If you are in the gaming industry, you must have heard about eSports. Today, we’ll explore some of the best eSports games to try. Electronic sports (eSports), is a rapidly growing industry in which professional gamers compete in organized video game tournaments. With the rise of technology and internet connectivity, esports has become a global phenomenon. It is now attracting millions of viewers, fans, and participants.
Esports is the collective name for a variety of competitive video games. Originally starting as local events with small prize pools, esports has become a huge financial success. Today’s esports boast multi-million dollar prize pools, merchandise, and live-streaming events. Our list of the top seven best esports games is a collection of some competitive titles that are being played for fantastic amounts of cash.
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What’s a Great Esports Game?
One of the top contenders for a great esports game is undoubtedly “League of Legends” (LoL). With its strategic depth, fast-paced gameplay, and immense popularity, LoL has become a staple in the esports scene. Its competitive nature, combined with regular updates and a dedicated community, keeps players engaged and spectators entertained.
The game’s professional scene features massive tournaments like the League of Legends World Championship, drawing millions of viewers worldwide. LoL’s accessibility, with a free-to-play model and a vast player base, ensures its longevity as a premier esports title.
What do you mean by eSports?
Esports, short for electronic sports, refers to competitive video gaming at a professional level. In esports, players or teams compete against each other in various video games, often in organized tournaments or leagues. These competitions can range from small local events to large-scale international tournaments with substantial prize pools.
Esports has gained significant popularity in recent years, with millions of viewers tuning in to watch live streams and broadcasts of matches. Professional esports players dedicate extensive time and effort to mastering their chosen games, much like traditional athletes, and can earn substantial incomes through prize winnings, sponsorships, and endorsements.
How We Picked Our Favorite Esports Games
Choosing favorite esports games often involves a mix of personal preference, popularity, and competitive scene. Here’s how we might pick our favorites:
Personal Preference: Each individual has their tastes and preferences when it comes to video games. Some may enjoy fast-paced shooters like “Counter-Strike: Global Offensive” (CS:GO), while others prefer strategy-based games like “StarCraft II.” Personal enjoyment and engagement with a game often play a significant role in determining favorites.
Popularity and Community: The popularity of a game can influence its appeal as an esports title. Games with large player bases tend to have thriving esports scenes, as there are more competitors and spectators. Titles like “League of Legends,” “Dota 2,” and “Fortnite” boast massive player communities and consequently attract considerable attention in the esports world.
Competitive Scene: The competitive landscape of a game can greatly impact its status as a favorite esports title. Games with well-established and professionally organized tournaments, such as the “Call of Duty” franchise’s Call of Duty League (CDL) or the “Overwatch” League (OWL), often garner respect and admiration from both players and fans alike.
Game Design and Depth: The design and depth of a game contribute to its longevity and suitability for competitive play. Esports titles with complex mechanics, deep strategy, and skill-based gameplay tend to have enduring appeal. Games like “Super Smash Bros. Melee” and “Street Fighter V” are beloved by many for their depth and competitive complexity.
Innovation and Updates: Regular updates, balance patches, and innovative features can keep a game fresh and exciting for both players and spectators. Titles that continuously evolve, adapt to player feedback, and introduce new content often maintain their relevance in the esports scene over time.
The Best Esports Games for 2024
The world of esports continues to expand and evolve, with each passing year bringing new games, tournaments, and players into the spotlight. As we delve into 2024, the landscape of competitive gaming is more vibrant and diverse than ever before. From battle royales to MOBAs, fighting games to sports simulations, there is a plethora of titles captivating audiences and drawing in competitors from around the globe.
In this extensive analysis, we will explore the top esports games of 2024, examining their popularity, competitive scenes, player bases, and growth potential. From established giants like League of Legends to rising stars such as Apex Legends, each game offers a unique blend of strategy, skill, and excitement that keeps fans coming back for more.
Apex Legends:
Since its release in 2019, Apex Legends has taken the gaming world by storm, quickly establishing itself as one of the premier titles in the battle royale genre. Developed by Respawn Entertainment and published by Electronic Arts, Apex Legends injects fresh energy into the familiar formula with its unique cast of characters, fast-paced gameplay, and innovative ping system.
