Esports Betting Guide: How to Bet on Esports in 2025

Esports betting offers fans a new and exciting way to engage with their favorite sports. So, it’s no surprise that it is one of the fastest-growing trends in online gambling. The industry is more structured in 2025, thanks to esports software solutions. We now have dedicated platforms, live odds, and betting markets that rival traditional sports betting.

From League of Legends to Valorant, major tournaments now attract millions of viewers and bettors. This guide explains how esports betting works, the types of bets you can place, and how to bet responsibly. You’ll also discover the most popular games, how to read odds, and what strategies can help improve your chances.

• Esports Betting in 2025 has become a fast-growing industry, offering structured markets, in-play betting features, and a wide range of supported games like League of Legends, Rocket League, Valorant, and Counter Strike.
• Understanding how esports betting works, including odds setting, bet types, and live wagering, is key to making smarter decisions and avoiding common mistakes.
• Legal and responsible betting is gaining ground globally, with increasing regulation, age restrictions, and tools to prevent underage gambling and match-fixing.
• Smart betting strategies and tools, such as odds comparison sites, statistical databases, and community tips, help players bet more confidently and improve long-term outcomes.

What Is Esports Betting?

Esports betting involves placing real-money wagers on competitive video game matches. Just like traditional sports betting, you can bet on who wins, the final score, or specific outcomes like map victories or player stats.

The key difference lies in the setting, as esports events are held in virtual arenas. Games like League of Legends, Dota 2, and Counter-Strike draw millions of viewers and bettors. What makes esports betting so appealing is its fast-paced and dynamic nature. Game updates, changing team strategies, and shifting metas all affect the outcome.

For fans familiar with a particular game, this can offer a strategic edge. Many platforms now use advanced features based on sports betting software to manage odds and real-time data. Esports betting is growing fast by blending digital entertainment with gambling in a way that appeals to both gamers and bettors.

How Esports Betting Works

Esports betting follows a similar structure to traditional sports betting. You pick an event, choose your market, place your wager, and wait for the result. However, all of this takes place around competitive video games, such as League of Legends or Counter-Strike.

Bookmakers use stats, team form, recent performances, and even game patches to set the odds. These odds reflect the probability of each potential outcome. For example, favourites have lower payouts, while underdogs offer higher rewards. Odds can shift before the match starts, depending on betting volume or breaking news like roster changes.

It is easy to place bets. You register on a betting platform, browse available esports matches, pick a market like “match winner” or “map total rounds,” and enter your stake. Many sites now offer live betting, where odds update in real time as the game progresses. iGaming software development makes esports betting possible by powering odds feeds, interfaces, and user transactions.

The Benefits of Esports Betting

Electronic sports betting has become a popular choice for both casual gamers and experienced punters. Its fast-paced nature, wide variety of games, and digital accessibility make it an exciting alternative to traditional sports betting. Below are some of its key advantages:

• Greater betting flexibility: Esports offers a wide range of betting markets beyond match and tournament winners. You can bet on map scores, total kills, round counts, and specific in-game events. This variety keeps the experience engaging and allows bettors to play to their strengths.
• Fast match results: Unlike many traditional sports, esports matches are typically shorter and more frequent. This means you don’t have to wait long for your bet to settle. It is ideal for bettors who prefer quicker outcomes.
• Stronger edge for informed players: Gamers who follow a particular title closely often understand game updates, team strategies, and meta shifts. This knowledge can translate into smarter bets and better results.
• Global access and low barriers to entry: Many esports betting sites accept small stakes and are accessible in multiple regions. This enables a wider range of users to participate with minimal risk.
• Live betting adds excitement: Watching a live match while placing real-time bets increases the thrill. It can also lead to great opportunities if you’re quick enough to react to changing odds.

