Electronic sports, popularly known by its short form (esports), is a consolidation of online gaming competitions that gained traction at the beginning of the 21st century. It has since grown into organized leagues similar to traditional sports competitions.
With forecasts projecting the global esports betting market revenue to rise to US$ 2.8 billion in 2025, it is not strange that many punters are flocking to this new cash cow. The growth of the streaming industry and internet availability enable fans and gamers to access the necessary platforms and tools to bet on esports. So, how can you venture into it?
NXTbetsis a resourceful platform where you can get reliable betting insights and strategies, including major esports tournaments. We will provide comprehensive guides and matchup previews to help you enjoy esports betting online. Stay tuned!
What is Esports Betting?
Before we talk about esports betting, it is imperative that we define what esports entails. How else will you know what you’re getting yourself into?
Esports is an organized, competitive video gaming where professional teams and players face off in games like Counter-Strike, League of Legends, Dota 2, Fortnite, and many others. It entails gamers playing matches in leagues and tournaments that feature live audiences and millions more watching online. Safe to say that it is a global sport.
The competition’s worldwide popularity has created a soaring international esports betting industry. This means that you can place bets on the outcome of these video game matches or events from anywhere in the world. All you need to do is ensure that it’s legal where you are.
If you are a seasoned sports betting punter, the concept in esports betting is similar – you simply predict a result (for instance, which player/team will win a match) and stake on that prediction through any licensed esports sportsbook.
Competitive Structure
Esports competitions have a structured format that is akin to traditional sports – we are referring to tournaments (round-robin group stages and elimination brackets), leagues (regular season and playoffs), and ranking systems. Individual players or teams get to battle it out for prestige, prize money, and sponsorship deals.
Match Formats
The match structures differ from game to game. For example, a standard CS:GO match is played over 30 rounds on a map (2 halves, each with 15 rounds).
On the other hand, a League of Legends match is a single game on a map, mostly played as part of a series.
Is Esports Betting Legal in My Country?
Nobody ever wants to be on the wrong side of the law. The first question a new bettor will ask is, “Is esports betting legal where I live?” This is a question whose answer varies depending on which part of the world you live in.
We can say that esports betting laws are generally tied to the sports betting laws in each country or state. If online sports betting is legal and regulated where you are, esports is certainly covered as one of the betting markets.
However, some regions may have specific restrictions (for instance, not allowing bets on matches with underage players, or treating esports differently from traditional sports). Let’s break down the legality of esports betting in key regions.
Note:Always remember to use legal esports betting sites that are licensed in your jurisdiction – this ensures that consumer protection rights and a fair betting environment are upheld.
Esports Betting Legal Status by Country
Country
Legal Status
Betting Age
Taxation on Winnings
Regulating Authority
United States
Legal, following the Supreme Court’s decision in Murphy v. National Collegiate Athletic Association in 2018. However, it varies by state. For instance, esports is legal in Nevada, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania but illegal in Hawaii and Utah.
21
Yes
State Gaming Commissions
United Kingdom
Legal and Regulated
18
No
UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)
Germany
Legal under strict regulations per the German Interstate Treaty on Gambling (ISTG) or Glücksspielstaatsvertrag (GlüStV 2021)
18
No. However, there is a 5.3% stake tax charged on every euro wagered
Legal only for pre-match and regulated under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA)
18
No
State-based authorities (e.g., NT Racing Commission). However, the Australian Communications and Media Authority oversees the enforcement of the IGA
Philippines
Legal under licensed platforms
21
No
Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR)
India
No specific law, although the legality may vary from state to state
18
Yes
No central authority; often offshore licenses
Brazil
Legal
18
Yes (pending regulation)
Ministry of Finance
Canada
Legal, but also varies by province
18 or 19
No
Provincial regulators (e.g., the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario)
South Africa
Legal and regulated
18
No
National Gambling Board
Types of Esports Bets You Can Place
There is a wide range of esports betting markets you can take advantage of – from “who will win” to specific in-game outcomes like “first team to get a kill.” You must understand all these types of bets if you want to get the most out of esports betting. Here are the most common esports bets you should know about:
Match winner
This is the most straightforward bet where you pick which team or player will win the match. In a head-to-head matchup, you just choose Team A or Team B to win.
It is also called a moneyline bet (especially in the American odds context). For instance, if Fnatic is playing G2 in CS:GO, a match winner bet on Fnatic means you win if Fnatic wins the match (series).
