ESports – short for “electronic sports”, is a modern day sport played using video games. Generally, it involves two or more players being arranged into teams competing against each other in a multiplayer video game.
A career in esports is currently one of the most sought-after jobs with the youth in India and while the industry is relatively new, the potential it presents in terms of popularity, reach and earning potential cannot be denied. A report by FICCI-EY revealed that the number of online gamers in India touched 65 million in 2019 that is expected to reach 440 million by 2022. This relatively new tide towards esports as a hobby and a career option was not a coincidence; it has happened due to the culmination of various factors such as increased access to affordable internet, the introduction of 5G, and the heavy investments pouring into the sector. These factors, combined with an increasingly modern and connected millennial and Gen-Z audience has catapulted the gaming industry to new heights in the past few years. As the interest evolves from pursuing it as a hobby or a therapeutic activity as some might say, to as a professional career, the opportunities it presents to Indian youth are vast.
History of eSports:
:- Early Beginnings (1970s-1990s): eSports traces its roots to video game competitions in the late 1970s and 1980s, often held in arcades. Games like “Space Invaders” and “Pac-Man” were among the first to see competitive play.
:- Golden Era (1990s-2000s): The 1990s witnessed the rise of competitive gaming with titles like “Street Fighter II” and “Quake.” LAN parties and early tournaments laid the foundation for eSports.
:- Professionalization (2000s-2010s): The 2000s saw the formation of professional eSports organizations and the advent of major tournaments like the World Cyber Games and the Electronic Sports World Cup. Games like “StarCraft,” “Counter-Strike,” and “Warcraft III” gained prominence.
:- Streaming and Online Platforms: The rise of platforms like Twitch and YouTube enabled gamers to livestream their gameplay, attracting large audiences and turning professional gamers into celebrities.
:- Mainstream Recognition (2010s): eSports gained mainstream recognition with increasing prize pools, sponsorships, and involvement from traditional sports teams and organizations.
Future of eSports:
:- Growth: The eSports industry is expected to continue growing, both in terms of viewership and revenue. More mainstream media coverage and corporate sponsorships are likely.
:-Diversification: New games and genres will emerge in eSports, appealing to a broader audience. Mobile eSports is on the rise, with games like “Free Fire” and “PUBG Mobile.”
:- Olympic Consideration: There is ongoing debate about whether eSports should be included in the Olympic Games, which could further legitimize it as a sport.
:- Infrastructure and Investment: Continued investment in eSports infrastructure, including arenas and training facilities, will enhance the professionalization of the industry.
:- Regional Growth: eSports will continue to grow globally, with regions like Asia, North America, and Europe leading the way. Emerging markets, including India and South America, will play a more significant role.
:- Technological Advancements: Advancements in technology, such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), could revolutionize how eSports are experienced and played.
:-Inclusion and Diversity: The industry is making strides in becoming more inclusive and diverse, with more opportunities for female and underrepresented gamers and professionals.
eSports Scope
The scope of eSports in India and around the world has been growing rapidly in recent years:
India:
In India, eSports has gained popularity, with a growing number of tournaments, teams, and players.
:- The government and private organizations are investing in eSports infrastructure.
:- Streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube have contributed to the visibility of Indian gamers.
:- Indian eSports revenue is expected to increase significantly.
Worldwide:
:- eSports has become a global phenomenon with massive audiences.
:- Top-tier tournaments like The International (Dota 2) and League of Legends World Championship offer multi-million-dollar prize pools.
:- eSports has attracted mainstream attention, with traditional sports teams, celebrities, and brands getting involved.
:- eSports viewership surpasses many traditional sports, making it an attractive market for advertisers.
Best game to choose
Choosing the best game in eSports depends on various factors, including personal preference, skill, and the current eSports landscape. Some popular eSports titles are
1. League of Legends: A highly competitive team-based MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) game with a massive global player base and professional scene.
2. Dota 2: Another prominent MOBA with a significant eSports presence, known for its lucrative tournaments like The International.
3. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO): A tactical first-person shooter with a strong competitive scene and numerous tournaments.
4. Overwatch: A team-based first-person shooter with a focus on hero abilities and coordination.
5. Rainbow Six Siege: A tactical shooter with a growing eSports scene, emphasizing strategy and teamwork.
6. Fortnite: Known for its battle royale mode, it gained immense popularity in eSports with large prize pools.
7. Valorant: A tactical first-person shooter from the makers of League of Legends, quickly gaining ground in the eSports world.
8. Rocket League: A unique blend of soccer and rocket-powered cars, with a dedicated eSports community.
9. Super Smash Bros. Melee: A popular choice for competitive console gaming, especially in the Super Smash Bros. community.
10. StarCraft II: A classic real-time strategy game with a rich eSports history, particularly in South Korea.
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