Esports are a big thing today, and they’ve changed what it means to be a professional gamer. Millions of fans worldwide follow eSports events, which feature high-stakes competitions and thrilling matches.
Esports are popular for a reason. First, eSports are incredibly accessible. Anyone with a computer and an internet connection can play or watch eSports games. Second, there’s a huge variety of games and genres to choose from, so there’s something for everyone. Third, eSports events are often broadcasted live on streaming platforms, so fans can watch and interact with their favorite players and teams in real time.
Esports players are becoming celebrities in their own right, and they can earn a lot of money from their gaming careers. Some of the most popular esports players have millions of followers on social media and make millions of dollars per year from sponsorships and endorsements.
Esports are also a great way to build community. Fans and players share a common passion for gaming, and they can connect with each other through social media, chat rooms, and forums.
The different types of ESports games
ESports games can roughly be categorized into different types based on their gameplay, objectives, and rules. Let’s take a look at some of the most common types:
#1. First-Person Shooters (FPS) 🔫
FPS games are all about requiring quick reflexes, accuracy, and teamwork to outmaneuver opponents. Examples are Counter-Strike, Call of Duty, and Overwatch. Here the players view the game from the perspective of their character and engage in intense shooting battles.
#2. Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) 🎮
These games involve teams of players controlling unique characters with specific abilities and roles. Strategy, coordination, and effective communication are crucial to succeeding in these games. Examples are such as League of Legends, Dota 2, and Mobile Legends.
#3. Fighting Games ⚔️
Street Fighter, Tekken, and Mortal Kombat are examples of fighting games that feature one-on-one or team-based combat. Players select characters with different fighting styles and execute precise moves and combos. Timing, execution, and adaptability are keys to victory.
#4. Sports games ⚽
Games like FIFA, NBA 2K, and Gran Turismo fall into the category of sports games. To win, players must use strategy, physical talents, and have sound knowledge of these games.
#5. Strategy games 🧠
These games demand logical thinking, creativity, and effective decision-making. Games like StarCraft, Age of Empires, and Civilization are common examples. These revolve around planning and managing resources, units, and structures to achieve objectives or defeat opponents.
Now that you know what eSports is and why it’s big. It is time for you to look at some of the greatest titles to test your abilities and strategy. Better still, this list includes games from all the categories listed above, so you’re sure to find one you like. I’ll briefly explain these popular titles and whether they’re right for you.
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, or simply CS:GO, is a legendary competitive first-person shooter. This adrenaline-fueled game matches terrorist teams against counter-terrorists in objective-based fights on expertly planned terrain. Players must excel in precise marksmanship, map awareness, and strategic decision-making.
The game requires mechanical skill and mental acuity, making it entertaining and rewarding for those who put in the time. CS:GO remains a genre-defining classic thanks to its high-stakes competitions and enthusiastic modding community.
CS:GO is merciless and has a high skill ceiling. The game is synonymous with eSports, including some of the most intense and exhilarating competitive matches. The Intel Extreme Masters and ESL Pro League draw huge crowds and provide substantial prize pools to the finest players.
Check it out on Steam.
Diablo III
This is an immersive action RPG that lets players explore Sanctuary’s dark and dangerous depths. Diablo III, developed by Blizzard Entertainment, has captivated millions of players worldwide with its thrilling and addicting gameplay. This vast dark fantasy realm features demonic hordes, legendary wealth, and a complex and evocative plot.
In Diablo III, demonic forces seek to envelop Sanctuary in endless darkness. You’ll fight armies of demonic creatures and ancient horrors in eerily gorgeous surroundings as a hero.
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Diablo III Eternal Collection - PlayStation 4 |
$21.95 |
Buy on Amazon |
Its addicting loot system and cooperative multiplayer mode are noteworthy. Players will want to explore every corner, defeating opponents and finding powerful weapons, armor, and mystical treasures. Its seamless multiplayer enhances fight thrills, whether playing with friends or online.
Final Fantasy XIV Online
Final Fantasy XIV Online is a massive fantasy MMORPG. Developed by Square Enix, this critically acclaimed game lets players go on epic journeys, form alliances, and explore a beautiful world with rich lore and intriguing characters. After all, Final Fantasy XIV Online is a genre leader because of its rich tale, robust gaming mechanics, and active community.