In 2024, Apex Legends continues to thrive as a prominent esports title, attracting both casual players and seasoned professionals alike. The game’s competitive scene is bolstered by regular tournaments, including the Apex Legends Global Series, which offers substantial prize pools and opportunities for aspiring competitors to make a name for themselves.
Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0:
Following the success of its predecessor, Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0 builds upon the foundation laid by the original battle royale mode introduced in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare. Developed by Infinity Ward and Raven Software, Warzone 2.0 delivers heart-pounding action, strategic gameplay, and stunning visuals set within the iconic Call of Duty universe.
In 2024, Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0 remains a dominant force in the esports scene, with its fast-paced matches and intense firefights captivating audiences worldwide. The game’s competitive landscape is characterized by high-stakes tournaments and events, including the Call of Duty League Championship Series, where top teams compete for glory and lucrative prizes.
Dota 2:
As one of the most popular and enduring MOBAs (Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas), Dota 2 continues to stand as a cornerstone of the esports community. Developed by Valve Corporation, Dota 2 boasts a rich tapestry of heroes, deep gameplay mechanics, and a fiercely competitive environment that has captivated millions of players around the world.
In 2024, Dota 2 remains a staple of the esports scene, with its annual flagship event, The International, serving as a highlight of the competitive calendar. With its record-breaking prize pools and passionate fanbase, The International attracts top teams from across the globe, all vying for the coveted Aegis of Champions and a place in esports history.
Dragon Ball FighterZ:
Drawing inspiration from the iconic Dragon Ball franchise, Dragon Ball FighterZ delivers pulse-pounding 2D fighting action, stunning visuals, and a diverse roster of characters beloved by fans of the series. Developed by Arc System Works, Dragon Ball FighterZ combines accessible gameplay with deep mechanics, making it a hit among both casual players and competitive enthusiasts.
In 2024, Dragon Ball FighterZ continues to carve out a niche in the esports landscape, with its electrifying matches and flashy combos captivating audiences worldwide. The game’s competitive scene is bolstered by events such as the Dragon Ball FighterZ World Tour, where top players showcase their skills in epic showdowns for fame and glory.
Fortnite:
Since its release in 2017, Fortnite has become a cultural phenomenon, transcending the boundaries of gaming to become a global sensation. Developed by Epic Games, Fortnite’s unique blend of building, shooting, and survival elements has propelled it to unprecedented levels of popularity, attracting millions of players and viewers alike.
In 2024, Fortnite remains a powerhouse in the esports world, with its vibrant community and constant updates keeping the game fresh and exciting. While the competitive scene has evolved over the years, with Epic Games introducing new formats and events, Fortnite continues to draw in top talent and generate massive viewership numbers during tournaments and championships.
The King of Fighters XV:
As the latest installment in SNK’s long-running fighting game series, The King of Fighters XV brings classic arcade-style combat to a new generation of players. Developed by SNK Corporation, The King of Fighters XV features a diverse roster of characters, intricate mechanics, and fast-paced gameplay that appeals to both casual fans and seasoned veterans alike.
In 2024, The King of Fighters XV will make waves in the esports scene, with its competitive community growing steadily and garnering attention from fighting game enthusiasts worldwide. With tournaments such as the King of Fighters World Championship offering players the chance to prove their skills on the global stage, the game continues to build momentum as a competitive force to be reckoned with.
League of Legends:
As one of the most popular and influential esports titles of all time, League of Legends holds a special place in the hearts of millions of players and fans worldwide. Developed by Riot Games, League of Legends revolutionized the MOBA genre with its accessible gameplay, deep strategy, and rich lore, setting the standard for competitive gaming in the process.
In 2024, League of Legends remains a juggernaut in the esports world, with its annual World Championship attracting massive viewership and offering unprecedented levels of competition. With a thriving ecosystem of regional leagues, international tournaments, and a dedicated player base, League of Legends continues to set the bar for excellence in esports.
Mortal Kombat 1:
As the inaugural entry in one of gaming’s most iconic fighting game franchises, Mortal Kombat 1 holds a special place in the hearts of fans and players alike. Developed by Midway Games, Mortal Kombat 1 introduced the world to its signature blend of fast-paced combat, brutal finishing moves, and memorable characters, setting the stage for decades of gaming excellence.
