Esports betting has rapidly gained traction over the last decade, becoming a multi-billion-dollar industry. With millions of fans worldwide, esports offers a thrilling and dynamic environment for betting enthusiasts. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of betting on esports, the most popular tournaments to target, how to choose the right betting platform, and strategies for success.
Esports has become popular recently, transforming from a niche hobby to a global phenomenon. The competitive gaming scene now attracts millions of viewers and participants worldwide, with significant events like League of Legends, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, and Dota 2 regularly drawing huge audiences. As the esports industry has expanded, so too has the world of esports betting. Bettors now have a wide range of games, tournaments, and markets, making it an exciting time to get involved.
Popular Types of Esports Tournaments to Bet On
One of the first steps to understand how to bet on esports is to learn which games and tournaments are the most popular for betting.
Here are some of the best esports games to bet on and events to consider:
| League of Legends (LoL) | League of Legends is one of the most popular games in esports, with a massive global following. Its annual World Championship is the most high-profile event, and betting markets around it are widely available. Bettors can place wagers on team performance, match outcomes, and in-game statistics like kills, gold earned, and objectives taken. |
| Dota 2 | Dota 2 has a vast esports presence, mainly due to its annual tournament, The International (TI). With enormous prize pools, TI attracts top-tier players and global attention. Betting markets often cover match results, player performance, and game-breaking strategies or tactics. |
| Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) | CS:GO is one of the oldest esports titles yet remains a major presence in the betting world. With multiple significant tournaments, such as ESL Pro League and IEM Katowice, it offers a variety of betting opportunities. Punters can bet on match winners, round outcomes, and total kills. |
| Valorant | After its release, Riot Games’ Valorant quickly became one of the top first-person shooters for esports betting. With regular competitive events and large international tournaments like Masters and Champions, there’s always something to wager on, including individual player statistics and team matchups. |
| Fortnite | Fortnite’s blend of battle royale mechanics and competitive esports offers unique betting opportunities for its large-scale competitions. From individual performances to overall tournament rankings, Fortnite has an ever-evolving esports scene with plenty of betting options. |
How to Choose a Platform for Esports Betting
Now that you know which esports events to bet on, choosing a reliable and trustworthy betting platform is crucial. Some factors to consider when picking the best site for your needs include:
- Reputation and Licensing
Always check if the platform is licensed and regulated by a reputable gaming authority. A licensed platform ensures fair play and security for your funds and personal data.
- Available Markets
Different betting platforms offer different markets for esports betting. Make sure the platform you choose provides the betting options you seek: match outcomes, player statistics, or in-game events.
- Odds Comparison
Not all platforms offer the same odds, so compae them across multiple sites. Some platforms may offer better esports betting odds on specific esports titles or events, increasing your chances of higher returns.
- Payment Methods and Withdrawals
A good betting platform should offer a variety of payment methods for deposits and withdrawals. For ease of transactions, look for platforms that support trusted payment methods like credit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies.
- Customer Support
Esports betting can sometimes involve technical issues or questions about specific bets. Ensure the platform offers reliable and responsive customer support, ideally 24/7, to assist you when needed.
Strategies for Successful Esports Betting
As with any form of betting, success in esports requires a mix of knowledge, strategy, and discipline.
Like traditional sports betting, understanding the teams, players, and meta (game mechanics) is essential also for the esports. Follow the competitive scene, watch games, and stay updated on player form, team dynamics, and tournament results. This knowledge can provide you with an advantage when placing bets.
It is better to focus on betting on games and tournaments you are familiar with. If you know a particular game or team well, you’ll be better equipped to make informed betting decisions. Keep in mind that some esports betting markets can be more complex than others. Start with more straightforward bets, such as match winners or total kills, before venturing into intricate markets like first blood or total objectives.
As a beginner, start placing smaller bets until you understand how esports betting tips work. It’s crucial to manage your bankroll effectively to minimize the risk of significant losses. Create a budget for your betting activities and adhere to it.
Do not forget take advantage of promotions and bonuses as many betting platforms offer them to attract new customers. These can provide extra value when placing your bets, so take advantage of any offers that boost your bankroll.
Popular Esports Betting Websites
Numerous esports betting platforms are available online, each offering different features, odds, and game selections. We have chosen some of the most reputable and popular esports betting websites:
Betway
Betway is one of the leading platforms for esports betting. Known for its wide selection of betting markets and competitive odds, Betway covers a variety of games such as CS:GO, Dota 2, and League of Legends. The platform also offers live betting, allowing you to place wagers while the action unfolds.
GG.bet
GG.bet has quickly established itself as a favorite among esports bettors. The website focuses heavily on popular titles like Dota 2, CS:GO, and League of Legends. It offers a range of betting options, including pre-match and live betting, as well as enticing promotions for new users.
Pinnacle
Pinnacle is another top choice for esports betting, renowned for offering some of the highest odds in the industry. The platform provides coverage for a wide variety of games and is known for its no-limit betting policy, which allows you to place large bets without restrictions.
