eSports betting has emerged as one of the fastest-growing markets in online gambling. With competitive video gaming now attracting millions of viewers worldwide, it’s no surprise that betting on eSports has become a popular way for fans to engage with their favorite teams and players. Whether you’re into games like League of Legends, Dota 2, or Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, eSports betting offers plenty of opportunities to turn your gaming knowledge into real money.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of eSports betting, the most popular games to bet on, common betting markets, and tips to improve your chances of success.
What Is eSports Betting?
eSports betting involves wagering money on the outcomes of professional video game competitions. Just like traditional sports betting, you can place bets on a variety of markets, such as match winners, tournament outcomes, and specific in-game events.
Popular eSports titles include League of Legends, Dota 2, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS), Overwatch, and Call of Duty. These games attract large-scale tournaments with prize pools in the millions, providing plenty of betting action year-round.
eSports betting allows players to make real money by predicting the outcome of matches and tournaments. As with any form of betting, knowledge of the game, teams, and players can help you make better predictions and increase your chances of winning.
Why Is eSports Betting Popular in Online Casinos?
eSports betting has gained massive popularity in online casinos for several key reasons:
1. Growing Global Audience
eSports has a rapidly expanding fanbase, with millions of viewers tuning in to watch live tournaments and competitions. As more people get involved in watching and playing eSports, betting on these events has become a natural extension of that interest.
2. Variety of Games and Markets
eSports offers a wide range of games to bet on, from first-person shooters like CS
to strategic MOBAs like Dota 2 and League of Legends. This variety appeals to a diverse audience, and bettors have access to many different betting markets, keeping the experience fresh and exciting.
3. Interactive and Engaging
Unlike traditional sports, where the action can be slower, eSports games are fast-paced and offer intense action. This dynamic nature makes eSports betting more engaging, with bettors able to place live bets and react quickly to the flow of the game. Many online betting platforms also provide live streaming, making the betting experience even more immersive.
4. Appeal to Younger Audiences
eSports attracts a younger demographic who are already familiar with online gaming. Many of these players are eager to place bets on their favorite teams and games, making eSports betting an exciting option for a new generation of bettors.
5. Competitive Odds and Big Tournaments
With massive global tournaments like The International (Dota 2) and the League of Legends World Championship, eSports betting offers bettors the chance to wager on some of the biggest events in the world. These tournaments come with significant prize pools and often feature competitive odds, giving bettors great opportunities to win big.
History of eSports Betting
eSports has its roots in competitive gaming, which began as informal tournaments among enthusiasts in the 1970s and 1980s. Early video game competitions, like those for Space Invaders and Pong, set the stage for what would become a global industry. As gaming technology advanced, so did the complexity and excitement of competitive gaming, leading to more organized tournaments and leagues.
By the late 1990s and early 2000s, games like StarCraft and Counter-Strike began to gain popularity in professional gaming circles, particularly in South Korea, where eSports first started to take off in a big way. With the rise of broadband internet, global competitions became more accessible, and the eSports scene started to grow rapidly, with games like Warcraft III, Dota, and League of Legends emerging as the top competitive titles.
The introduction of live streaming platforms such as Twitch in the early 2010s gave eSports an even bigger boost. Fans could now watch live tournaments from anywhere in the world, and the viewing experience was enhanced by real-time commentary and player interactions. This global accessibility fueled the growth of eSports, transforming it into a multibillion-dollar industry.
With the rise in viewership and interest, eSports betting naturally followed. By the mid-2010s, many online sportsbooks began offering betting markets for major eSports events, mirroring the traditional sports betting model. Today, eSports betting is a booming part of the global online gambling industry, with millions of dollars wagered on matches and tournaments worldwide.
Popular eSports Games for Betting
There are many eSports games you can bet on, each offering its own unique gameplay and betting opportunities. Here are some of the most popular eSports titles for betting:
1. League of Legends (LoL)
League of Legends is one of the biggest eSports titles in the world. The game involves two teams of five players, each trying to destroy the other’s base. LoL tournaments like the World Championship and Mid-Season Invitational attract millions of viewers and provide plenty of betting opportunities.
2. Dota 2
Dota 2 is another massively popular multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game. It’s famous for its large prize pools, especially in tournaments like The International, which regularly offers millions in prize money. Betting on Dota 2 matches can include predicting match winners, tournament outcomes, and in-game events like the first team to destroy a tower.
3. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS)
CS is a first-person shooter where teams compete to complete objectives or eliminate each other. CS betting markets include match outcomes, the total number of rounds played, and specific events like which team will win the first round or how many kills a player will get.
4. Overwatch
Overwatch is a fast-paced, team-based shooter where players select heroes with unique abilities. The Overwatch League is one of the main events for betting on this game, offering various betting markets such as match winners, map winners, and player statistics.
5. Call of Duty (CoD)
Call of Duty is one of the most well-known first-person shooters in the world. The Call of Duty League hosts multiple events throughout the year, and bettors can place wagers on match results, individual player performances, and team statistics.
eSports Betting Markets
Just like traditional sports betting, eSports betting offers a wide range of markets for players to explore. Here are some of the most common betting markets in eSports:
1. Match Winner
This is the simplest type of eSports bet. You simply pick which team or player will win a specific match. It’s the most straightforward market for beginners to start with.
