Whether you’re looking to jump in as a player or enjoy the excitement as a spectator, there are countless ways to get involved with esports, including options to play directly from your mobile device. Here’s a comprehensive look at what esports are, the popular games to check out, and how you can join in as a player or fan.
What is Esports?
Esports, or electronic sports, is competitive, organised gaming where professional players or teams face off in games ranging from real-time strategy to first-person shooters. These events are streamed online and, in some cases, televised, attracting large audiences and major sponsorships. The games can vary widely, but each has its own competitive scene and fanbase.
With impressive cash prizes, international tournaments, and dedicated fan communities, esports have rapidly gained legitimacy and popularity, making them a cultural phenomenon that rivals traditional sports.
Getting Started as a Player
Becoming an esports player isn’t just about jumping into a game—it’s about dedicating time and energy to mastering it. With the right tools, training, and strategy, you can get started and potentially even turn a profit from your skills.
Choose Your Game
Start by choosing a game that interests you and aligns with your strengths. Here are some popular esports genres and games to consider:
Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA)
Games like League of Legends and Dota 2 are complex and strategic, requiring players to work as a team to conquer opponents.
First-Person Shooters (FPS)
Titles like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Valorant, and Overwatch focus on shooting and tactics. These games demand quick reflexes and precision.
Battle Royales
Games like Fortnite, PUBG, and Apex Legends pit players against each other in a free-for-all format until only one player or team remains.
Sports Games
If you enjoy traditional sports, try games like FIFA or NBA 2K, where players control a team or athlete and compete in virtual stadiums.
Fighting Games
Titles like Street Fighter, Tekken, and Super Smash Bros. feature one-on-one or team-based matches with fast-paced combat.
Take time to experiment with a few genres and games to see what you enjoy most. Once you find your favourite, you can start focusing on improving your skills.
Practice Regularly
Esports games are highly competitive, so consistent practice is essential. Setting aside time daily or weekly will help you master mechanics, understand the meta (the dominant strategies or characters), and improve reaction times. Online resources, like YouTube tutorials, Twitch streams, and guides, can be incredibly helpful in learning the basics and fine-tuning your approach.
Join Online Communities
Esports thrives on community and joining one can be a great way to get tips, find practice partners, and stay updated on game trends. Many games have dedicated Discord servers, Reddit communities, and fan sites where players discuss strategies, share tips, and organise friendly matches. Being part of a community can help you gain a deeper understanding of the game and give you a support network as you progress.
Compete in Online Tournaments
Once you’ve built some confidence, try competing in online tournaments. Many platforms like Battlefy, Toornament, and Challengermode host tournaments for various skill levels, allowing you to gain competitive experience. If you’re good enough, you might even win some cash prizes. Local tournaments or smaller events are often more accessible for beginners, making them a great place to start.
Playing Esports on Mobile
Mobile gaming has taken off, allowing you to enjoy esports anytime, anywhere. Some of the most popular esports games have mobile versions, while other games are mobile-exclusive but have thriving competitive scenes.
Popular Mobile Esports Games
PUBG Mobile
PUBG’s mobile version is almost as popular as the PC original, with many players competing in high-stakes tournaments around the world.
Mobile Legends: Bang Bang
This MOBA game is huge in Southeast Asia and has competitive leagues across the globe.
Clash Royale
A unique strategy game where players use cards to deploy troops, Clash Royale offers a fast-paced and strategic experience.
Call of Duty: Mobile
With a battle royale mode and multiplayer battles, Call of Duty: Mobile has attracted a noteworthy competitive scene.
Arena of Valor
Similar to League of Legends, this game is one of the biggest MOBA titles in the mobile esports scene.
Whether you’re commuting, on a lunch break, or just prefer the flexibility of playing on your phone, mobile esports offer a convenient way to get in on the action.
Becoming an Esports Spectator
You don’t need to be a player to enjoy esports! Many fans love following the action, watching pro players compete, and rooting for their favourite teams. As a spectator, you get to experience the thrill of esports without the intense training, and you can even enjoy betting on esports like you would on games at Black Lotus online casino.
In esports you can place various bets, including Match Winner, where you predict the winning team, and Prop bets, such as First Kill or Map Victor. Other options include handicap betting, over/under on total rounds, and outright bets on tournament winners.
Just like in traditional sports, it’s best to start by following the games you enjoy. If you’re a fan of strategy, MOBA or RTS games might be more engaging. For adrenaline-pumping action, FPS or fighting games are a great choice. Each game genre offers a different viewing experience, so don’t hesitate to try a few.
If you’re interested in seeing esports live, attending a tournament can be an unforgettable experience. Many major tournaments are held in arenas or stadiums, complete with live audiences, light shows, and fan activities. Esports events often draw large, passionate crowds, creating an atmosphere similar to a traditional sports game. You get to cheer for your favourite teams, meet other fans, and watch the best players in the world compete right before your eyes.
Why Esports is Worth Watching
Esports has all the elements of traditional sports—skilled players, strategic depth, intense competition, and a dedicated fanbase. It’s thrilling to watch players use teamwork and lightning-fast reflexes to pull off impressive plays.
For many, watching esports is also about community. Fans worldwide discuss strategies, celebrate victories, and analyse each match, creating a shared experience that crosses cultural and geographic boundaries.