Types of Esports Bets

Esports betting offers a wide selection of bet types. This variety allows players to tailor their wagers based on knowledge, risk level, and strategy. Here are the most common options:

• Moneyline (Match Winner): This is the simplest bet. Just choose which team or player will win the match. For example, betting on FaZe Clan to beat G2 in Counter-Strike is a typical moneyline bet.
• Handicap Betting: Also known as spread betting, this levels the playing field by giving one team a virtual advantage or disadvantage. For instance, if a certain team is heavily favoured, the bookmaker might offer a -1.5 map handicap. They would need to win by two maps for your bet to succeed.
• Over/Under (Totals): You bet on whether a specific in-game stat will go over or under a set number. This can be total rounds, maps played, or kills. For example, you could bet on “Over 25.5 total rounds” in a CS2 match.
• Prop Bets (Specials): These focus on specific outcomes within the game. Examples include “first blood,” “most kills,” or “first team to destroy a tower” in League of Legends.
• Outright Winner: This involves betting on the overall winner of a tournament before it begins, not just a single match.

Sports Betting vs Esports Betting

Esports and traditional sports betting share core principles, but they differ in several key areas. Here’s how they compare:

• Game environment: Traditional sports happen in the real world and are influenced by weather, injuries, and player fatigue. Esports matches are played in digital environments where patches, game balance updates, and technical issues can affect outcomes.
• Audience and approach: Sports betting often appeals to older fans, while esports betting attracts a younger, digital-native crowd that’s deeply familiar with the games they follow.
• Betting markets: Both offer moneyline, totals, and handicap bets. However, esports betting includes game-specific markets, such as “first kill,” “map winner,” or “team to complete objectives.” These markets require a deeper understanding of in-game mechanics.
• Speed and volatility: Esports matches are fast and data-driven. So, they require platforms to adjust odds in real time. Bookmakers use advanced tools to manage risk across both formats.
• Crossover in formats: As digital platforms evolve, many providers now support the combination of esports, iGaming, and eGaming content under one roof. Chess esports is a good example. The classic game now thrives in online betting markets.

Popular Esports Games to Bet On

The esports betting world is dominated by a handful of top-tier titles. These games consistently attract large audiences, high-stakes tournaments, and detailed betting markets. Each game brings something unique and offers bettors plenty of ways to get involved.

League of Legends Betting

League of Legends (LoL) is a five-versus-five strategy game where teams battle to destroy the opposing base. It’s one of the most bet-on esports titles, thanks to its structured competitive seasons and global tournaments like the World Championship. Bettors can wager on match winners, total kills, first tower, or map scores.

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive Betting

CS2 (formerly CS:GO) is a classic tactical first-person shooter where two teams (Terrorists and Counter-Terrorists) compete in objective-based rounds. Its straightforward mechanics, intense pacing, and long-standing tournament scene make it a favourite among esports bettors. You can place bets on total rounds, map winners, pistol rounds, and headshot percentages.

Call of Duty Betting

Call of Duty is a high-speed military shooter with multiple game modes like Search & Destroy and Hardpoint. The Call of Duty League (CDL) features regular competitive events that make it perfect for esports betting. Bettors often wager on series outcomes, individual map winners, and objective-based props during matches.

DOTA 2 Betting

DOTA 2 is a deep and complex strategy game where teams of five control heroes to outplay and outlast their opponents. Known for its massive tournaments like The International, DOTA 2 offers markets such as outright winners, first Roshan kill, tower destructions, and total map duration.

Overwatch Betting

Overwatch combines first-person shooting with unique hero abilities in a team-based format. Its fast-paced nature and variety of roles create dynamic betting options. The Overwatch Champions Series (OWCS), which replaced the Overwatch League, offers regular international matches on which bettors can wager on map scores, kill totals, or the team to complete key objectives first.

Valorant Betting

Valorant blends tactical FPS games with hero-based mechanics to create a mix of strategy and reflex-based action. Its structured pro scene and round-by-round format provide many betting opportunities. Popular bets include total rounds, first blood, spike plants, or series winners during tournaments like VCT Masters.