In 2024, Mortal Kombat 1 retains its status as a beloved classic and a cornerstone of the fighting game community. While newer entries in the series have since taken center stage in the competitive scene, Mortal Kombat 1 continues to be celebrated through retro tournaments, exhibitions, and nostalgic events that pay homage to its enduring legacy.
Overwatch 2:
Building upon the success of its predecessor, Overwatch 2 promises to deliver the same fast-paced action, strategic depth, and vibrant characters that made the original game a global phenomenon. Developed by Blizzard Entertainment, Overwatch 2 introduces new heroes, maps, and gameplay modes, while retaining the core elements that have endeared it to millions of players worldwide.
In 2024, Overwatch 2 will emerge as a major player in the esports landscape, with its dynamic gameplay and captivating team-based battles captivating audiences around the globe. With the Overwatch League showcasing top talent from across the world and major tournaments offering substantial prize pools and prestige, Overwatch 2 continues to solidify its position as a premier esports title.
PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG):
As one of the pioneers of the battle royale genre, PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) has left an indelible mark on the world of gaming since its release in 2017. Developed by PUBG Corporation, PUBG offers tense, tactical gameplay set within expansive maps, challenging players to outwit and outmaneuver their opponents in a fight for survival.
In 2024, PUBG maintains a dedicated player base and a thriving competitive scene, with tournaments such as the PUBG Global Championship attracting top teams from around the world. While newer battle royale titles have since emerged to challenge its dominance, PUBG continues to stand as a seminal entry in the genre, beloved by players and respected by competitors.
Rocket League:
Combining the thrill of soccer with the high-flying action of vehicular acrobatics, Rocket League has captivated players with its unique blend of sports and arcade-style gameplay since its release in 2015. Developed by Psyonix, Rocket League pits teams of rocket-powered cars against each other in fast-paced matches where skill, strategy, and teamwork reign supreme.
In 2024, Rocket League remains a beloved esports title, with its simple yet addictive gameplay attracting players of all ages and skill levels. The game’s competitive scene is bolstered by events such as the Rocket League Championship Series, where top teams compete for glory and substantial prize pools, showcasing the game’s potential as a premier esports title.
Conclusion:
As we look ahead to the future of esports in 2024, it’s clear that the industry is poised for continued growth and innovation. From established juggernauts like League of Legends and Dota 2 to up-and-coming contenders like Apex Legends and Dragon Ball FighterZ, the world of competitive gaming offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re a casual fan tuning in to watch your favorite players compete or a dedicated competitor striving for greatness on the global stage, the esports landscape is brimming with excitement, opportunity, and endless possibilities. As new games emerge, new stars rise, and new stories unfold, one thing remains certain: the best is yet to come in the world of esports.
FAQs
What makes a game suitable for esports?
Games suitable for esports typically have several key features: balanced gameplay, a high skill ceiling, spectator appeal, a dedicated player base, and developer support for competitive play. Games that offer strategic depth, fast-paced action, and opportunities for individual skill expression tend to thrive in the esports scene.
How can I get involved in the esports community?
There are several ways to get involved in the esports community. You can start by participating in online tournaments, joining local gaming clubs or organizations, attending esports events and conventions, streaming your gameplay on platforms like Twitch, or even becoming a volunteer or staff member for esports tournaments or organizations.
What are some upcoming trends in the esports industry?
Some emerging trends in the esports industry include the rise of mobile esports, increased investment in women’s esports, the growth of collegiate esports programs, the development of virtual reality (VR) esports, and the expansion of esports into mainstream entertainment through collaborations with traditional sports leagues and media outlets.
Are esports players considered athletes?
The classification of esports players as athletes is a topic of debate. While they may not engage in physical activity to the same extent as traditional athletes, esports players often undergo rigorous training schedules, mental preparation, and strategic analysis similar to traditional sports. Some argue that the term “athlete” should encompass individuals who compete at the highest level in their respective fields, regardless of the physical nature of the activity.
How do esports tournaments work?
Esports tournaments vary in structure depending on the game, but they typically involve qualifying rounds, group stages, and knockout brackets leading to a final championship match. Players or teams compete against each other in matches or series of matches, with the winners advancing to the next stage of the tournament. Tournaments may be organized by game developers, esports organizations, or third-party event organizers and often feature prize pools, sponsorships, and live or online broadcasts for spectators.