Esports has grown quickly in recent years and gained global popularity. Despite some debates about whether it’s a real sport, the facts show that it is. Here’s why Esports should be considered a sport after you’re done checking out https://22bet.com/hu.
Esports and Traditional Sports: No Real Difference
It’s hard to define what exactly makes a sport, as many have different qualities that qualify them. Most professional sports are defined by a player’s knowledge of the game. This also involves the skill needed to handle equipment, whether it’s a football, javelin, or ski poles. However, not all sports are physically demanding. There are precision sports like shooting and chess that require mental focus instead of physical strength.
By this definition, Esports is highly mentally and coordinately challenging. At the highest competitive level, operating gaming devices—whether software or hardware—is as complex as using a rifle. And given how much technology is used in traditional sports today, it’s hard to argue that this makes Esports any less legitimate.
A Legitimate Sport
A common argument against Esports being considered a sport is the lack of physical activity. Unlike athletes running races, most Esports players sit in chairs and only use their hands. However, Chess, which is widely recognized as a sport, also doesn’t require intense physical exertion. As Esports continues to grow, the fitness level needed to compete at the highest level will likely increase. This is similar to how football evolved from casual matches between factory workers to a highly competitive sport. Just like traditional sports, Esports athletes will need to be both mentally and physically fit to excel.
From Basement Streams to Stadium Crowds
Esports has grown from small venues to sold-out stadiums, earning recognition as a legitimate sport. Fans celebrate players for their skill, precision, and daring moves, just like traditional athletes. Esports athletes now earn prize money and salaries that surpass those in classic sports, with no sign of slowing down.
A Lot to Learn Between Traditional Sports and Esports
In traditional sports, trainers are realizing that success isn’t just about physical strength. It also relies on mental and cognitive abilities. More training programs are now focusing on skills like quick thinking and sharp reactions, which have long been key in Esports. Meanwhile, Esports players are learning the importance of keeping their bodies healthy. This is because fast-paced gameplay demands both mental clarity and physical well-being.
Countries Recognizing Esports as a Sport
Esports is officially recognized as a sport in several countries, starting with Korea. Today, countries like the US, Finland, Nepal, Denmark, Italy, Russia, China, South Africa, Germany, and Ukraine have followed suit. Esports may even make its way into the Olympics soon.
How Esports Teams Earn Revenue
Esports teams don’t just rely on tournament winnings. They find various ways to generate income in the growing Esports industry.
1. Tournament Prizes
Winning tournaments is a major way to earn money in Esports, with millions of dollars in prizes available each year. However, it’s not a consistent income, as teams don’t always win or qualify. While winnings can be reliable for amateurs and semi-pros, top-level teams need more to stay sustainable. Winning every competition is impossible, and to succeed, you need the best players. These are often reluctant to join lesser-known teams. Even the best teams know that tournament prizes alone can’t support an organization long-term. Therefore, they seek other revenue sources.
2. Team Revenue Through Sponsorships
As professional gaming gains more viewers, teams no longer rely solely on tournament prizes. Sponsorships have become a key revenue source. Brands are recognizing the broad audience potential in Esports.
Many top sponsors in Esports are hardware and electronics companies. But, brands like Coca-Cola and G-Fuel also support teams and tournaments. According to Newzoo, sponsorships are expected to make up half of Esports revenue by 2021.
3. Streaming
Esports teams invest in more than just professional players—they also sign popular streamers. While streamers may not directly impact the team’s performance, they play a big role in reaching large audiences. The top streamers attract millions of viewers, making it easier to market products to a loyal fan base. In this way, streamers act as ambassadors for both the team and its sponsors.
4. Merch
Merchandise can be a reliable income source for popular Esports teams. Top organizations like Cloud9 and FaZe Clan have turned their brands into household names. This allows them to sell products to their dedicated fan base. If you’re building an Esports team, don’t rely on just one revenue stream—look for multiple ways to generate income.
As these opportunities grow, Esports athletes can create a more secure future. And with the industry’s growth, more income avenues will likely continue to emerge.
