or horse racing.
Casinos recognize this trend and are using it to attract younger customers. They are modernizing their offerings to meet the expectations of this audience. Some casinos have even partnered with major names and leagues to host special events and tournaments.
Popular eSports Titles and Tournaments
Below are some of the most popular major eSports tournaments:
1. League of Legends (LoL)
Annual Tournament: LoL World Championship (Worlds)
Date: Typically held in October to November
2. Dota 2
Annual Tournament: The International (TI)
Date: Usually held in August
3. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS: GO)
Annual Tournament: ESL Pro League, IEM Katowice, PGL Major
Dates: ESL Pro League runs throughout the year in seasons, IEM Katowice is in February, and PGL Major happens in May or November.
4. Fortnite
Annual Tournament: Fortnite World Cup
Date: Traditionally held in July (dates can vary)
5. Call of Duty
Annual Tournament: Call of Duty League (CDL) Championship
Date: Generally held in August. This championship is the highest level of competitive CoD, drawing top talent from across the planet.
6. Valorant
Annual Tournament: Valorant Champions Tour (VCT)
Date: The VCT runs year-round with the Grand Final in September. It has quickly become one of the top titles with intense contenders.
7. Rocket League
Annual Tournament: Rocket League Championship Series (RLCS) World Championship
Date: Held in August. This hybrid soccer/racing draws in fans for high-energy stakes.
Challenges and Opportunities
Regulation remains one of the biggest issues as there are very many ways to enforce this term. Online gambling is legal in many countries, yet still rather ambiguous in other nations and their legislation. Others fear that there are likely to be issues such as match-fixes or people developing addiction to it.
Yet, there is also enormous potential. As more places establish clear regulations for it, the demand is expected to grow even further. Experts predict that it could rival the standard market soon.
