Recall the days of yore, when the height of eSports was your routine LAN gathering at a buddy’s abode? When admitting your passion for video games earned you a few chuckles? We reminisce those times as well. Fast forward, and behold the transformation. Astonishingly, the eSports industry is set to surge to a value of $1 billion in 2021, with eSports sports betting standing as a pivotal catalyst. The question now is, who’s having the last laugh?
As eSports ascended to global prominence, astute bettors recognized the opportunity to wager on their beloved pastime. At OddsHome, we share that passion for taking punts on CS: GO, LoL, and a myriad of other thrilling games. Essentially, it’s about indulging in your existing passions with the added allure of potentially lucrative rewards.
So, does this prospect captivate your interest? Are you ready to immerse yourself in the captivating realm of eSports sports betting? If your answer is a resounding “yes,” rest assured, we’ve got you covered. From unraveling the intricacies of the most popular games to unveiling the finest platforms and competitions, your journey is about to be enriched with knowledge and excitement.
Understanding eSports
A prevalent misconception regarding eSports sports betting revolves around its distinction from traditional sports. You often hear remarks like, “Well, footballers are physically active, while eSports players merely sit around all day.” However, this perspective couldn’t be further from reality. When we take a step back and assess professional gaming, we uncover that it possesses all the quintessential traits of conventional sports. Still skeptical? Let’s break it down:
- Skill: Success in eSports demands a considerable level of skill. Much like their physical athlete counterparts, eSports players dedicate themselves to daily training and honing their craft. They prioritize physical health and a balanced diet to optimize performance.
- Reward: The top-tier eSports players earn handsome compensation for their prowess, mirroring the financial rewards seen in traditional sports.
- Strategy: eSports competitors strategize, think critically, and surmount challenges within their respective games, akin to the strategic elements found in traditional sports.
- Sponsorship: Renowned brands like Red Bull, Monster Energy, Honda, Coca-Cola, and even the US Air Force are eager to back eSports players and teams, highlighting the industry’s credibility and appeal.
When viewed through this lens, legendary DOTA 2 players such as Dendi and Puppey bear striking similarities to icons like LeBron James or Cristiano Ronaldo. The parallels are undeniable.
What’s even more enticing is that eSports is easily accessible and comprehensible, even for those who’ve never played video games. The terminology used shares common ground with traditional sports, featuring terms like wins, losses, ties, over/under, and more. Thus, delving into eSports and becoming proficient is a straightforward journey. With that in mind, let’s delve into some of the most popular titles in eSports sports betting.
Esports Games and Their Rules
Presently, a vast array of tens of thousands of video games awaits your exploration. Yet, when it comes to delving into the realm of competitive eSports fantasy betting, not all games stand as ideal contenders. This is where our guidance comes into play. We recommend narrowing your focus to these 8 games, renowned for their popularity and accessibility, making them perfect entry points into the world of eSports fantasy betting.
League of Legends
In the realm of LoL, two teams, each comprising five players, engage in fierce battles within an arena-like setting. Here, they have the privilege of selecting one from a roster of 140 unique champions, each equipped with their own set of special abilities and advantages. Certain champions excel against specific adversaries, while others may not. Diverse roles and tactical approaches further enrich the experience.
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS: GO)
A perennial favorite among first-person shooter enthusiasts, CS has stood as a cornerstone of eSports sports betting for years. It pits two teams against each other: one takes on the role of terrorists, while the other forms the counter-terrorist squad. The objective is clear – eliminate all opposing team members or successfully execute the planting/defusal of the bomb, contingent upon your team affiliation.
DOTA 2
Originally born as a mod for Warcraft III, Defense Of the Ancients (DOTA) laid the groundwork for LoL. In DOTA 2, champions, non-playable characters, and special abilities converge to create an extensive tapestry of tactics and pathways to victory. While its predecessor began as a mod, DOTA 2 stands as its own distinct entity, owned by Valve.
Overwatch
Think of Overwatch as a fusion of CS:GO and DOTA. This first-person shooter empowers you to select a hero, each endowed with a unique set of abilities and powers. It combines the thrill of FPS gameplay with a refreshing array of distinct heroes.