Map winner
In games that are played in a series (multiple maps or rounds), you can bet on individual maps. For example, in a best-of-3 CS:GO match, you could bet on who wins Map 1, or Map 2, and so on. This is useful if you think a team constantly starts strong on the first map or has a known map advantage.
First blood
This is where you choose which team will get the first kill in the game (common in MOBAs like Dota 2/LoL, or even FPS like Valorant). It is usually one of the first events to occur, making it an exciting betting opportunity.
Over/Under
If you are a regular bettor, this market is not new to you. It is one of the few betting markets that cut across most (if not all) of the sports that allow betting. How does it work? The bookmaker/sportsbooks set a line and you bet on whether the final outcome will be over or under that value. Here are some examples:
Total maps played in a match (e.g., over 2.5 maps means the game goes to all 3 maps in a bo3)
Total rounds in a CS:GO map (e.g., over 26.5 rounds means the map will be closely contested)
Total kills in a game
Total time of a match (for games like LoL/Dota which have game clocks)
Handicap
This market evens the odds between a favorite and an underdog. For example, in a best-of-5 League of Legends match, the favorite might have a -1.5 map handicap. If you bet on them at -1.5, they must win 3-0 or 3-1 (at least 2 maps more than the opponent) for your bet to win.
Live/In-play
These are the bets you place while the match is ongoing. All the bet types we’ve discussed prior to this can be offered in-play. The catch is that the odds are constantly changing to reflect the players’ or teams’ live performances.
Outrights
You can bet on the outcome of an entire tournament or league. This means you bet on outcomes such as who will win The International in Dota 2 or the League of Legends World Championship.
Sometimes, sportsbooks also offer you an opportunity to bet on things like “to reach the final” or “to win their group.”
Micro bets
In micro-betting, you stake on very short-term outcomes that occur within the next few minutes of play. For example: “Which team will win the next round?” in CS:GO, or “Will there be a kill in the next 1 minute?” in a MOBA, or “Next kill by Team A or Team B?”
It is essentially prop bets that are offered live and settled almost immediately. This is the kind of market you come across in betting platforms that want to give fans fast action and maximum adrenaline.
How Esports Betting Odds Work
Odds are the cornerstone of betting – they tell you how much you stand to win and how likely the outcome is (according to the bookmaker/sportsbook). Different regions display odds in different formats. The three main formats are decimal odds, fractional odds, and American odds.
How do esports odds work? Let’s go through the different odds formats:
Decimal Odds
Decimal odds are popular in Europe, Canada, Australia, Africa, and most regions of the world. The number represents the total payout for a 1-unit stake. For instance, odds of 2.50 mean if you bet 1 (₹1, $1, €1, etc.), you get 2.50 back total if you win (which is 1.50 profit plus your original 1 included). A winning bet at 2.50 yields 2.5 times your stake.
An odd of 1.50 is a favorite (because you’d win only 0.5 profit per 1 unit staked), whereas 10.0 would be an underdog (10x return). Implied probability is easily calculated as 1 / decimal odds. For example, 2.00 odds = 50% implied chance, 1.25 odds = 80% chance, 3.00 odds = 33.3% chance.
Fractional Odds
This is the traditional format in the UK and Ireland (also used in horse racing globally). Fractions quote the profit relative to the stake. For example, odds of 5/1 (“five-to-one”) mean you win 5 units profit for every 1 unit you stake (plus you get your stake back). So, a £10 bet at 5/1 yields a £60 return (£50 profit and £10 stake). A favorite might be 1/2 (“one-to-two” or “2 to 1 on”) – that means for every 2 you stake, you profit 1 (a £20 bet yields £10 profit = £30 return).
American Odds
Its popularity is in the name – it’s primarily used in the United States. American odds are expressed as either a positive or negative number, with a + or -. Positive odds (+200) indicate how much profit you’d make on a $100 stake. Negative odds (-200) indicate how much you need to stake to profit $100.
Best Esports Games to Bet
Esports is not one game – it is a combination of numerous games, each with its own competitive scene and fan following. The best esports games to bet on can depend on where you live. Let’s look at some of the most popular games across different regions:
North America: Call of Duty, CS:GO, NBA 2K
North America’s esports betting market is growing fast, even though it still lags a bit behind Europe/Asia in sheer volume (partly due to U.S. legal rollout). The most popular games to bet on in NA include:
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) / CS2: CS:GO has had a massive player and viewer base in NA (smaller than Europe). Many NA punters love CS:GO Majors, and events like ESL Pro League and Blast Premier. The USA has a history in CS (though fewer top teams recently), but events held in NA (like in Dallas or IEM events) draw local betting attention.
