eSports Betting

Understanding Esports Betting: A Beginner’s Guide To Esports Betting

Esports betting involves wagering on the outcome of professional video game tournaments and matches.

What is Esports Betting?

As you likely already know, esports refers to organised competitive gaming, and many of the world’s most popular games, such as League of Legends, Dota 2, and CS2, operate large professional leagues and circuits. 

Esports betting works much like traditional sports betting. You can place wagers on matchup winners, handicaps that give points to the perceived underdog, over or under bets on the map or game totals, and player/team props. Sites will offer pre-match and live betting options. 

For pre-match bets, you make your selections before the match start time and your bet is locked in. Live betting lets you bet in play as the action unfolds. Odds update based on how the match is going. Popular in-game bets include winners of the next round or map.

Popular Esports Titles to Bet On

One interesting thing about esports betting is that it offers an array of games you can select from, including first-person shooter games as well as multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs). Let’s take a look at some of the top games you can consider for esports betting.

1. League of Legends

League of Legends is one of the most popular esports globally. Teams of 5 battle it out on Summoner’s Rift aiming to destroy the enemy Nexus. Matches take 20-50 minutes and are best of 1 or 3. Bet on match winners, map totals over/under 2.5 or 3.5 maps, and player props like first blood or most kills. Worlds is the biggest annual tournament.

2. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive

In CS: GO, terrorists battle counter-terrorists in bomb defusal or hostage scenarios. Rounds last 2-3 minutes and matches are best of 30 rounds or 16 rounds in professional play. Bet on round/map handicaps totals over 26.5/27.5 rounds. Major tournaments award $1 million. Popular player bets include top fragger.

3. Dota 2

Teams of 5 battle to destroy the enemy’s ancient structure in this MOBA. Matches run 30-60+ minutes and are best of 1 or 3 maps. Wager on match winners, maps totals over/under 2.5 or 3.5 maps. Popular prop bets are first blood, and early-game kills. The International is the best-known annual tournament.

4. Valorant

Valorant is a tactical shooter from Riot Games similar to Counter-Strike. Two teams of 5 battle in bomb defusal or Spike Rush game modes. Professional matches are best of 24 and 30 rounds. Popular bets include map winners, totals over 26.5 rounds, and player props for MVP, most kills or opening kills. As a relatively new release, its esports scene is growing fast with high-production tournaments held globally. Major competitions include VCT Masters and Champions.

5. Overwatch 

Two 6-player teams face off in objective-based game modes like Escort, Assault or Control the Point. Professional matches are best of 5 maps. Most bet types centre around maps totals over or under a certain number, usually 2.5 or 3.5 maps. Player props for MVP, most kills or healing done are common too. The Overwatch League features geographic team franchises playing a regular season and playoffs spanning multiple stages. The regular season winner earns a sizable prize pool.

6. Rocket League

This game sees rocket-powered cars attempting to score goals against the other team. Matches consist of a best of 5 or 7 games of 5 minutes each. Popular bets cover map winners, game handicaps (e.g. +0.5 or -1), and totals over or under a posted number like 4.5 games. Player props focus on stats like MVP, saves, goals or assists.

Types of Esports Bets

  • Match Betting

Simply pick the winning team. Most basic bet type but the odds will be lower. Pay attention to maps/servers where one team has an advantage. 

  • Handicap Betting

Used to level the playing field for perceived underdogs. They are given a handicap start of rounds, kills or maps. Bet on the team is expected to overcome the handicap. Can offer better odds than straight bets.

  • Spread Betting

Similar to Asian handicap bets. A team is given/conceded a specific number of rounds, maps or other metrics. The stake is returned if the team wins by that margin. Good for targeting stronger/weaker halves of a favourite.

  • Total Map/Round Betting

Wager whether the total number of maps/rounds played will be over or under a bookmaker’s posted total. Often set at 2.5 or 3.5 maps. Research past matchups and team forms for insight.

  • Player/Team Props

Bets on occurrences like MVP, first blood, kills/assists totals, etc. Can offer bigger payouts but also more variability. Research player/team histories and do not overvalue favourites.   

  • Tournament/Season Winner

Bet on your selection to ultimately win a significant esports tournament or league title over the long term. Low odds but big potential payouts if correct. Requires evaluating form over many matches/months.

How to Bet on Esports

Now that you understand the basic types of esports bets offered, here are the typical steps to placing a wager:

  • Choose a licensed and reputable esports betting site to sign up for a real-money account. Deposit funds using available secure payment options. 
  • Browse the site to esports markets and locate an upcoming match or tournament you want to bet on. 
  • Decide your selection – will you back the favourite team, an underdog, or bet the over/under on maps/rounds? Consider odds, matchup history and your analysis. 
  • Determine your stake amount based on your predetermined bankroll limits. Enter your selection and stake size to place the bet. 
  • For pre-match bets, your wager is now locked in to be settled after the event concludes. Live bets allow wagering as the action unfolds in real time.
  • After the match or tournament, check your bet slip to see if you were successful. Wins will be paid out according to the odds offered. Losses mean your stake is deducted.
  • Have fun, and enjoy the games themselves, but always gamble responsibly within your means as outlined earlier.

Choosing an Esports Betting Site

Before choosing an esports betting site, there are some factors you should consider for the best betting experience possible. However, we have given some recommendations on a few betting sites below.

Key Factors to Consider

Key factors like licensing, markets, payment options, and experience matter. Always verify proper registration, legitimacy, and reviews from experts you trust. Safety should be your priority. Here are some additional considerations:

1. Betting Markets 

Check which esports titles are supported and that your desired bet types like props and live betting options are offered. Avoid sites with limited choices.

