When we talk about sports, we usually think of football players, swimmers, jumpers, and boxers, but not someone playing a computer game. However, it’s not that simple. Esports is not just about “shooters and action games,” but also a part of 21st-century culture. Betting is also becoming very popular, and you can place bets on platforms like Betwinner. You can register here and make your betting dreams come true.
Digital Sports
In the world of “digital” sports, international tournament prize pools reach millions of dollars, and the broadcasts of these competitions attract a large audience. Prestigious tournaments are held in large stadiums, where players and spectators experience a wealth of emotions.
At first glance, it may not seem interesting to watch people play video games, or perhaps it’s even better to play a few games yourself. Scientists explain this by saying that people find it more engaging to observe players who perform better than themselves. For many, this is a chance to learn something they don’t know. They observe the actions and steps of professionals, which helps them subsequently achieve new successes.
Typically, esports games are first-person shooters or strategy games. Digital sports require high coordination between the eyes and hands, engaging various areas of the brain. There are cases where players’ heart rates reach 160-180 beats per minute, similar to marathon runners.
Why is the popularity of esports growing?
Just like in other sports, the popularity of esports is directly related to two factors. First, the presence of a popular sports base creates individuals who can directly identify themselves with the sport and appreciate the achievements of athletes. This appreciation generates interest in watching, idealizing, and imitating the best athletes. As a result, players follow tournament broadcasts, watch matches, and cheer for their favorites.
This popularity also leads to ignorance among people who underestimate the competence of esports athletes because they have no connection to the performance. Even if they play video games in their free time, the absence of competition can distort their perspective.
Competence of esports
In this regard, esports occupies an intermediate position between water polo and synchronized or artistic swimming. Often, this is the limit of its popularity. However, as the gaming scene experiences more organized competition, more players have participated in them and can appreciate the performance. People have their favorites that they follow. They dream of achieving the same success and popularity, which suggests that this is not much different from the fan culture of traditional sports.
The second factor is market attractiveness. The more money you can earn from a sport as a business, the higher the likelihood of sponsorship and better marketing for the sport and athletes. Esports is still in its infancy, partly because the landscape is constantly changing with new releases. In the long run, games designed as a service are likely to be successful.
It’s no wonder that the success of football is based on the simplicity of the game concept, something that can be easily implemented without much fuss. You don’t even need a ball, just something to kick and score. By building on this, you can eventually create entire arenas and television leagues.
Streaming of Competitions
Esports benefits from the streaming of competitions, individual players, and video production. However, with each new game, the fan base disperses again and again. Therefore, esports could become even more popular if FIFA and Starcraft II, for example, fully embraced the concept of “game as a service.” It’s just missing that final outcome.
If we take APEX Legends, for example, as a representative of the Battle Royale genre, there is no opportunity to accompany games, focus on events, and dramatically enhance them cinematically through moderation and, more importantly, production.
Where is the control room with a game master, like in The Hunger Games? In the virtual gaming zone, you can prepare millions of camera angles and implement invisible camera flights everywhere. In complex phases, you can stage fights and showcase them to spectators, analyzing tactics and mistakes. Not that this hasn’t been shown on television for decades. One can imagine that television football producers would kill for a camera flying directly behind the ball. It’s not a virtual thing.
The game server simply transmits the gameplay to a buffer on a separate moderation server, where the stream can then be processed as if it were a replay. On the moderation server, you can also use different texture resolutions, models, and animations or, for example, hide walls or show line of sight. It’s just a matter of understanding the game as a service, rather than a game played by typical gamers.
FAQ
Is sports betting a lifestyle?
Sports betting can be a part of someone’s lifestyle, but it doesn’t necessarily define a complete lifestyle on its own. It depends on how individuals approach and engage with sports betting. Some people use their knowledge to make money, while others are just looking for an adrenaline rush.
Can sports betting become addictive?
Yes, sports betting has the potential to become addictive, just like any form of gambling. Not all people can resist, especially when betting companies offer bonuses and other free rewards. It’s important to gamble responsibly and set limits to avoid developing a gambling addiction.
Is it possible to make a living from sports betting?
While there are professional bettors who make a living from sports betting, it requires extensive knowledge, experience, and a disciplined approach. It is not easy, and the majority of bettors do not generate consistent profits to sustain a living. Nothing can guarantee that even your deep knowledge will help you win a large amount of money, unless you are involved in illegal match-fixing.
What are the risks associated with sports betting as a lifestyle?
The risks of sports betting as a lifestyle include financial losses, addiction, emotional stress, and strained relationships. This leads to gambling disorders, which manifest themselves in false illusions and lack of self-control. It’s crucial to approach sports betting with caution and moderation to mitigate these risks.