Call of Duty: The Call of Duty League (CDL) is very North America-centric (with most teams in US/Canada cities). Call of Duty esports odds are quite popular in NA, primarily because CoD is a culturally big game here.
NBA2K: NBA 2K League has mostly U.S. teams and there are bets available on some sportsbooks, but the volume is low.
Europe: CS:GO, Dota 2, FIFA
Europe is an esports betting powerhouse – many leading teams and tournaments are Europe-based, and their betting culture is well-established. The most popular games are:
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO / CS2): Europe (including CIS countries) is the epicenter of CS. This is attributed to the enormous player base, legendary teams (from Sweden, Denmark, France, Russia, and Ukraine), and many tournaments in the EU time zone. CSGO betting odds in Europe are often very competitive due to high volume.
Dota 2: Some of the best Dota teams have been European (Team Secret and OG). The Dota 2 International betting volume is also huge in Europe, particularly if EU/CIS teams are in contention. Throughout the year, Dota Majors and regional leagues in Europe see a lot of action.
FIFA eSports: Europeans love football (soccer), so it’s no surprise that FIFA esports betting has a niche. Events like the FIFAe World Cup or national tournaments (ePremier League and Virtual Bundesliga) garner bets from fans of those clubs or countries. Some bookmakers/sportsbooks sponsor FIFA esports leagues (for instance, in the UK, betting companies have partnered with ePremier League).
South America: CS:GO, League of Legends
The esports betting culture in this region is growing with improving internet access and a young population. Here are the most popular games:
CS:GO: South America, especially Brazil and Argentina, loves CS:GO. Brazil has produced world champion teams (SK/Luminosity in 2016), and Argentine/Latin teams are competitive.
League of Legends: The CBLOL (Brazilian LoL league) and the LLA (Latin American League) attract a lot of viewership. Brazil’s CBLOL, in particular, has a huge fandom, and now with regulated betting incoming in Brazil, CBLOL betting may explode.
Southeast Asia: Mobile Legends, Dota 2, LoL
Southeast Asia (SEA) has a distinct esports culture. The top games to bet on include:
Mobile Legends: This is arguably the most popular esports in SEA. It’s a mobile MOBA similar to LoL, and leagues like MPL (Mobile Legends Professional League) run in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
Dota 2: In countries like the Philippines and Malaysia, Dota 2 is like a religion. Dota 2 betting is very popular, especially on Majors and The International. SEA hosts its own qualifiers and has rabid fans.
League of Legends: Interestingly, LoL is not as huge in some SEA parts because Garena once operated separate servers, and MLBB kind of stole the limelight. But regions like Vietnam (VCS) are LoL-crazy (Vietnam is often grouped with SEA). Vietnamese teams are very competitive internationally and fans bet on Worlds/MSI fervently.
China/Korea: LoL, Starcraft II
While betting in these countries is a bit legally restricted (China outlaws gambling, whereas Korea has strict gambling laws for its citizens), we include them for completeness of popularity. Many outside bettors love Chinese/Korean esports matches. The most common games include:
League of Legends (Korea & China): This is the top esports game in both countries. The LCK (Korean league) and LPL (Chinese league) are the most competitive in the world, and their matches draw massive international betting.
StarCraft II (Korea): StarCraft is Korea’s national esports historically. While SC2 has shrunk, GSL (Global StarCraft League) in Korea is still a benchmark. Internationally, there are many SC2 bettors (especially in Europe) who bet on Korean SC2 matches.
India: Valorant, BGMI, Free Fire
The most popular games in India are:
Valorant: India has teams and a league in this game. The country has very passionate players. That is why Riot Games has probably invested in the Southeast Asia Valorant.
BGMI: India’s biggest esports was PUBG Mobile, which rebranded as BGMI after a ban, but was later unbanned in 2023. Tournaments like BGIS (Battlegrounds India Series) have a massive viewership.
Free Fire: Free Fire was banned, but when it was active it was very popular. If it comes back (a localized version is rumored), it could have a big competitive scene again.
Where to Bet on Esports Around the World
With esports being embraced by millions of people globally, it is not surprising that many online sportsbooks offer esports markets. The best sportsbooks vary depending on your choice and your location – some have dominated the U.S, while others have become popular in Europe.
Here is a list of where to bet on esports worldwide:
United States
DraftKings:DraftKings runs a sportsbook in many states. They offer esports odds on big events like CS:GO Majors and LoL Worlds. It is a very user-friendly esports betting app with lots of promotions.