StarCraft 2
A sequel to the iconic StarCraft, SC2 remains a highly sought-after title in the world of eSports sports betting, both in the USA and Asia. This strategy game challenges players to construct their bases, amass forces, and vanquish their adversary sharing the map.
Heroes of the Storm
A close relative to DOTA 2 and LoL, HoS also finds its place in the MOBA genre. Here, you choose a hero and engage in team-based combat against opposing factions of five. Distinguishing itself from the others, HoS introduces intriguing side objectives, rendering it a title well worth exploring.
Call of Duty
While CS:GO casts you as a terrorist or counter-terrorist, Call of Duty eSports sports betting immerses you in historical faction-based battles. Depending on the expansion, you may assume the roles of an American, Nazi German, Soviet, or even a modern SWAT team member. It’s another stellar FPS option.
FIFA
Imagine it as simulated football. Available in multiple modes, from 1v1 to 4v4 and beyond, FIFA lets you assemble a team drawn from real-world counterparts, complete with players boasting stats mirroring their on-field performances. If you’re well-versed in football and follow the sport closely, FIFA eSports sports betting offers a seamless entry point.
Where to Find eSports betting Websites?
Get up to:
50 Free Bets
1 for every $1 deposit
1 Free Bet credited for every $1 deposit. Up to 50 Free Bets valued at $0.10 each on Book.
18+. New players only. Welcome Bonus - Place 3 x €/$/£20 or more bets to receive €/$/£50 in free bets. This bonus only applies for deposits of €/$/£40 or higher! All you need to do is just deposit the money in your website.com account and you will receive this bonus instantly!
Bonus: €100
18+. Minimum deposit €/$/£. Only real money wagering with minimum 0.20 odds qualifies for the promotion. Additional T&Cs apply.
18+. New players only. Welcome Bonus - Place €/$/£1 or more bets to receive €/$/£100 in free bets. This bonus only applies for deposits of €/$/£1 or higher! All you need to do is just deposit the money in your 1xBet account and you will receive this bonus instantly!
Bet €5 & Get €45
*18+. Min Deposit: €20. The first deposit matched up to €45. 1 x wagering at odds of 1.75+ to unlock Free Bet. Credit Card, Debit Card & PayPal deposits only. Terms Apply.
18+. New players only. Welcome Bonus - Place 4 x €/$/£10 or more bets to receive €/$/£25 in free bets. This bonus only applies for deposits of €/$/£10 or higher! All you need to do is deposit the money into your N1Bet.com account and you will receive this bonus instantly!
4 x $25 Free Bets
*New customer offer. Place 4 x $10 or more bets to receive $25 in free bets. Repeat up to 4 times to receive maximum $100 bonus.
18+. New players only. Welcome Bonus!
18+. New players only. Welcome Bonus!
Get up to:
100 Free Bets
1 for every $1 deposit
1 Free Bet credited for every $1 deposit. Up to 100 Free Bets valued at $0.20 each on Book.
18+. New players only. Welcome Bonus - Place 4 x €/$/£10 or more bets to receive €/$/£25 in free bets. This bonus only applies for deposits of €/$/£10 or higher! All you need to do is just deposit the money in your website.com account and you will receive this bonus instantly!
Get up to:
50 Free Bets
1 for every $1 deposit
1 Free Bet credited for every $1 deposit. Up to 50 Free Bets valued at $0.10 each on Book.
18+. New players only. Welcome Bonus - Place 3 x €/$/£30 or more bets to receive €/$/£35 in free bets. This bonus only applies for deposits of €/$/£30 or higher!
18+. New players only.
If you’re eager to dive into the world of eSports online betting, look no further than our meticulously curated list of the finest bookmakers for eSports wagering. We’ve spared no effort in conducting comprehensive research and rigorous testing, ensuring you won’t have to invest countless hours of your precious time. Every bookmaker featured on our list boasts top-tier eSports betting odds. What’s more, some offer valuable insights, statistics, and other helpful resources. Take a moment to peruse the list and make your selection with confidence!
Which Are the Most Popular Tournaments?
