What Is Esports? A Beginner’s Guide to Competitive Gaming

What is esports? It’s not just a buzzword; it’s a booming global sensation that has transformed the way we sense gaming.

For beginners, understanding esports can seem daunting, but this guide is here to break it down into bite-sized pieces.

Whether you’re a gamer looking to level up your skills or a spectator enthusiastic to dive into the competitive scene, this article will equip you with the knowledge you need to navigate the world of esports.

Think about tuning into a live tournament, where teams battle it for recognition and significant prize pools.

The excitement is noticeable, and the community is passionate. Esports offers an array of genres – from MOBAs like League of Legends to FPS games like Valorant. With millions of fans and players worldwide, it’s a space where passion meets competition.

In this guide, we’ll explore:

• What does esports mean and what’s important in today’s gaming culture?
• The history of esports, tracing its evolution from humble beginnings to major tournaments.
• An overview of popular esports games that are shaping the competitive landscape.
• Insights on how to get involved in esports, whether as a player or a fan.

Ready to jump into the action? Let’s unravel the world of esports together!

What Is Esports?

Esports, or competitive gaming, is defined as organized video game competitions where players or teams face off against each other in various titles.

But what does that mean? Let’s break it down.

The Competitive Edge

At its core, esports is about competition. It’s not just about playing video games for fun; it’s about mastering skills, strategies, and teamwork to outsmart opponents.

Professional esports players dedicate countless hours to practice, often resembling the training regimens of traditional athletes.

They compete in organized tournaments that can feature massive prize pools, sometimes reaching millions of dollars.

The Rise of Esports

The rise of esports has been meteoric, largely due to the advent of online streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube.

These platforms allow fans to watch live matches and engage with their favorite players in real-time.

This accessibility has turned esports into a mainstream entertainment option, attracting millions of viewers and creating a dedicated fan base.

Genres of Esports Games

Esports encompasses a variety of game genres, each offering unique gameplay experiences:

Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas (MOBAs):

• Games like League of Legends and Dota 2 are at the forefront of this genre.
• Teams work together to destroy the enemy base while managing resources and strategy.

First-Person Shooters (FPS):

• Titles such as Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and Valorant highlight precision shooting and teamwork.
• These games often feature fast-paced action and require quick reflexes.

Real-Time Strategy (RTS):

• In games like StarCraft II, players must manage resources and units in real time to outmaneuver their opponents.

The Community Aspect

One of the most appealing aspects of esports is its community. Players and fans connect through forums, social media, and local events, fostering a sense of belonging.

Whether you’re looking to join a team or simply spectate, there’s a place for everyone in the esports ecosystem.

But esports is not just about playing video games; it’s a complex world filled with competition, community, and excitement.

History of Esports

The history of esports is a fascinating journey that traces its roots from simple arcade competitions to the massive global tournaments we see today.

Understanding this evolution can provide valuable context for the current state of competitive gaming.

Early Beginnings

Esports started in the 1970s and 1980s, with early competitions held in arcades.

One of the first notable events was the 1972 Space Invaders Championship, which attracted thousands of participants and set the stage for future tournaments.

These early competitions were informal, but they sparked interest in competitive gaming.

The 1990s: A New Era

The 1990s marked a significant turning point for esports. With the rise of personal computers and internet connectivity, players could compete against each other online.

Games like Doom and Quake became popular in competitive circles, leading to organized tournaments such as the Cyberathlete Professional League (CPL), founded in 1997.

This era saw the establishment of dedicated gaming communities and the first wave of professional players.

Major Milestones

As we moved into the 2000s, esports began to gain mainstream recognition. Key milestones include:

• 2003: The launch of the World Cyber Games (WCG), often referred to as the “Olympics of Gaming.” This international tournament brought together players from around the world, showcasing diverse games and cultures.
• 2004: The FIFA Interactive World Cup (FIWC) was established, marking an important step for sports simulation games in esports.
• 2006: The Evolution Championship Series (EVO) became a prominent platform for fighting games, solidifying its status as a key event in competitive gaming.
• 2011: The inaugural The International, a Dota 2 tournament that offered a prize pool exceeding $1 million, showcased the financial potential of esports and attracted global attention.
• 2013: The formation of major leagues like the League of Legends Championship Series (LCS) further solidified esports as a professional career path. This league introduced structured play and regular seasons for teams.
• 2016: The League of Legends World Championship sold out the 15,000-seat Staples Center in Los Angeles within an hour and later filled the 40,000-seat World Cup Stadium in Seoul, drawing an online audience of over 27 million viewers.
• 2018: The International 2018 broke records with a prize pool exceeding $25 million, highlighting the increasing financial stakes in esports.