FanDuel:FanDuel has a simple interface and sometimes features esports lines.
United Kingdom & Europe
Bet365: Bet365 is a UK-based bookmaker that is viewed as one of the best sites to bet on esports globally. They have a dedicated esports section with numerous games (CS:GO, LoL, Dota, Valorant, and much more).
888sport: This is another UK/Europe-based sportsbook with a good reputation. They are well known for their lucrative welcome bonuses.
Pinnacle
Pinnacle is available in many countries other than the UK and the US. It is famous for low-margin odds and high limits, particularly for esports. They were one of the first major bookmakers to embrace esports back in 2010. If you’re in Canada, parts of Europe, Latin America, or Asia where Pinnacle operates (they have a Curacao license and others), it’s fantastic for getting the best odds.
Stake
Stake.com is a crypto-only sportsbook that offers a huge range of esports with instant transactions via Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies. Stake sponsors esports personalities and teams (recently partnered with Evil Geniuses). For regions where traditional betting isn’t available, Stake is an option.
BC.Game
This is another crypto casino-book that has expanded into sports/esports. It’s popular in parts of Asia and Africa where users might prefer crypto.
Bonuses and Offers for Global Esports Bettors
The best way to attract new customers and reward loyal ones is through bonuses. These bonuses and offers vary from country to country or state to state. Here is a table listing popular welcome bonuses based on regions:
Region
Bonuses
UK
Bet £10 get £30
EU (non-UK)
100% deposit match
US
Bet $5, get $200
LATAM
Bet Credits up to R$200
Southeast Asia
10% bonus on every deposit
Esports Betting Strategies for Global Players
The global esports betting scene is so dynamic and very competitive. As a result, you need more than mere luck to succeed. A strong strategy can help you make more informed bets with higher chances of success. Here are practical tips to consider:
Research Tips for Regional Leagues
Every regional league has its requirements. Treating all of them the same can be detrimental, especially because you will likely miss key details. For instance, the LCK of South Korea has teams with slower gameplay and more focus on control. The teams also tend to avoid unnecessary risks. This may require your strategy to consider late-game rivalries, consistent executions, and long games.
On the other hand, the LEC of Europe tends to be more aggressive, with frequent upsets and early-game action. The teams are more predictable, and the underdogs tend to win more.
In the MPL (Mobile Legends Professional League in Southeast Asia), hero familiarity and team coordination determine the performance. Most teams are drafted depending on comfort and not global trends alone. The metas also shift fast, which requires adequate attention.
To find your way around these variations, research how teams perform in different match formats, including BO1, BO3, and BO5. Evaluate how they adapt to patch changes or losses. Moreover, watch VODs and recent matches and follow local analysts and casters to understand forms, new developments, and trends.
Understand How to Analyze Patch Notes
Another crucial tip is knowing how to analyze the patch notes. Since a single update can make or destroy a team’s strategy, ignoring the patch notes would mean operating from a blind spot. To understand patch notes for the specific game you are wagering on, study and evaluate the following:
Nerfs and buffs to popular champions, heroes, weapons, or agents.
Changes to essential systems like map balance, economy, experience, or gold.
Abilities or items that were removed or reworked.
After studying these, assess how they affect the team. For instance, a team that relies more on now-nerfed strategy will likely struggle, while one that adapts quickly to new metas may be advantaged, especially in the early stages.
You should also watch early matches on new patches and pro scrims to get insights on what to expect. Observe the changes in strategies and place your bet early enough before the bookmakers adjust their odds based on the new meta.
Avoid Tilt and Manage Time Zones
If you are considering betting across the globe, you must manage your feelings and schedule. A tilt is what happens when emotions, such as frustrations, cloud your judgment. This can lead to making bets without research, risking too much stake on weak selections, and chasing your losses. However, remember that clear mental focus and adequate rest are vital for success in esports betting.
The differences in time zones can also add more pressure. For instance, whereas CDL games mostly happen late at night, LCK matches may start as early as dawn. To manage both of these aspects:
Establish a comprehensive schedule that allows time for your responsibilities.
Select a few regions instead of chasing every game.
Set clear betting limits for both your stake and betting time before the event.
Do not bet when you are too emotional or tired. Take a break when necessary and re-strategize.
Track your wins and losses.