While each of the games we mentioned hosts numerous small, regional tournaments, the true gems lie in the grand competitions. After an internal debate within our team, we’ve unequivocally selected the following as the cream of the eSports crop:
LoL World Championship
In 2018, this competition captivated an audience of 100 million, solidifying its status as the pinnacle of eSports. Here, the globe’s finest players vie for the illustrious Summoner’s Cup, weighing in at a hefty 32 kilograms, and the promise of eternal gaming glory.
The International
A yearly spectacle held in August, The International reigns supreme in the realm of DOTA 2. Its most recent prize pool soared to a staggering $34 million, with expectations of even loftier heights in the future.
Dreamhack
Often referred to as the eSports Olympics, Dreamhack showcases over 10 gaming tournaments, featuring the world’s premier players and teams. It’s essentially a holiday for eSports sports betting enthusiasts, where thrilling action knows no bounds.
Battle.net World Championship
Organized by Blizzard, this championship spotlights competitive gameplay in World of Warcraft (both classic and retail) and Starcraft II. Over the years, it has evolved in form and substance, offering a dynamic eSports experience.
Electronic Sports World Cup
Established in 2003 in France, the Electronic Sports World Cup stands as one of the venerable institutions in eSports. It adapts to the ever-shifting gaming landscape by featuring games in tune with contemporary trends, including recent additions like Fortnite.
Overwatch League
Distinguishing itself from other tournaments, the Overwatch League operates with the structure of a full-fledged league, mirroring formats seen in established sports like the NBA and NFL. Comprising 20 teams, each representing a city, this league boasts both a regular season and playoffs.
Call of Duty League
The Call of Duty League, much like the OWL, embraces a city-based team model and incorporates playoffs following the regular season. Remarkably, it introduces elements such as minimum player salaries, benefits, and revenue sharing—unprecedented developments in the realm of eSports.
FIFA Interactive World Cup
The FIFA Interactive World Cup stands out for its open qualification system. If you’re skilled at the latest iteration of FIFA, your path to the grand stage becomes a tangible reality.
Short History and Facts
The inception of eSports dates back to 1972 when Stanford students engaged in a pioneering tournament centered around the then-popular game Spacewar. The journey started modestly, but by the 1980s, television shows emerged featuring players in front of live cameras, competing in 8-bit games to claim the highest score.
While these early contests involved separate computers or devices rather than true multiplayer gaming, the landscape shifted in 1991 with the advent of Street Fighter II. This game is widely recognized as the pioneer of competitive, player-versus-player tournament play, setting the stage for the relentless growth of eSports.
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, eSports federations took shape, facilitating cultural exchange and promoting the burgeoning industry. As the internet and computers became ubiquitous, eSports solidified their position as a prominent fixture in both individual lives and popular culture.
Final Thoughts
eSports sports betting represents a truly distinctive intersection of virtual environments and real-life skills, transcending geographical constraints. All you need is a computer and an internet connection to partake in this evolving phenomenon. As we venture further into the 2020s, the industry’s growth shows no signs of slowing down. It’s evident that you’ve chosen an opportune moment to dive into this exciting realm. Best of luck, and remember to bet wisely!
FAQ
How to excel at eSports betting?
While there’s no one-size-fits-all strategy for guaranteed success, treat it like any other sport. Mitigate risks, manage your budget, and make informed decisions.
What’s the key to winning eSports bets?
Prioritize research, compare odds from different bookies, and seek the most favorable risk-to-reward ratios.
Should I play games before diving into eSports betting?
Absolutely! Many popular games are either free or affordable. Familiarity with the games enhances your understanding of betting markets.
Is wagering on eSports futures advisable?
It varies by the tournament. Futures carry inherent risks, so exercise moderation and realistic expectations.
Can I prepare for major competitions by watching gameplay?
Certainly. Follow players on platforms like Twitch, Mixer, and YouTube to observe real-time gameplay and engage with the community.
Which eSports game is the easiest for beginners?
Counter-Strike is a great starting point. Its simplicity, with fewer spells and strategies, makes it beginner-friendly.
Where can I discover competitive Counter-Strike odds?
Explore bookmakers endorsed by OddsHome for consistently competitive CS: GO odds. Compare them to uncover the most favorable offers.