Infrastructure Development

With these milestones came significant developments in esports infrastructure. Organizations like ESL (Electronic Sports League) and DreamHack started hosting large-scale tournaments, providing platforms for players to showcase their skills.

Sponsorships from major brands also started to flow into the industry, promoting esports to new heights.

Current Landscape

Today, esports is a multi-billion dollar industry featuring diverse games and genres.

Major tournaments fill arenas with thousands of fans, while millions more watch online.

The community continues to grow, with dedicated platforms for streaming and discussion.

Popular Esports Games

As we dive into the world of esports and competitive gaming, one of the most exciting aspects is the variety of games that dominate the competitive scene.

Each genre offers unique gameplay mechanics and attracts different types of players and fans.

Let’s explore some of the most popular esports games today.

Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas (MOBAs)

MOBAs have become a cornerstone of esports, with titles like League of Legends and Dota 2 leading the charge:

League of Legends:

• Released in 2009, this game has grown into one of the most popular esports titles globally.
• Players form teams of five and compete to destroy the enemy’s Nexus while defending their own.
• The strategic depth, character diversity, and team dynamics make it a favorite among both players and viewers.
• Major tournaments like the League of Legends World Championship attract millions of viewers and offer multi-million dollar prize pools.

Dota 2:

• Known for its complex gameplay and high-skill top, Dota 2 is another titan in the esports arena.
• Launched in 2013, it features a similar team-based structure but introduces unique mechanics that require deep strategic planning.
• The annual International tournament is famous for its record-breaking prize pools, funded largely through community contributions.

First-Person Shooters (FPS)

FPS games have carved out a significant niche in esports, with titles like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CSGO) and Valorant leading the way:

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CSGO):

• Released in 2012, CSGO has been a staple in competitive gaming for over a decade.
• Teams compete in various game modes, primarily focusing on bomb defusing or hostage rescue scenarios.
• The game’s tactical gameplay and focus on teamwork have made it a favorite for both players and spectators.
• Major tournaments like ESL One and Blast Premier draw large audiences and feature substantial prize pools.

Valorant

• Launched in 2020 by Riot Games, Valorant quickly gained traction in the esports community.
• Combining elements from traditional FPS games with unique character abilities, it offers a fresh take on competitive shooting.
• The game’s tactical nature and focus on strategy have led to a rapidly growing competitive scene, with tournaments like VCT (Valorant Champions Tour) gaining popularity.

Fighting Games

Fighting games have seen a resurgence in recent years, with titles like Street Fighter 6 and Tekken 8 becoming increasingly popular:

Street Fighter 6:

• The latest installment in the iconic series continues to draw competitive players from around the globe.
• Known for its deep mechanics and character diversity, it has a rich history in esports dating back to the early 1990s.
• Tournaments like EVO showcase top talent and bring together fans from all walks of life.

Tekken 8:

• This beloved franchise has maintained a loyal fan base over the years.
• With its intricate combat system and character customization options, Tekken 8 is poised to make waves in the competitive scene as it gains traction among players.

Battle Royale Games

The battle royale genre has exploded in popularity over recent years, with games like Fortnite and PUBG leading the charge:

Fortnite:

• Known for its colorful graphics and building mechanics, Fortnite has become a cultural wonder since its release in 2017.
• Its unique blend of shooting and construction elements has attracted millions of players worldwide.
• Epic Games hosts major tournaments with impressive prize pools, making it a staple in competitive gaming.

PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG):

• As one of the pioneers of the battle royale genre, PUBG offers a more realistic take on survival gameplay.
• Teams compete to be the last ones standing on an ever-shrinking map.
• Its competitive scene includes numerous tournaments that showcase top-tier talent.

