Esports betting has rapidly become a popular pastime, with thousands of matches played daily and bookmakers offering odds on nearly every aspect of competitive play. If you’re new to the world of esports, don’t worry! This guide is designed to walk you through the process of placing your first esports bet, covering everything from the legalities to selecting the best sportsbooks. Whether you’re new to esports or an experienced bettor, this guide has the insights you need to get started.
Top Betting Platforms & Promotions
- BC.Game: 300% bonus with a $10 deposit, plus 60 free spins on selected games.
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Please remember to bet responsibly.
What is Esports and Esports Betting?
Esports refers to competitive video gaming, typically played in multiplayer settings where individuals or teams compete against each other, often in popular titles like League of Legends or Counter-Strike 2. Unlike casual gaming, esports involves intense competition between players or teams, often live-streamed to millions on platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook Gaming. Esports betting has become an exciting way to wager on these high-stakes events, similar to traditional sports betting.
Is Esports Betting Similar to Traditional Sports Betting?
At first glance, betting on esports may seem different from traditional sports betting. However, once you become familiar with the esports scene, you’ll find the process to be quite similar. You’ll choose a market, check the odds, and place your bet, just like in sports betting. The advantage of esports betting, however, is the interactive environment that includes live streaming, community engagement, and detailed stats, which enhance the overall experience.
Popular Esports Games and Betting Markets
- MOBA Games: Multiplayer Online Battle Arena games, like League of Legends and Dota 2, are fan favorites. Betting on these games involves predicting outcomes in tournaments such as The International and LoL World Championship.
- FPS Games: First-person shooters like Counter-Strike 2 and Valorant offer explosive action and fast-paced betting opportunities. Events like the Intel Extreme Masters highlight the excitement.
- Sports Simulators: For those familiar with traditional sports betting, titles like FIFA and NBA 2K offer a more familiar betting experience.
- Other Titles: Games like Fortnite, PUBG, Street Fighter, and Hearthstone are also popular for esports betting, with new titles emerging regularly.
Major Esports Tournaments
Esports tournaments are some of the largest sporting events globally, both in terms of viewership and prize money. Events like the League of Legends World Championship, Dota 2’s The International, and the Fortnite World Cup attract millions of viewers and offer substantial prize pools, making them prime targets for esports betting.
Where to Bet on Esports
Finding the right betting platform is key to your esports experience. There are many bookmakers that offer esports betting, ranging from mainstream sportsbooks like Bet365 to dedicated esports sites like Thunderpick and GG.Bet. Be sure to research each site to find one that covers your favorite games and offers competitive odds.
How to Bet on Esports for the First Time
To place your first bet on esports, follow these simple steps:
- Choose a Betting Site: Register an account on a platform that offers esports betting. Ensure they offer your favorite games and tournaments.
- Make a Deposit: Choose a payment method and fund your account. Many sites accept traditional payment options, as well as cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.
- Pick a Market: Browse the available betting markets for the game or tournament you want to bet on. Decide how much you want to stake and place your bet.
- Watch and Win: Enjoy the match and wait for the outcome!
Esports Betting Markets
- Match Winner: Bet on which team will win the match. You can also try handicap betting for more favorable odds.
- Outright Winner: Bet on the winner of an entire tournament, such as the CS:GO Major or LoL Worlds.
- System Bets: Combine multiple selections for higher potential payouts, but all selections must win for you to collect.
- Esports-Specific Bets: These can include bets like the first team to destroy a tower, get a kill, or win a map.
Legal Considerations and Security
It’s important to make sure that betting on esports is legal in your region. Always bet with a licensed bookmaker that offers player protection. Trusted regulatory bodies include the UK Gambling Commission and the Malta Gaming Authority. Avoid unlicensed sites to ensure fairness and security.
Cryptocurrency and Payment Methods
Many esports betting sites have embraced cryptocurrency, offering an easy and fast way to deposit and withdraw funds. If you’re using traditional payment methods, e-wallets like PayPal and Skrill are also widely accepted.
Esports Betting Bonuses
Many sportsbooks offer generous welcome bonuses to new users. These bonuses can boost your bankroll, but be sure to read the terms and conditions to understand the requirements, such as minimum deposits or wagering limits, before claiming any offer.
Tips for Successful Esports Betting
- Research Teams and Players: Keep up with the latest esports news and player performance to make informed bets.
- Live Betting: Engage with live betting markets by watching matches in real-time. This allows you to place in-play bets based on how the game is progressing.
- Bet on Major Events: Bigger tournaments offer better odds and more betting options, so try to bet on events like The International or LoL Worlds for the best opportunities.
The Future of Esports Betting
Esports is growing at an exponential rate, both as a sport and a betting industry. With a projected $3.3 billion valuation by 2028, esports betting will only continue to expand, potentially rivaling traditional sports in popularity.
By following this guide, you’re now ready to dive into the world of esports betting. Good luck, and remember to bet responsibly!