2. Map Winner
Many eSports games, such as CS
and Overwatch, are played over several maps. In this market, you bet on which team will win a specific map within the match.
3. Total Maps/Rounds Over/Under
In games that are played over multiple maps or rounds, such as CS
, you can bet on whether the total number of maps or rounds will be over or under a set number.
4. First Blood
This market is popular in games like Dota 2 and LoL, where the first team to score a kill (known as “first blood”) can have a significant impact on the rest of the match.
5. Tournament Winner
A futures bet where you place a wager on which team will win an entire tournament, rather than just a single match. This market is common in large events like The International or the LoL World Championship.
6. Player vs. Player Bets
In some eSports, you can bet on individual player performances. For example, in a CS
match, you might bet on which player will have the most kills or the highest headshot percentage.
Key Features of eSports Betting
When betting on eSports, there are several key features to consider that can enhance your overall experience:
1. Live Betting
One of the most exciting features of eSports betting is live or in-play betting, where you can place bets while the match is ongoing. Live betting allows you to adjust your bets as you watch the game unfold, making it more interactive and engaging.
2. Streaming Integration
Many online sportsbooks offer streaming services, allowing you to watch eSports matches live while you place your bets. This feature is especially helpful in eSports, where the action happens quickly, and being able to follow the game in real-time can improve your betting decisions.
3. Multiple Betting Markets
eSports betting platforms typically offer a wide variety of markets, from match outcomes to specific in-game events. This diversity allows bettors to find markets that suit their knowledge and preferences.
4. Bonuses and Promotions
Many sportsbooks offer bonuses and promotions specifically for eSports betting. These can include welcome bonuses, free bets, and boosted odds for certain matches or tournaments. Taking advantage of these promotions can give you extra funds to bet with and improve your overall experience.
How to Place an eSports Bet
Betting on eSports is straightforward once you understand the process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to place an eSports bet:
- Choose a Sportsbook: Start by selecting a reputable online sportsbook that offers a variety of eSports betting markets.
- Create an Account: Sign up for an account and complete the registration process. Many sportsbooks offer welcome bonuses for new players.
- Deposit Funds: Make a deposit using your preferred payment method. Most sportsbooks accept credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies.
- Browse eSports Markets: Once your account is funded, navigate to the eSports section of the sportsbook and choose the game or tournament you want to bet on.
- Place Your Bet: Select the type of bet you want to place, such as match winner or total maps over/under, enter the amount you want to wager, and confirm your bet.
- Watch the Match: Many sportsbooks offer live streaming of eSports matches, allowing you to watch the action and follow your bets in real-time.
Top eSports Betting Providers
There are several top-tier sportsbooks that specialize in eSports betting. Here are some of the best platforms to explore:
1. Betway eSports
Betway is a well-known name in the sports betting world and offers a dedicated eSports section. With competitive odds, live streaming, and a wide range of markets, Betway is a top choice for eSports betting.
2. Unibet
Unibet offers a wide selection of eSports markets, covering major tournaments and matches across various games. They also provide live streaming and regular promotions for eSports bettors.
3. GG.BET
GG.BET is an eSports-focused sportsbook that offers a comprehensive selection of betting markets on games like CS, Dota 2, and LoL. They are known for their excellent live betting options and eSports promotions.
4. 888sport
888sport is a global sportsbook that offers extensive coverage of eSports events. Their platform is easy to navigate, and they provide various betting options, including live betting and in-play markets.
eSports Betting Tips
If you’re new to eSports betting or looking to improve your strategies, here are some helpful tips:
- Research the Teams and Players: Knowing the strengths and weaknesses of teams and players can help you make better betting decisions. Follow recent performance trends and head-to-head records.
- Stay Updated on Patches and Updates: eSports games are frequently updated with new patches that can change the gameplay. Keep an eye on how these updates affect team performance and strategy.
- Start Small: If you’re new to eSports betting, start with smaller bets until you become more familiar with the betting markets and the games.
- Watch the Games: Watching eSports matches, whether live or through replays, can give you valuable insight into team strategies and player behavior.
- Take Advantage of Bonuses: Many sportsbooks offer bonuses and promotions for eSports betting. Make sure to take advantage of these to boost your bankroll.
FAQs About eSports Betting
Is eSports betting legal?
Yes, eSports betting is legal in many countries where online sports betting is regulated. Always check the regulations in your region before betting.
What are the most popular eSports to bet on?
League of Legends, Dota 2, and CS
are among the most popular eSports for betting, with large tournaments and active betting markets.
Can I bet on eSports live?
Yes, most online sportsbooks offer live betting on eSports, allowing you to place bets while the match is in progress.
What is the best strategy for eSports betting?
The best strategy is to stay informed about the teams, players, and game updates. Doing thorough research before placing bets can significantly improve your chances.
Conclusion
eSports betting offers a new and exciting way to engage with competitive gaming. Whether you’re a fan of League of Legends, Dota 2, or CS, there are plenty of betting markets to explore and opportunities to win. By staying informed, betting responsibly, and using the tips provided in this guide, you can enjoy the thrill of eSports betting while increasing your chances of success. Check out our recommended sportsbooks and start placing your bets today!