Popular esports games span various genres, each offering unique experiences for players and fans alike. 

Esports Tournaments

Esports tournaments are the heart of competitive gaming, bringing together top players and teams from around the world to compete for glory and considerable prize pools.

Understanding how these tournaments work can improve your appreciation for the esports scene.

Overview of Major Tournaments

Esports tournaments vary in size and format, but they all share a common goal: to crown the best players or teams in a particular game.

Here are some of the most famous tournaments that have shaped the esports landscape:

1. The International (Dota 2):
   • This annual tournament is renowned for its massive prize pool, often exceeding $30 million.
   • The International attracts the best Dota 2 teams worldwide and is held in a different city each year, creating a global spectacle.
2. League of Legends World Championship:
   • Often referred to as “Worlds,” this tournament showcases the top teams from various regions.
   • The event culminates in a grand final that draws millions of viewers, making it one of the most-watched esports events globally.
3. CSGO Major Championships:
   • These tournaments are held multiple times a year and feature the best CSGO teams competing for significant prize money.
   • The Major Championships are known for their intense matches and high stakes, attracting large audiences both online and in person.
4. EVO (Evolution Championship Series):
   • This is the exclusive fighting game tournament, featuring popular titles like Street Fighter and Tekken.
   • EVO has been instrumental in promoting fighting games as a serious competitive sport and attracts players from around the globe.

Tournament Formats

Esports tournaments can follow various formats, including:

1. Single Elimination:
   • In this format, teams are eliminated after losing a match.
   • It’s straightforward but can lead to unexpected outcomes since one loss means elimination.
2. Double Elimination:
   • This format allows teams to have a second chance after losing their first match.
   • Teams must lose twice to be eliminated, making it more forgiving than single elimination.
3. Round Robin:
   • In this format, each team plays against every other team.
   • The team with the best overall record at the end of all matches is declared the winner.
   • This format is often used in league play.

Role of Tournament Organizers

Tournament organizers play a crucial role in the esports ecosystem. Organizations like ESL (Electronic Sports League) and DreamHack are known for hosting large-scale events that bring together players and fans alike.

They handle everything from logistics to broadcasting, ensuring that tournaments run smoothly and reach a wide audience.

Emerging Trends in Tournaments

As esports continues to evolve, so do tournament formats and structures:

• Esports World Cup: This concept aims to bring together national teams from various countries to compete on an international stage, similar to traditional sports World Cups. It’s an exciting development that could further globalize esports.
• Online Tournaments: The rise of online gaming has led to an increase in virtual tournaments, allowing players from different regions to compete without traveling. This trend has made esports more accessible than ever.

These esports tournaments are vital to the competitive gaming landscape, offering thrilling experiences for players and fans alike.

Understanding how these tournaments operate can deepen your appreciation for the skill and dedication required to succeed in esports.

How to Get Into Esports

If you’re excited about the world of esports and want to get involved, whether as a player or a fan, there are several pathways you can take.

We will through the steps to dive into the competitive gaming scene.

1. Choosing the Right Game

The first step in getting into esports is selecting a game that suits your skills and interests. Here are some tips for making your choice:

• Assess Your Interests:
  • Consider what genres you enjoy most.
  • Are you drawn to strategy games like Dota 2 and League of Legends, or do you prefer fast-paced shooters like CSGO and Valorant?
  • Your passion for a game will drive your motivation to improve.
• Skill Level:
  • Different games have varying skill ceilings.
  • Some titles, like MOBAs, require deep strategic thinking and teamwork, while others, like FPS games, focus on quick reflexes and precision.
  • Choose a game that aligns with your current skill level but also challenges you to grow.

2. Skill Development

Once you’ve chosen a game, it’s time to hone your skills. Here are some resources to help you improve:

• Online Tutorials:
  • Platforms like YouTube offer countless tutorials and guides from experienced players.
  • Watching these can provide valuable insights into gameplay mechanics and strategies.
• Coaching Services:
  • Consider hiring a coach or joining a coaching platform where experienced players can provide personalized feedback and training.
  • This can accelerate your learning process significantly.
• Practice Regularly:
  • The key to improvement is consistent practice. Set aside dedicated time each week to play and focus on specific skills or strategies you want to develop.