Betting on Esports Teams

Betting on teams is one of the most rewarding ways to engage with esports. However, making accurate predictions takes more than just backing a popular name. Here are factors to consider when analysing an esports team before placing a bet:

• Current form: Always review a team’s recent form. Look at their win/loss record, how they’ve handled similar opponents, and their map-specific strengths or weaknesses.
• Team dynamics: Communication, player synergy, and defined roles can make or break a team’s consistency. A squad with strong chemistry is usually more reliable under pressure.
• Game meta adaptability: Games like DOTA 2 and Valorant often undergo meta shifts. Teams that quickly adjust to new patches, hero changes, or strategies usually gain a competitive edge.
• Head-to-head record: Some teams consistently outperform others due to stylistic or tactical advantages. Always check how the two sides have fared in past matchups.
• Roster changes: Even a single player substitution can impact overall performance. Keep an eye on last-minute lineup changes, new player roles, or coaching adjustments.

Live Betting on Esports

Also known as in-play betting, this form of betting allows you to place wagers during an ongoing esports match. This format adds a layer of excitement, as betting odds shift in real time based on how the game is progressing. It’s fast-paced, unpredictable, and rewards quick decision-making.

During a live match, you can bet on changing outcomes like the winner of the next map, the team to score the next kill, or even specific objectives like tower destruction or spike plants. These dynamic markets open and close quickly, based on the match’s momentum.

To succeed at in-play betting, you need to follow the action closely. Watching the match through a stream or an integrated betting platform helps you react to critical moments, such as early leads, technical pauses, or player mistakes.

Game knowledge is another essential aspect. Understanding how teams usually perform under pressure or how certain maps favour specific playstyles can give you an edge. It’s also useful to monitor how the odds are moving, as sudden changes can signal shifts in team performance or confidence.

Esports Betting Strategies

You shouldn’t depend solely on luck when betting on esports. Gambling in esports requires preparation, research, and discipline. With numerous variables at play, having a strategy can help you make more informed decisions and mitigate unnecessary risks. Here are some effective esports tips:

• Compare odds across platforms: Different betting sites may offer slightly different odds for the same match. Shopping around ensures you get the best value. One cent can make a difference in the long run.
• Focus on value bets: Look for situations where the betting odds underestimate a team’s chances. Backing a strong underdog or avoiding heavy favorites when variance is high can be more profitable than betting on expected winners.
• Use statistical tools and match data: Explore head-to-head history, map win rates, and in-game metrics through stats sites. Data-driven betting helps you spot patterns that aren’t obvious from casual viewing.
• Set a consistent staking plan: Define a fixed percentage of your bankroll per bet (e.g., 1–5%) and stick to it. This minimizes emotional decision-making and helps avoid large losses from unlucky streaks.
• Incorporate live and pre-match betting: Mixing pre-match research with live reactions allows you to hedge bets, capture late value, or adjust when a team’s performance surprises mid-game.
• Learn from each bet: Keep track of your wagers, i.e., what you bet, why, and the outcome. Over time, this record will show which strategies work best and where you need to make improvements.

Evolution of Esports Betting Industry

Esports betting has evolved rapidly over the past decade. In its early days, much of the activity revolved around “skin betting,” where players wagered in-game items with real-world value. Skin gambling operated without regulation and posed serious risks for users.

Today, the esports betting market has become a global, multi-billion-dollar industry. Projections from sources like Statista indicate the sector will generate approximately $2.8 billion in revenue in 2025, with continued growth expected in subsequent years. This growth reflects rising global interest in esports, improved betting infrastructure, and greater regulatory oversight.

Top-tier tournaments, such as League of Legends Worlds, The International, and Valorant Champions, continue to drive massive betting volumes. Licensed platforms now offer structured odds, live wagering features, and advanced data analytics to support smarter wagering.