Use Regional Stat Platforms
Finally, utilize reliable stats to make informed bets. It is best to understand role performance, hero pool data, and team trends to stand out as an esports bettor. You must also cross-check player and team performance before placing your bet. To be able to do this, use these stat platforms to your advantage:
HLTV.org is very helpful for CS: GO. Here, you can see players’ recent form, stats on head-to-head matchups, player K/D ratios, map win rates, and upcoming events. You can also track player changes, which likely influence results.
Liquipedia allows you to access tournament structures for major esports titles like Valorant, Dota 2, and LoL. You can also see match history and bracket info on this platform.
OP.GGis the go-to for League of Legends. It shows you the champion win rates, performance trends, and even solo queue stats. Some regions have specific versions that are more detailed.
Dotabuff is also suitable for tracking Dota 2 matches, skill builds, items, and heroes. It is particularly best if you want to see how meta changes influence pick and win rates across patches.
Responsible Gambling and Risk Awareness
Esports betting should be fun and entertaining, but like any form of gambling, it has risks.
However, here are some of the ways you can mitigate the risks of irresponsible gambling:
Before you start betting, decide how much money (and time) you’re willing to spend and stick to it.
If you find yourself betting recklessly, lying about or hiding your betting history, chasing losses desperately, or if betting is causing stress and financial strain, be wary of these warning signs.
If you think things are getting out of hand, use the self-exclusion tools that allow you to block yourself from the platform for a set period or indefinitely.
Avoid unlicensed or shady bookmakers/sportsbooks that may not pay out winnings or have rigged systems.
If you ever feel your gambling is out of control, seek help. There are confidential resources worldwide:
UK: BeGambleAware (begambleaware.org) and GamCare offer chat, phone, and counseling for problem gambling. There’s also a UK helpline 0808 8020 133.
USA: The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) has a hotline at 1-800-522-4700 and chat at ncpgambling.org/chat.
Canada: The Canada Safety Council and provincial helplines (e.g., Ontario 1-866-531-2600).
Australia: Call 1800 858 858 or visit Gambling Help Online.
South Africa: The Responsible Gambling Foundation has a hotline 0800 006 008.
Virtually all major betting sites have mobile-friendly websites or dedicated mobile apps for Android and iOS. You can register, deposit, place bets, and withdraw all from your smartphone or tablet.
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Ultimate Guide to Esports Betting Worldwide (2025)
Table of Contents
Electronic sports, popularly known by its short form (esports), is a consolidation of online gaming competitions that gained traction at the beginning of the 21st century. It has since grown into organized leagues similar to traditional sports competitions.
With forecasts projecting the global esports betting market revenue to rise to US$ 2.8 billion in 2025, it is not strange that many punters are flocking to this new cash cow. The growth of the streaming industry and internet availability enable fans and gamers to access the necessary platforms and tools to bet on esports. So, how can you venture into it?
NXTbets is a resourceful platform where you can get reliable betting insights and strategies, including major esports tournaments. We will provide comprehensive guides and matchup previews to help you enjoy esports betting online. Stay tuned!
What is Esports Betting?
Before we talk about esports betting, it is imperative that we define what esports entails. How else will you know what you’re getting yourself into?
Esports is an organized, competitive video gaming where professional teams and players face off in games like Counter-Strike, League of Legends, Dota 2, Fortnite, and many others. It entails gamers playing matches in leagues and tournaments that feature live audiences and millions more watching online. Safe to say that it is a global sport.
The competition’s worldwide popularity has created a soaring international esports betting industry. This means that you can place bets on the outcome of these video game matches or events from anywhere in the world. All you need to do is ensure that it’s legal where you are.
If you are a seasoned sports betting punter, the concept in esports betting is similar – you simply predict a result (for instance, which player/team will win a match) and stake on that prediction through any licensed esports sportsbook.
Competitive Structure
Esports competitions have a structured format that is akin to traditional sports – we are referring to tournaments (round-robin group stages and elimination brackets), leagues (regular season and playoffs), and ranking systems. Individual players or teams get to battle it out for prestige, prize money, and sponsorship deals.
Match Formats
The match structures differ from game to game. For example, a standard CS:GO match is played over 30 rounds on a map (2 halves, each with 15 rounds).
On the other hand, a League of Legends match is a single game on a map, mostly played as part of a series.
Is Esports Betting Legal in My Country?
Nobody ever wants to be on the wrong side of the law. The first question a new bettor will ask is, “Is esports betting legal where I live?” This is a question whose answer varies depending on which part of the world you live in.