Bet365
Bet365, a global leader in online sports betting, also offers esports betting. With a comprehensive sportsbook and an intuitive platform, Bet365 covers a range of esports games, such as Overwatch, League of Legends, and CS:GO. The site also offers live streaming for specific events, adding to the overall betting experience.
Key Features of Esports Betting Websites
Esports betting platforms often feature a variety of elements designed to enhance the user experience and make the betting process more enjoyable.
- Wide Game Selection.
The best esports betting websites cover a variety of popular games. Whether you’re a League of Legends or Fortnite fan, a reputable platform should offer a broad selection of games and events to bet on, ensuring there’s always something to wager on.
- Live Betting Options.
Many esports betting platforms offer live betting, where you can place wagers during a match as it happens. It adds an extra layer of excitement as the odds fluctuate in real-time based on the action unfolding on-screen. Live betting is popular in games with quick, action-packed rounds, like CS:GO and Valorant. - Betting Markets.
Esports betting sites often offer more than just basic match-winner bets. Depending on the platform, you can find various markets, such as betting on first kills, number of rounds won, total kills, or even player-specific performances like MVP votes. - Bonus and Promotions.
Many esports betting websites offer sign-up bonuses, free bets, or deposit bonuses to attract new users. These promotions are an excellent way for bettors to increase their bankrolls and start betting with a boost. Review the terms and conditions to comprehend the wagering requirements and restrictions. - Live Streaming.
Some esports betting sites allow you to watch the games live while you bet. This feature enhances the overall experience, letting you track your bets in real time and better understand how the match unfolds. - Mobile Compatibility.
Many betting platforms now offer mobile apps or mobile-optimized websites, allowing users to place bets on the go. Whether you’re watching a match at home or on the move, mobile compatibility ensures you never miss an opportunity to place a bet.
Conclusion
Esports betting can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it requires research, patience, and the ability to make informed decisions. Start by focusing on a few games and tournaments, and remember to choose a reputable betting platform that suits your needs. Keep learning about esports, develop strategies, and manage your bets wisely. With the right approach, esports betting can provide a thrilling way to engage with your favorite games and potentially earn a profit.
FAQ
1. What is esports betting?
Esports betting places wagers on the outcome of competitive video game matches and tournaments. Like traditional sports betting, you can predict the result of games, matches, or specific in-game events and player performances. Popular games for esports betting include League of Legends, Dota 2, CS:GO, and Valorant.
2. What kinds of bets can I place on esports?
Esports betting websites offer a wide variety of betting markets, including:
- Match Winner. Bet on the team or player you think will win a specific match.
- Tournament Winner. Wager on the team or player that will win a specific tournament.
- Live Betting. Place bets on events happening in real time during a match.
- Player Bets. Bet on individual player performances, such as kills, MVP votes, or first blood.
- Total Kills/Rounds. Bet how many kills or rounds a team or player will get during a match.
3. Which esports tournaments are the best to bet on?
Some of the most popular esports tournaments for betting include:
- League of Legends World Championship.
- Dota 2 The International (TI).
- CS:GO Major Tournaments (e.g., ESL Pro League, IEM Katowice).
- Valorant Champions Tour (VCT).
- Fortnite World Cup.
- Overwatch.
These tournaments offer high levels of competition and large prize pools, making them ideal for esports betting.
4. What should I know before placing a bet on esports?
- Research the Game and Teams. Know the players, teams, and current form. Understanding the meta and strategies in the game can help you make more informed bets.
- Start Small. If you’re new to esports betting, start with smaller bets to minimize risk while learning the ropes.
- Manage Your Bankroll. Establish a budget for your betting activities and follow it. Avoid chasing losses and bet responsibly.
- Bet on What You Know. Focus on games or tournaments you’re familiar with, as this will give you an edge in understanding team dynamics and player performances.
5. What are some top esports betting websites?
Some of the most popular and trusted esports betting platforms include:
- Betway Esports
- GG.bet
- Pinnacle
- Bet365
These platforms offer a range of betting markets, competitive odds, and user-friendly features for bettors of all experience levels.
6. Can I bet on esports from my mobile device?
Yes, most esports betting platforms offer mobile-optimized websites or dedicated apps for Android and iOS. It allows you to place bets and watch live events on the go, ensuring you never miss a betting opportunity.
7. Are esports betting websites legal?
The legality of esports betting depends on the regulations of your country or region. In some countries, online esports betting is fully legal and regulated; in others, it may be restricted or illegal. Always check local laws and choose licensed, regulated platforms to ensure a safe and legal betting experience.
8. What is live betting in esports?
Live betting, or in-play betting, allows you to place bets during a match as it unfolds. This form of betting offers dynamic odds that change in real time based on the events happening in the game. Live betting is particularly popular for esports in fast-paced games like CS:GO, Valorant, and Overwatch.