The Warrior of Light protects Eorzea from several threats in Final Fantasy XIV Online. The game features thrilling battles against terrifying creatures, tough dungeons, and exciting raids for a variety of playstyles.
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Final Fantasy XIV Online Starter Edition (PS4) | $39.90 | Buy on Amazon |
Its versatile class system lets players choose from various vocations and create their own playstyle, improving individuality and progression.
The game’s passionate community lets players team up with friends and strangers to defeat powerful enemies or participate in social events, creating unforgettable memories!
Game of Thrones: Tale of Crows
This Apple Arcade game invites players to embark on a captivating narrative adventure set within the beloved Game of Thrones universe.
Developed by Devolver Digital, this unique game puts players in command of the Night’s Watch, tasked with defending the realm from ancient terrors beyond the Wall.
With its atmospheric storytelling, moral choices, and immersive gameplay, Game of Thrones: Tale of Crows offers a fresh perspective on the gripping and intricate world of Westeros, allowing players to shape the fate of the Night’s Watch and experience the challenges and sacrifices that come with safeguarding the realm. So if you do not want to take on the headache of an extra console or gaming system, why not just pick up your iOS device and try it out?
Check it out on the Mac App Store.
Sid Meier’s Civilization VI
Sid Meier’s Civilization VI is a strategic masterpiece that invites players to build and guide their own civilization throughout the ages. This acclaimed turn-based strategy game from Firaxis Games offers a rich and immersive experience where players can influence the course of history.
From establishing cities and expanding borders to researching technologies and engaging in diplomacy or warfare, Civilization VI provides a vast and engaging sandbox for players to explore and conquer. With its intricate gameplay mechanics, stunning visuals, and the thrill of building an empire from scratch, Civilization VI is a must-play title for strategy enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
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Sid Meier's Civilization VI - PlayStation 4 | 1,877 Reviews |
$19.97 |
Buy on Amazon |
Total War: WARHAMMER III
Total War: WARHAMMER III unleashes an epic clash of fantasy factions in a visually stunning and strategically immersive war-torn world. Developed by Creative Assembly, this turn-based strategy game combines the best elements of the Total War series with the rich lore and iconic characters from the Warhammer Fantasy Battles universe.
Players command mighty armies, delve into dark and treacherous lands, and engage in epic battles filled with magical spells, monstrous creatures, and legendary heroes. With its deep gameplay mechanics, breathtaking visuals, and the excitement of commanding powerful forces in a fantastical setting, Total War: WARHAMMER III offers an unparalleled strategy experience that will captivate both fans of the franchise and newcomers alike.
Check it out on Steam.
World of Warcraft
World of Warcraft (WoW) is another MMORPG that has defined the genre for over a decade. Developed by Blizzard Entertainment, this immersive online world transports players to the fantastical realm of Azeroth, where they can embark on epic quests, engage in challenging raids, and forge alliances with players from around the globe.
With its vast and ever-expanding universe, deep lore, and diverse array of playable races and classes, WoW offers a captivating experience that caters to a wide range of playstyles. Whether delving into rich storylines, engaging in thrilling PvP battles, or exploring breathtaking landscapes, World of Warcraft continues to be a benchmark for immersive online gaming, ensuring endless adventures for both new and seasoned adventurers alike.
You can download the game from its official website.
League of Legends
League of Legends (LoL) is another Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) game that has revolutionized the world of competitive gaming. This frantic team-based game, created by Riot Games, pits players against one another in combat that is strategic and intense. With its vast roster of diverse champions, intricate gameplay mechanics, and thriving eSports scene, League of Legends has become a global phenomenon.
Players can test their skills, coordination, and decision-making abilities as they work together to destroy the enemy nexus. From epic comebacks to nail-biting team fights, LoL offers an adrenaline-pumping experience that continues to captivate millions of players worldwide, solidifying its status as one of the most influential and enduring titles in the realm of competitive gaming.
The game can be downloaded from the official website.
STAR WARS Knights of the Old Republic II
This Star Wars adventure takes players on a dark and immersive journey through the Star Wars universe. Developed by Obsidian Entertainment, this critically acclaimed role-playing game invites players to navigate the moral complexities of the Force as they shape their destiny.