3. Engaging with the Community

Esports is as much about community as it is about competition. Here’s how to connect with fellow gamers:

• Join Online Forums:
  • Websites like Reddit and Discord have communities dedicated to various esports titles.
  • Engage in discussions, ask questions, and share experiences with other players.
• Attend Local Events:
  • Look for local tournaments or gaming events in your area.
  • Attending these can help you meet other gamers and potentially form teams for future competitions.
• Follow Esports News:
  • Stay updated on the latest news in the esports world by following reputable websites and social media accounts dedicated to competitive gaming.
  • This will keep you informed about upcoming tournaments, player transfers, and game updates.

4. Competing in Tournaments

Once you feel confident in your skills, consider participating in tournaments:

• Start Small:
  • Look for local or online tournaments that cater to beginners.
  • These events often have less pressure than larger competitions and can provide valuable experience.
• Form a Team:
  • If you’re interested in team-based games, consider forming a team with friends or fellow players from online communities.
  • Teamwork is crucial in many esports titles, so practicing together can enhance your performance.
• Learn from Experience:
  • Regardless of the outcome, every tournament is an opportunity to learn.
  • Analyze your performance, identify areas for improvement, and apply those lessons in future competitions.

Overall getting into esports involves choosing the right game, developing your skills, engaging with the community, and participating in tournaments.

With dedication and passion, you can carve out your place in this exciting world of competitive gaming. 

Esports Careers

As the esports industry continues to grow, so do the career opportunities within it.

Whether you’re a player, coach, analyst, or content creator, there are various paths you can take to become part of this exciting field.

Let’s explore some of the most popular career options in esports.

Player

Becoming a professional esports player is a dream for many gamers. Here are some key points to consider:

• Skill Development:
  • To succeed as a player, you must dedicate significant time to practice and improve your skills in your chosen game.
  • This often includes studying strategies, analyzing gameplay, and participating in tournaments.
• Team Dynamics:
  • Most professional players are part of a team.
  • Understanding teamwork and communication is crucial for success in team-based games.
• Sponsorships and Contracts:
  • Successful players often secure sponsorships or contracts with esports organizations.
  • This can provide financial support and resources to help you compete at a higher level.

Coach

Coaching plays an essential role in esports, helping players improve their skills and strategies:

• Responsibilities:
  • Coaches analyze gameplay, provide feedback, and develop training regimens for their teams.
  • They also play a vital role in strategizing for upcoming matches.
• Skill Set:
  • A good coach should have a deep understanding of the game and strong leadership skills.
  • Experience as a player can be beneficial but is not always necessary.
• Career Path:
  • Many coaches start as players or analysts before transitioning into coaching roles.
  • Networking within the esports community can help you find opportunities.

Analyst

Analysts focus on studying gameplay and providing insights to teams:

• Data Analysis:
  • Analysts often use statistics and data to evaluate player performance and team strategies.
  • This information can be crucial for making informed decisions during tournaments.
• Communication Skills:
  • Analysts must effectively communicate their findings to players and coaches, helping them understand areas for improvement.
• Career Opportunities:
  • Analysts can work for esports organizations, tournament organizers, or as independent consultants.

Content Creator

With the rise of streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube, content creation has become a viable career path in esports:

• Types of Content:
  • Content creators produce various types of content, including gameplay streams, tutorials, commentary, and vlogs.
  • Engaging with your audience is key to building a following.
• Monetization:
  • Successful content creators can earn money through subscriptions, donations, sponsorships, and ad revenue.
  • Building a personal brand is essential for attracting viewers and sponsors.
• Networking:
  • Collaborating with other content creators can help expand your reach and grow your audience.

Event Organizer

Event organizers play a crucial role in the esports ecosystem by planning and executing tournaments:

• Responsibilities:
  • Organizers handle logistics such as venue selection, scheduling matches, securing sponsorships, and promoting events.
• Skills Required:
  • Strong organizational skills, marketing knowledge, and an understanding of the gaming community are essential for success in this role.
• Career Path:
  • Many event organizers start by volunteering at local tournaments or working with established organizations to gain experience.