2. Bonuses and Promotions

Many will match your first deposit 100-200% up to a certain amount. Use in moderation and read all terms to understand wagering requirements. Some run regular reloads, referrals and risk-free bets.

3. Reputation and Reviews

Reputable sites protect personal/financial data and quickly process withdrawals. Look for those with a proven multi-year track record. Refer to third-party review sites and esports communities discussing various sites.

4. Mobile Functionality  

Consider if the site works smoothly across various devices, as esports viewing and betting are commonly done on phones/tablets too. Apps are preferable over mobile sites. This enhances your experience.

5. Payment Speed and Fees

Fast, low/no cost deposits and withdrawals are preferable to slow, expensive options. Note currency conversion fees if betting internationally. E-wallets usually have the lowest/quickest overhead. 

Recommended Esports Betting Sites

1. Betway 

Betwaty is an established global sportsbook known for its esports focus. Over 30 supported games with pre-match and live markets. Welcome bonus 100% up to $1000. It has a smooth site and app experience with rapid withdrawals. Bet $10 min on odds 1.8 or higher to release the bonus. Overall, it’s a safe and trusted option.

2. Bet365

Bet365 is a trusted sportsbook that has expanded esports rapidly. It has a $500 bonus at 100% match. It boasts of over 30 supported games with a generous 10x wagering release. It also has a wide array of pre-game and live markets across Match, Map, and Spread betting. The downside is a high $25 min stake size.

3. Parimatch

This is a rising Eurasian operator entering NA. It also has a 200% deposit, which matches up to $2,000. The award-winning live betting platform also allows crypto deposits plus instant withdrawals. Over 20 games are covered with competitive odds boosts. Known for generous reload bonuses and surprise daily free bets. It has a user-friendly interface which makes it a good all-around option.

4. 1XBET

Popular global operators expand their esports portfolio rapidly. It has a 100% up to $100 first deposit match. Live streaming enhances betting. Over 25 supported titles spanning FPS, MOBAs and fighting games. Competitive live odds help to boost promotions. 24/7 support lags tier 1 western sites.

5. GG.Bet

This unique platform attracts attention for crypto focus and competitive US-friendly markets. It has 200% deposit matches up to 1 BTC and supports 15+ games. Award-winning pre-game and live betting markets interface. Fast rising alongside esports community growth. Overall clean, sharp experience.

Esports Betting Tips for Beginners 

  • Start with Research

Familiarize yourself with game basics, top teams, players and their histories. Study past match results, stats, maps, and trends for competitive advantages. Avoid overvaluing favourites based solely on name recognition. Know what you’re betting on.

  • Bankroll Management 

Only wager what you can afford to lose. Use 1-5% of your total bankroll per bet maximum. Build your bankroll slowly through value bets rather than chasing losses. Cashing out partially when ahead preserves profits and lets you enjoy long-term betting. 

  • Understand Values and Odds

Consider if the odds offered match your expectations of the resulting likelihood. Only bet markets that you have an edge. Convert odds to percentages for easier comparison across formats (fractional, decimal). Shop lines to find the most value. 

  • Avoid Emotional/Tilt Betting

It’s easy to chase losses after a bad beat but this usually continues the losing pattern. Instead, walk away, re-evaluate and come back with a fresh perspective. Stick to your betting plan and predetermined bet sizes regardless of outcomes. Keep emotions out of it.

  • Utilize Promotions and Bonuses 

Use bonuses intelligently to pad your initial bankroll faster. Read all terms to understand play-through requirements before funding your account. Gather referral links for bonus funds by bringing others aboard. Many experienced bettors profit solely on value created through promotions. 

  • Follow Esports Media and Experts

Stay informed with news sites, podcasts, Twitch and YouTube channels dedicated to esports. They keep you updated on rosters, injuries/storylines. Top experts reveal hidden stats and analyze teams. Their predictions help identify value additions to your own research.

Responsible Gambling

Setting Betting Limits and Taking Breaks

To keep gambling entertainment rather than a concern, set betting budgets before starting. Decide a daily/weekly loss stop that should not be exceeded. Example limits could be 1-5% of your bankroll per betting session. Take occasional days off from betting even when winning to prevent it from dominating your routine. Analyzing matches should not feel like an obligation. Maintaining control over your betting helps ensure you remain having fun instead of becoming fixated on losses.

Recognizing Signs of Problem Gambling 

Warning signs you may be developing an unhealthy relationship with betting include gambling more often when feeling stressed, chasing losses, lying about the extent of your activity or relying on gambling as an escape from real problems. If it negatively impacts your responsibilities, health, relationships or finances, you likely have a serious issue with gambling. Reach out right away before it worsens. The earlier you recognize signs, the easier it will be to get help.

Seek Help and Resources  

If you suspect gambling may be influencing you in unhealthy ways, do not hesitate to seek counselling from experts. Many countries operate national support hotlines and addiction resources for gambling disorders. Some are free of charge. Counselling and therapy can help address the emotional or mental factors driving addictive behaviours. In some locations, support groups of others experiencing similar issues may also be available to attend. The journey to responsible gambling starts with openly acknowledging any issues and committing to improvement with the help of qualified professionals. Your well-being should be the primary priority.

Conclusion

In summary, for successful esports betting,  focus on research, bankroll management, value bets rather than chasing, and keeping emotions out of gambling decisions. Approach esports betting as entertainment that also carries risk. Enjoy the games themselves first and foremost rather than betting solely for profit or due to addiction. With discipline, you can participate responsibly for the long term. I hope this guide has outlined everything needed to get started on the right foot. Let me know if any part needs more clarification or expansion.