Key esports betting trends include mobile-first experiences, live-streamed betting integration, and AI-powered risk management. The esports industry is becoming faster, more data-driven, and better equipped to meet the demands of modern bettors.

Esports Betting Laws and Regulations

The legal status of esports betting varies widely across the globe. In some countries, it’s fully legal and regulated under existing gambling laws. In others, it’s restricted, banned, or simply unaddressed due to its digital nature and relatively recent growth.

Regions like the United Kingdom have legalized esports betting under standard online gambling frameworks. Licensed bookmakers can offer esports markets just like traditional sports. Similar systems exist in countries like Australia, parts of the European Union, and some U.S. states, where esports is classified under broader sports betting regulations.

In contrast, other jurisdictions, such as many countries in the Middle East and parts of Asia, still have restrictive gambling laws that limit or prohibit esports betting.

Some countries permit betting on esports through offshore platforms, while others outright prohibit it. This inconsistency has led many operators to geo-block users or apply for multiple regional licenses to stay compliant.

To protect consumers, regulated platforms enforce measures like age verification (usually 18+), responsible gambling tools, and secure payment processing. As the industry matures, more countries are expected to introduce formal rules to monitor esports betting activity and combat issues like underage gambling and match-fixing.

Clear regulation benefits both operators and players by increasing transparency, safety, and long-term market stability.

Risks of Esports Betting and How to Bet Responsibly

While esports betting can be exciting, it also comes with real risks, especially for younger or inexperienced users. One of the biggest concerns is gambling addiction. The fast pace of esports matches, combined with the constant availability of live bets, can lead to impulsive behaviour and repeated losses.

Another major risk is underage gambling. Since many esports fans are teenagers or young adults, there’s a higher chance of minors trying to access betting platforms. This is why legal operators enforce strict age verification systems and promote responsible play.

Match-fixing is also a concern in the esports world. Although most top-level tournaments are clean, lower-tier events have occasionally been compromised. You should stick to licensed sites and betting on reputable leagues to reduce this risk.

To bet responsibly, you should always set personal limits. Decide in advance how much you’re willing to spend and stick to it, whether you win or lose. Never chase losses or try to recover bad bets by wagering more.

If you feel your gambling is becoming a problem, take a break or seek help through support services. Many platforms offer self-exclusion tools, cooling-off periods, and links to professional resources for support. Responsible betting ensures esports remains fun, fair, and sustainable for everyone involved.

Tools and Resources for Esports Bettors

The right tools can help you make smarter betting decisions. Here are some of the most useful resources for esports bettors:

• Odds comparison sites: These platforms allow you to view and compare esports odds from different sports betting sites in one place. Finding the best value can improve your long-term returns.
• Stat tracking platforms: Sites like HLTV and Oracle’s Elixir provide in-depth insights into player stats, team records, and past match data. This helps you analyse patterns and predict outcomes more accurately.
• Match schedules and tournament calendars: By keeping track of upcoming matches and major tournaments, you ensure you never miss key events or place bets without knowing the full context.
• Community forums and tipster groups: Online communities offer predictions, team updates, and strategy discussions. Use these dedicated esports platforms to spot trends, but always do your own research.
• Industry reports and guides: Learn about long-term trends through expert articles on how to invest in esports or explore the top esports companies shaping the space.

Final Thoughts on Esports Betting

Esports betting continues to evolve from a niche hobby into a global industry, attracting millions of fans and bettors. With structured leagues, real-time odds, and countless game-specific markets, it offers a fresh and engaging way to bet. Each title also brings unique opportunities for those willing to learn.

Success in esports betting comes down to strategy, research, and responsible money management. Whether you’re betting on a favourite team or exploring live wagers during intense matches, informed decisions will always yield better results.

As the industry continues to evolve, bettors can expect more tools, improved platforms, and deeper integration with the games themselves. The experience is also safer and more transparent thanks to improved regulations. For businesses interested in building or scaling esports platforms, a trusted software development company can offer a competitive edge.