Esports isn’t just a niche hobby. It’s a booming industry that’s taking over screens around the world. What started as small gatherings of enthusiasts battling it out over early console games has exploded into massive competitions watched by millions. It is a sector that’s even making waves in the gambling world.

Betting markets have started to take esports seriously. Sportsbooks are opening their doors to games like League of Legends and Counter-Strike. Fans aren’t just tuning in for entertainment anymore – they’re placing bets and following teams as closely as football or basketball fans do. The rise of esports betting feels inevitable, especially as tournaments keep getting bigger and prize pools grow fatter.

The Heavy Hitters: Top Esports Tournaments

Some people are surprised by the huge growth in tournaments, and the biggest names are drawing crowds that rival traditional sporting events.

For bookmakers and sportsbook operators, there is a big focus on eSports markets and each of the games has its own markets and varieties. People may want to bet on the teams, such as which team is going to win a matchup or even a tournament. There may also be individual markets on the players or things like the first killshot. 

eSports all have their own quirks and varieties, which means that there are a variety of different markets for each game. Some people choose to bet on these while they watch, and it can help bring more revenue to the industry. 

The International (Dota 2)

Often considered the pinnacle of esports tournaments, The International boasts eye-watering prize pools that can go into the millions of dollars. The game’s complex and strategic gameplay has built a fiercely dedicated fanbase. Millions tune in to watch the best players from around the globe.

League of Legends World Championship

Riot Games knows how to put on a show. The LoL Worlds event pulls in viewers by the millions, with grand finals that feel more like Super Bowl productions. With impressive stage setups and intense competition, it’s a prime example of how far esports has come. The 2025 Worlds will take place in China.

CS2/CS: GO Majors

Counter-Strike remains one of the most popular esports titles out there. The Majors are sponsored by Valve and can attract top-tier talent and offer prize pools in the millions. The game’s simple yet engaging gameplay makes it accessible to casual viewers while providing enough depth to keep hardcore fans hooked.

Fortnite World Cup

Although it’s had a bumpy run since its launch, the Fortnite World Cup remains a spectacle. Fortnite made such a massive impact. Epic Games is a huge brand with a lot of different plans to enhance and grow in the future. The billions that Fortnite has generated mean that there are some huge tournaments.

Overwatch League (OWL)

Blizzard’s hero shooter made waves with its structured league format, complete with city-based teams. It’s a model borrowed from traditional sports, and while it’s had ups and downs, OWL remains a significant part of the esports landscape.

Is the Industry Growing?

The short answer: Absolutely. The longer answer involves breaking down exactly how esports has managed to keep its momentum.

Revenue keeps climbing. In 2024, the global market was estimated to be worth over $1.5 billion, with projections suggesting continued growth. That’s down to a mix of sponsorship deals and other income streams.

The gambling industry is now embracing eSports with open arms. Betting platforms are offering odds on everything from individual matches to entire tournaments. And it’s not just small-time operators getting involved.

Audiences are growing, too. Millions of viewers tune in for big events. And with platforms like Twitch and YouTube, fans can watch their favourite teams and players anytime they like. Streaming has made esports accessible in a way that traditional sports may not be.

What’s Next for Esports?

It’s clear that esports isn’t a passing trend. It’s a rapidly maturing industry that’s finding new ways to grow. Game developers are designing titles with esports in mind. Organisations are investing heavily in training and infrastructure in the way that we have seen in traditional sports. And fans are proving that they’re more than willing to spend money to support their favourite teams and players.

The rise of eSports betting is just another sign of how mainstream the industry is becoming. Top tournaments are now being broadcast on major networks and betting platforms – this treats them like traditional sports.

Whether it’s watching a tense Dota 2 final or betting on a CS2 major, there’s no denying the pull of competitive gaming. It’s likely that esports will only become more prominent in both the entertainment and gambling worlds.