The world of esports offers diverse career opportunities beyond just playing.

Whether you aspire to be a player, coach, analyst, content creator, or event organizer, there’s a path for you in this dynamic industry.

Now we look at some most successful e-sports teams to find your inspiration to become a gamer.

Best Esports Teams

In the competitive world of esports, certain teams have risen to prominence, showcasing exceptional skill, strategy, and teamwork.

Understanding what makes these teams successful can provide valuable insights for aspiring players and fans alike.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the best esports teams in the industry today.

Team Liquid

Founded in 2000, Team Liquid is one of the most recognized names in esports. Here’s what sets them apart:

• Diverse Roster: Team Liquid fields teams in various games, including Dota 2, League of Legends, CSGO, and more. This diversity allows them to tap into multiple competitive scenes and attract a broad fan base.
• Achievements: Team Liquid has a storied history of success, including winning The International 2017 in Dota 2 and consistently placing highly in major tournaments across different titles.
• Branding and Community Engagement: Team Liquid has built a strong brand presence and engages actively with its community through social media, merchandise, and fan events.

Fnatic

Fnatic is another powerhouse in the esports world, known for its competitive edge and innovative approach:

• History: Established in 2004, Fnatic has a rich history in competitive gaming. They were one of the first organizations to embrace esports as a professional career path.
• Success Across Titles: Fnatic has achieved significant success in games like League of Legends, CSGO, and Dota 2. Their League of Legends team has won multiple European championships and consistently performs well on the international stage.
• Strong Fanbase: Fnatic boasts a loyal fan base, thanks to its commitment to excellence and engaging content that resonates with its audience.

TSM (Team SoloMid)

TSM is a North American organization that has made a significant impact on the competitive gaming world:

• Founding and Growth: Founded in 2009, TSM quickly rose to prominence with its League of Legends team. They have since expanded into other games like Valorant and Apex Legends.
• Achievements: TSM’s League of Legends team has won multiple North American championships and consistently qualifies for international tournaments. Their strategic gameplay and strong team synergy are key factors behind their success.
• Innovative Branding: TSM is known for its innovative branding strategies, including collaborations with popular streamers and content creators to expand their reach.

G2 Esports

G2 Esports is recognized for its flashy playstyle and charismatic players:

• Dynamic Roster: Founded in 2013, G2 has quickly established itself as a leading organization with teams in games like League of Legends, CSGO, and Valorant.
• Achievements: G2’s League of Legends team reached the finals of the 2019 World Championship, showcasing their ability to compete at the highest level. Their CSGO team has also secured multiple tournament victories.
• Engagement with Fans: G2 excels at engaging with its fanbase through entertaining content, social media interactions, and community events.

Evil Geniuses

Evil Geniuses (EG) is one of the oldest esports organizations, founded in 1999:

• Legacy: EG has a rich history in competitive gaming, particularly known for its success in Dota 2. They were one of the first organizations to invest heavily in player development and training.
• Achievements: The team won The International 2015, marking one of the most significant victories in esports history. They continue to be competitive across various titles, including CSGO and Valorant.
• Focus on Player Welfare: EG emphasizes player development and mental health, setting a standard for how organizations can support their athletes both on and off the field.

The best esports teams have established themselves through skillful play, strategic branding, and strong community engagement.

By studying these successful organizations, aspiring players can gain valuable insights into what it takes to thrive in the competitive gaming landscape.

Future of Esports

The future of esports is bright and full of potential. As the industry continues to evolve, several trends and developments are shaping its revolution.

Understanding these changes can help players, fans, and aspiring professionals navigate the exciting landscape ahead.

Increased Investment

One of the most significant trends in esports is the influx of investment from traditional sports entities and major brands:

• Sponsorships:
  • Companies are increasingly recognizing the value of reaching younger audiences through esports.
  • Sponsorship deals with teams, tournaments, and streaming platforms are on the rise, leading to larger prize pools and better resources for players.
• Traditional Sports Integration:
  • Many traditional sports organizations are investing in esports teams or creating their competitive gaming leagues.
  • This crossover is helping to legitimize esports and attract new fans who may not have previously engaged with gaming.

