Ever wondered what the buzz around esports is all about? Well, it’s more than just fun and games – it’s a phenomenon that’s taking the world by storm. I’m here to guide you through the exciting world of esports and the games that rule this digital realm.
What Type of Games are Played in Esports
Continuing our exploration into the world of esports, let’s get into the details that define this digital domain. Esports, as you’ve read, isn’t simply about entertainment. It’s a rapidly evolving phenomenon, enthralling audiences worldwide with its dynamic mix of skill, strategy, and thrill.
- MOBA: Short for Multiplayer Online Battle Arena, MOBA games are a form of online games, typically involving teams of players who work toward a common goal. An excellent example of a MOBA game is “League of Legends.
- FPS: First-Person Shooter games provide the player with a first-person point of view as if they’re seeing through the eyes of the game character. A popular example is “Counter-Strike: Global Offensive”.
- RTS: Real-time strategy games require the player to make quick decisions and implement strategies in real-time. StarCraft II is a well-known example.
Thus, the esports ecosystem features a diverse array of games. It’s an exciting realm, where players from various backgrounds and skill-sets compete against each other. But make no mistake: esports isn’t just about gameplay. It’s a showcase of strategy, skills, and in-depth knowledge of game mechanics.
Types of Games in Esports
In esports, there’s a wealth of variety concerning the games played. We categorize them mainly into four types: MOBA, FPS, RTS, and Fighting games. Let’s take a deeper dive into each of these categories.
Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) Games
MOBA games, short for Multiplayer Online Battle Arena, define a prominent genre in esports. Teams compete against each other, each player controlling a single character. Examples include Dota 2 and League of Legends, which host major tournaments with multi-million dollar prize pools. Precision, strategy, and teamwork, mark the core of this genre, tickling the gaming senses of players and spectators alike.
First-person Shooter (FPS) Games
FPS, or First-Person Shooter games, bring an adrenaline surge, putting players in the character’s shoes. Great examples in esports include Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and Valorant. High-paced gameplay, precision aiming, and split-second decision-making define this genre. It’s not just about shooting; strategy forms a crucial component, making every match an enthralling encounter.
Real-time Strategy (RTS) Games
RTS games, Real-Time Strategy, offer a different flavor in esports. Players control entire armies or factions, often needing to manage resources and plan tactics on the fly. Renowned examples include Starcraft II and Age of Empires. Controlling multiple units simultaneously provides an intricate gaming experience that combines strategic depth with intense action.
Fighting Games
Lastly, fighting games take a more mano-a-mano approach. Players control a character and compete against others in close combat. Examples like Street Fighter and Tekken are popular in esports, hosting international tournaments. Precision, timing, and mastering mechanics are paramount, making each battle a electrifying encounter, engaging even for those who are new to esports.
Prominent Games in Each Category
MOBA Games: Dota 2 and League of Legends
Under the MOBA category, Dota 2, and League of Legends lead, showcasing the genre’s emphasis on precision, strategy, and teamwork. Dota 2, developed by Valve Corporation, paves the way for its unique gameplay mechanics and high stakes tournaments like The International, boasting a prize pool of $34.33 million in 2019. League of Legends (LoL), Riot Games’ creation, rivals it by holding the popular World Championship event and showing a globally diversified player base. This game spans continents, with over 120 million active players worldwide, demonstrating the global embrace of MOBA games.
FPS Games: Counter-Strike and Overwatch
Entering the First-Person Shooter (FPS) scene, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) and Overwatch command attention. Valve’s CS:GO lures players with its tactical gameplay and high-paced action, gaining acclaim for its skill-based matchmaking and competitive scene. Overwatch, developed by Blizzard Entertainment, veers slightly from the norm by merging FPS gameplay with MOBA elements. Its character-based gameplay and colorful aesthetics made it a hit, pulling in over $1 billion in revenue by the end of its first year of release.