Few industries have grown as fast as eSports. What was once a niche industry filled with dedicated gamers has now transformed into a global sensation. Today, when you hear “eSport,” you think of packed arenas and millions of viewers streaming popular eSports events.
eSports’ popularity created room for betting, as fans could wager on different events. The betting aspect is also on the rise. According to Statista, the market is expected to reach US$2.8bn by the end of 2025, growing also by 5.43% in the next 5 years.
What could be behind this steady growth? Kate Richardson expertly analyzes aspects that have contributed to the overall development. Additionally, you shall see what MightyTips say about these sites in France, learning about bookmakers and eSports wagering roles. eSports in France is growing in popularity, as user penetration in France will be 22.4% in 2025. That said, let’s get into the guide!
What are Esports?
Unlike traditional sports which are held physically, eSports is made of digital participants playing organized video games. An eSports event can be played in person or online and at the professional or amateur level.
The main types of eSports games include;
- League of Legends
- Call of Duty
- Dota 2
- NBA2K
- EA FC
The professionalization of these games has led to organized tournaments, sponsorships, and a dedicated fan base. In short, this industry is now an ecosystem growing each day as eSports players can earn through their gaming skills. The ecosystem’s structure goes thus;
- Players: Compete in eSports teams or individually
- Tournament organizers: Design and produce competitions
- Publishers: Own the licenses to the competitive games
- Sponsors: Brands that invest in esports in exchange for marketing rights
- Media channels: Platforms like Twitch that broadcast esports events
eSports Betting Growth
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams” are the famous words of Eleanor Roosevelt. Truth be told, those benefiting from this growth are the passionate fans who believed in the video gaming industry when no one else did.
That said, let us discuss 4 factors driving the popularity of eSports betting.
The Main Reasons For The Growing Popularity
- Global Accessibility: Technological advancements have made eSports betting more accessible than ever. There are thousands of online betting sites and apps that allow users to wager conveniently using any device from anywhere. Live feeds of eSports tournaments also played a major role. By following games in real time via streaming platforms, bettors can identify the best players or events to bet on. Additionally, there are live betting options on the biggest eSports odds.
- Diverse Betting Opportunities: The diversity of eSports gaming has led to an extensive betting market. There’s a lot to wager on, which can’t be found in the traditional sports market. For example, in first-person shooters (FPS), you could bet on first kills, total maps won, or in-game achievement. This diversity, paired with high-stakes tournaments, attracts a broad audience.
- Demographics and Community Engagement: eSports appeals to younger audiences, as they grew up gaming and are digitally inclined. As of June 2024, Gen Z adults made up 25% of the US social media audience. Knowing this, esports betting sites often integrate social features like chat rooms. This youthful enthusiasm drives a steady influx of participants in the betting ecosystem.
- Rise of Sponsorship and Investment: As eSports gained legitimacy, more sponsors and investors have gotten involved, making it a billion-dollar industry. This hasn’t stopped as sponsorship deals have become a part of the ecosystem, leading to larger prize money and higher competition stakes. This growth enhances the quality of the events, also boosting interest in betting as fans want to wager on high-stakes matches.
How Are Lines Created?
Creating eSports betting lines involves a comprehensive analysis of various factors such as team performance, player statistics, and historical data to establish baselines. Oddsmakers also account for the game’s meta, which shifts rapidly, impacting team strategies and player performance. As a result, the odds are adjusted to reflect the game’s current state.
External factors such as player injuries and roster changes can influence the lines. In a scenario like this, oddsmakers use algorithms and statistical models to predict outcomes. However, they are not fully dependent on these models as they seek expert advice. A blend of data-driven analysis and human insight helps create more accurate lines.
Lastly, betting lines are subject to fluctuations. For instance, a surge in bets on one team may shift the odds to balance the action. This is done to provide a fair betting environment.
Photo: MightyTips
How To Get Started With eSports Betting
eSports betting is an exciting way to engage with competitive gaming. For those interested in wagering on games in the esports betting industry, here is a step-by-step guide that Kate has curated;
- Choose a Reputable Platform: Research and select a licensed eSports betting site. Ensure the sportsbook is secured and offers odds on the top-rated tournaments.
- Create an Account: Reputable sites require personal information during registration. Also, complete verifications to ensure secure transactions and regulations compliance.
- Deposit Funds: Add money to your account to wager. Only use a payment method you are familiar with. Also, read the T&Cs for payments to learn more about transaction fees.
- Research the Odds: Study the games, tournaments, teams, and players. Keep up with trends like team strategies to improve your predictions.
- Place Bet: The final stage involves wagering on events. If you are unsure of research, I advise you to place small bets until you gain confidence.
Responsible eSports Betting
Engaging in eSports betting is fun, but it can turn into a regrettable experience without boundaries, such as responsible gaming. By understanding the risks involved, you take actions such as setting a budget and sticking to it. Also, learn to take breaks. Most importantly, gambling shouldn’t be seen as a get-rich-quick scheme.
Finally, if you ever feel that your betting is problematic, seek support. As Demi Lovato said, “Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of strength.” There are several organizations set out to help, offering resources and assistance. This applies to both eSports and traditional sports betting.