With its deep storytelling, complex characters, and impactful player choices, The Sith Lords offers a thought-provoking narrative that delves into the depths of the Star Wars mythos. Whether embracing the light or succumbing to the allure of the dark side, players will find themselves captivated by the intricate web of power, betrayal, and redemption that unfolds in this gripping Star Wars adventure.
Check it out on Steam.
Rocket League
Rocket League is a high-octane blend of soccer and vehicular mayhem that delivers an electrifying gaming experience. Developed by Psyonix, this fast-paced sports game pits players in rocket-powered cars as they compete in exhilarating matches. With its intuitive controls, physics-based gameplay, and addictive multiplayer action, Rocket League offers endless moments of excitement and competition.
Whether performing acrobatic aerial maneuvers, executing precise shots, or making epic saves, players will find themselves immersed in a thrilling world where skill and teamwork are the keys to victory.
With its accessible yet deeply rewarding gameplay, Rocket League has become a beloved eSports title and a true testament to the joy of combining fast cars and a giant soccer ball.
Check it out on the Epic Games Store.
Tekken 8
Bandai Namco Entertainment’s latest entry in the fighting game series raises the bar for intense martial arts combat. With its fluid gameplay, stunning graphics, and expanded roster of diverse fighters, Tekken 8 promises a thrilling experience for both casual players and competitive enthusiasts.
From mastering complex combos to unleashing devastating special moves, players can engage in heart-pounding battles across dynamic stages. With profound lore and engaging story mode, Tekken 8 offers a satisfying blend of nostalgia and innovation, solidifying its position as a must-play title for fighting game aficionados. Get ready to step into the arena and prove your fighting prowess in the next evolution of the Tekken franchise.
Check it out on Steam.
VALORANT
This tactical first-person shooter from Riot Games redefines competitive gaming with its blend of precise gunplay and strategic team-based gameplay. In this 5v5 multiplayer experience, players select unique agents, each equipped with distinct abilities, and engage in intense, high-stakes matches. With its responsive controls, precise aiming mechanics, and emphasis on teamwork and communication, VALORANT offers an exhilarating and skill-based gaming experience.
Whether executing well-coordinated tactics, outsmarting opponents with clever abilities, or clutching crucial rounds, players will find themselves immersed in a world of intense gunfights and strategic decision-making. With a thriving eSports scene and regular updates, VALORANT continues to captivate players worldwide, solidifying its status as a premier title in the competitive FPS genre.
Check it out on the Epic Games Store.
DOTA 2
DOTA 2 is a decade-old, highly acclaimed multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) developed by Valve Corporation and stands as a pinnacle of competitive gaming. In this strategic and fast-paced title, players form teams of heroes and battle it out in intense 5v5 matches to destroy the enemy’s ancient. With its deep gameplay mechanics, a vast roster of heroes with unique abilities, and an ever-evolving meta, DOTA 2 offers endless possibilities for strategic decision-making and teamwork.
From epic team fights to meticulously planned strategies, players must master a complex web of tactics, positioning, and resource management to emerge victorious. With its massive international tournaments, enormous prize pools, and passionate community, DOTA 2 continues to push the boundaries of eSports, captivating players worldwide and cementing its status as a true titan in the world of competitive gaming.
Check it out on Steam.
NBA 2K23
The latest installment in the acclaimed basketball simulation franchise from 2K Sports delivers an immersive and authentic NBA experience. With its stunning graphics, realistic gameplay mechanics, and attention to detail, NBA 2K23 captures the excitement and intensity of the sport like never before.
From the intricacies of dribbling and shooting to the strategic nuances of team play, players can take control of their favorite NBA teams and players, competing in thrilling matches and challenging opponents on the court. With its robust career mode, dynamic online multiplayer, and wealth of customization options, NBA 2K23 offers basketball fans a comprehensive and engaging gaming experience that showcases the passion and skill of the sport. Lace up your virtual sneakers and get ready to hit the hardwood in this ultimate basketball simulation.
Check it out on Steam.
Summing up
When it comes to competitive gaming, there are plenty of niches to dive into headfirst. Whether you’re a fan of first-person shooters like Valorant, or want to reach the virtual heights set by real-world stalwarts like Michael Jordan in NBA 2K23, there’s always something for you to sink your teeth into. So which one will it be for you?
If you’re looking for games that are slightly slower in pacing and provide compelling storylines, check out the best story-driven games you can play today!
