Esports betting is one of the fastest-growing markets in online gambling. From global tournaments to regional leagues, millions of fans are not just watching but also wagering. This guide will take you through the essentials of betting on esports, what games are popular, how the odds work, and how to start betting responsibly.
What is Esports Betting?
Esports betting involves placing wagers on the outcomes of professional video game matches and tournaments. These matches are played by competitive gamers or teams and streamed live on platforms like Twitch and YouTube. Bettors place real money bets on different outcomes, such as match winner, map scores, or total kills.
How Esports Betting Works
Betting on esports is like traditional sports betting. Bookmakers set odds based on team performance, stats, and match history. Bettors then place bets before or during matches. Some of the most common types of bets include:
- Match Winner: Bet on the team or player to win the match.
- Handicap Betting: A team gets a virtual advantage or disadvantage to level the playing field.
- Total Maps/Kills: Bet over or under a specific number.
- Outright Winner: Predict the winner of an entire tournament.
- Live/In-Play Betting: Bet as the match progresses in real-time.
Types of Esports Bets You Can Place
There are various types of esports betting markets. To maximize your wagers, it’s essential to understand them. Below are the most common ones:
- Match Winner: A basic bet on which team or player will win the match. It’s like the Moneyline in traditional sports.
- Map Winner: Bet on which team will win a specific map or round in games like CS: GO or Valorant.
- First Blood: This bet predicts which team will make the first kill. Common in MOBAs like Dota 2 and LoL.
- Over/Under: You bet on whether a specific statistic (e.g., kills, rounds, maps) will be over or under the bookmaker’s line.
- Handicap Betting: A spread is applied to equalize the matchup, especially when one team is heavily favored.
- Live/In-Play Bets: Bets placed while the match is in progress. Odds change in real-time depending on the match events.
- Out rights: Long-term bets on outcomes such as who will win a league or tournament.
- Micro Bets: Fast, short-term outcomes like which team will win the next round or whether there will be a kill in the next minute.
Most Popular Esports Games to Bet On
| Game | Genre | Betting Markets Available |
| CS: GO | First-person Shooter | Winner, total rounds, pistol round winner |
| Dota 2 | MOBA | Match winner, first blood, total kills |
| League of Legends | MOBA | Winner, towers destroyed, kill total |
| Valorant | FPS | Match score, round winner, over/under maps |
| Call of Duty | FPS | Game winner, kill count, series result |
| Overwatch | FPS | Map winner, kill margin, team to score first |
| FIFA | Sports Simulation | Match winner, score line, player props |
Types of Esports Games
Esports games fall into different categories. Here are the main types:
- MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena): Team-based games played from a third-person perspective. Examples include Dota 2, League of Legends, and Mobile Legends.
- First-Person Shooters (FPS): Players view the game through the character’s eyes. Examples: CS: GO, Call of Duty, Overwatch, Valorant.
- Third-Person Shooters: Like FPS but viewed from a third-person perspective. Examples: PUBG, Gears of War, Free Fire.
- Real-Time Strategy (RTS): Strategy-based games played in real-time. Examples: StarCraft series, Warcraft.
- Fighting Games: One-on-one combat games. Examples: Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat, Super Smash Bros.
- Card-Based Games: Digital card games like Hearthstone and Magic: The Gathering Arena.
- Racing Games: Competitive racing simulators. Examples include Gran Turismo, iRacing, and F1.
- Sports Simulators: Games modelled after real-world sports. Examples: FIFA, NBA 2 K, Madden, Rocket League.
How to Start Betting on Esports
Follow these steps to get started:
- Choose a Licensed Bookmaker: Use a regulated sportsbook that offers esports markets.
- Create an Account: Register and verify your identity.
- Deposit Funds: Use secure payment options, such as cards, e-wallets, or mobile money.
- Navigate to the Esports Section: Select from games such as Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS: GO), Dota 2, or FIFA.
- Review Odds: Analyze match stats and betting odds.
- Place Your Bet: Confirm your stake and outcome.
- Watch and Track: Follow the match and check for results.
Tips for Successful Esports Betting
- Know the Game: Don’t bet on games you don’t understand.
- Follow the Scene: Watch tournaments, track player performance.
- Manage Your Bankroll: Set limits and avoid chasing losses.
- Start Small: Begin with low stakes until you gain more experience.
- Use Stats and Predictions: Research helps improve accuracy.
Live Esports Betting
Live betting is available for most top esports. It allows you to bet as the match unfolds, based on the action. Odds are dynamic and shift quickly. It requires fast decision-making and understanding of in-game momentum.
Sports Betting vs Esports Betting
While both traditional and esports betting are based on predicting outcomes, there are key differences:
- Odds and Variety: Both offer Moneyline and prop bets, but esports include more in-game events, such as map or round outcomes.
- Data Analysis: Traditional sports rely on decades of stats. Esports require up-to-date analysis because the games evolve rapidly.
- Demographics: Esports attract a younger audience. Rule changes and meta shifts can significantly impact odds.
- Match Frequency: Esports match occurs more frequently due to their digital nature, which increases the number of betting opportunities.
Responsible Esports Betting
- Set a betting budget and stick to it.
- Avoid betting on every match.
- Don’t bet emotionally; base your choices on data.
- Use account tools, such as time-outs or limits, as needed.
- Seek help if betting becomes a problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to win in esports betting?
Study the games, follow team statistics, utilize trusted prediction tools, and manage your finances. Success comes from strategy, not luck.
How to bet on esports?
Sign up for a licensed sportsbook that supports esports. Select the esports section, choose your game, and place your bet just like you would on traditional sports.
How to predict esports games?
Use team form, player performance, recent match results, and expert insights. Avoid emotional betting.
What is the best esports betting tool?
Prediction aggregators, such as HLTV (for CS: GO) and Liquipedia statistics, or advanced tipster platforms, provide bettors with a competitive edge. Look for real-time analytics.
What is the safest way to bet on esports?
Use licensed betting platforms that offer encrypted transactions and fair odds.
Can I bet on esports using my phone?
Yes. Most sportsbooks offer mobile-optimized sites or apps.
What are the most profitable esports to bet on?
Games with large competitive scenes, such as CS: GO, Dota 2, and League of Legends, offer the most betting value.
Is esports betting legal in Kenya?
Yes, if you bet through a bookmaker licensed by the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB).
Conclusion
Esports betting combines the passion for gaming with the excitement of wagering. With proper knowledge and responsible play, it offers an entertaining and potentially rewarding experience. Choose a trusted bookmaker, understand the games, and always bet within your limits.