Technological Advancements

Technology plays a crucial role in shaping the future of esports:

• AI Integration:
  • Artificial intelligence is being used to analyze gameplay and provide insights for players and coaches.
  • AI-driven analytics can help teams identify strengths and weaknesses, leading to improved performance.
• Cloud Gaming:
  • The rise of cloud gaming services is making esports more accessible.
  • Players can compete without needing high-end hardware, allowing a broader audience to participate in competitive gaming.

Growth of Mobile Esports

Mobile gaming is rapidly gaining popularity, leading to the rise of mobile esports:

• Emerging Titles:
  • Games like PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty: Mobile have established competitive scenes that attract millions of players and viewers.
  • These games offer a unique experience tailored for mobile devices while maintaining competitive integrity.
• Global Reach:
  • Mobile esports are particularly popular in regions with high mobile usage, such as Southeast Asia and India.
  • This growth opens up new markets for tournaments and sponsorships.

Regional Markets

As esports expands globally, certain regions are emerging as hotspots for competitive gaming:

India:

• With a rapidly growing gaming community, India is becoming a significant player in the esports scene.
• Increased internet access and mobile gaming popularity are driving this growth, leading to more local tournaments and international interest.

Latin America:

• Countries in Latin America are also seeing a surge in esports participation.
• Local leagues and tournaments are gaining traction, creating opportunities for players to showcase their talents on a larger stage.

Evolving Viewer Experience

The way fans engage with esports is changing:

Interactive Streaming: Platforms like Twitch are introducing features that allow viewers to interact with streamers and influence gameplay. This level of engagement enhances the viewing experience and fosters community involvement.

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): As VR and AR technologies advance, they may transform how fans experience live events. Imagine attending an esports tournament in a virtual arena or using AR to enhance your viewing experience at home.

As these trends unfold, they will shape the competitive gaming landscape for years to come.

Conclusion

As we wrap up this beginner’s guide to esports, it’s clear that this vibrant and dynamic world offers something for everyone – whether you’re a gamer, a fan, or someone looking to explore career opportunities. Here’s a quick recap of what we’ve covered:

Key Insights of this guide

1. Understanding Esports:
   • We defined esports as organized competitive gaming, showcasing its rise through online platforms and sponsorships.
   • The community surrounding esports is vast and welcoming, making it easier than ever to get involved.
2. History of Esports:
   • From its humble beginnings in arcade competitions to the global phenomenon it is today, esports has undergone significant evolution.
   • Major milestones have shaped its growth, paving the way for the exciting tournaments we see now.
3. Popular Games:
   • We explored various genres within esports, including MOBAs, FPS games, fighting games, and battle royale titles.
   • Each genre offers unique gameplay experiences and attracts different types of players and fans.
4. Tournaments:
   • Esports tournaments are the heart of competitive gaming, featuring various formats and organized by dedicated tournament organizers.
   • These events showcase the best talent in the industry and provide thrilling experiences for spectators.
5. Getting Involved:
   • Whether you want to play competitively or engage as a fan, we discussed practical steps to help you get started in esports.
   • From choosing the right game to participating in tournaments, there’s a pathway for everyone.
6. Career Opportunities:
   • The esports industry offers diverse career paths beyond just playing, including roles as coaches, analysts, content creators, and event organizers.
   • With dedication and passion, you can carve out your niche in this exciting field.
7. Future Trends:
   • The future of esports looks promising with increased investment, technological advancements, growth in mobile gaming, emerging regional markets, and evolving viewer experiences shaping the landscape ahead.

Esports is more than just a trend; it’s a cultural movement that continues to grow and evolve.

Whether you’re looking to compete at the highest level or simply enjoy watching your favorite teams battle it out, there’s never been a better time to dive into the world of competitive gaming.

So why wait? Explore your interests in esports today—join a community, start practicing your skills, or simply tune into a live tournament and experience the excitement for yourself!

FAQ: Common Questions From Beginner Esports Players