We can say that esports betting laws are generally tied to the sports betting laws in each country or state. If online sports betting is legal and regulated where you are, esports is certainly covered as one of the betting markets.
However, some regions may have specific restrictions (for instance, not allowing bets on matches with underage players, or treating esports differently from traditional sports). Let’s break down the legality of esports betting in key regions.
Note: Always remember to use legal esports betting sites that are licensed in your jurisdiction – this ensures that consumer protection rights and a fair betting environment are upheld.
Esports Betting Legal Status by Country
Country
Legal Status
Betting Age
Taxation on Winnings
Regulating Authority
United States
Legal, following the Supreme Court’s decision in Murphy v. National Collegiate Athletic Association in 2018.
However, it varies by state. For instance, esports is legal in Nevada, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania but illegal in Hawaii and Utah.
21
Yes
State Gaming Commissions
United Kingdom
Legal and Regulated
18
No
UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)
Germany
Legal under strict regulations per the German Interstate Treaty on Gambling (ISTG) or Glücksspielstaatsvertrag (GlüStV 2021)
18
No. However, there is a 5.3% stake tax charged on every euro wagered
Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL)
France
Legal with regulations per the Digital Republic Act (Loi pour une République numérique) of 2016
18
No
French Gambling Authority, also known as Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ)
Sweden
Legal and regulated under the Gambling Act 2019
18
No
Swedish Gambling Authority, Spelinspektionen.
Australia
Legal only for pre-match and regulated under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA)
18
No
State-based authorities (e.g., NT Racing Commission). However, the Australian Communications and Media Authority oversees the enforcement of the IGA
Philippines
Legal under licensed platforms
21
No
Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR)
India
No specific law, although the legality may vary from state to state
18
Yes
No central authority; often offshore licenses
Brazil
Legal
18
Yes (pending regulation)
Ministry of Finance
Canada
Legal, but also varies by province
18 or 19
No
Provincial regulators (e.g., the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario)
South Africa
Legal and regulated
18
No
National Gambling Board
Types of Esports Bets You Can Place
There is a wide range of esports betting markets you can take advantage of – from “who will win” to specific in-game outcomes like “first team to get a kill.” You must understand all these types of bets if you want to get the most out of esports betting. Here are the most common esports bets you should know about:
Match winner
This is the most straightforward bet where you pick which team or player will win the match. In a head-to-head matchup, you just choose Team A or Team B to win.
It is also called a moneyline bet (especially in the American odds context). For instance, if Fnatic is playing G2 in CS:GO, a match winner bet on Fnatic means you win if Fnatic wins the match (series).
Map winner
In games that are played in a series (multiple maps or rounds), you can bet on individual maps. For example, in a best-of-3 CS:GO match, you could bet on who wins Map 1, or Map 2, and so on. This is useful if you think a team constantly starts strong on the first map or has a known map advantage.
First blood
This is where you choose which team will get the first kill in the game (common in MOBAs like Dota 2/LoL, or even FPS like Valorant). It is usually one of the first events to occur, making it an exciting betting opportunity.
Over/Under
If you are a regular bettor, this market is not new to you. It is one of the few betting markets that cut across most (if not all) of the sports that allow betting. How does it work? The bookmaker/sportsbooks set a line and you bet on whether the final outcome will be over or under that value. Here are some examples:
Handicap
This market evens the odds between a favorite and an underdog. For example, in a best-of-5 League of Legends match, the favorite might have a -1.5 map handicap. If you bet on them at -1.5, they must win 3-0 or 3-1 (at least 2 maps more than the opponent) for your bet to win.
Live/In-play
These are the bets you place while the match is ongoing. All the bet types we’ve discussed prior to this can be offered in-play. The catch is that the odds are constantly changing to reflect the players’ or teams’ live performances.
Outrights
You can bet on the outcome of an entire tournament or league. This means you bet on outcomes such as who will win The International in Dota 2 or the League of Legends World Championship.
Sometimes, sportsbooks also offer you an opportunity to bet on things like “to reach the final” or “to win their group.”
Micro bets
In micro-betting, you stake on very short-term outcomes that occur within the next few minutes of play. For example: “Which team will win the next round?” in CS:GO, or “Will there be a kill in the next 1 minute?” in a MOBA, or “Next kill by Team A or Team B?”
It is essentially prop bets that are offered live and settled almost immediately. This is the kind of market you come across in betting platforms that want to give fans fast action and maximum adrenaline.
How Esports Betting Odds Work
Odds are the cornerstone of betting – they tell you how much you stand to win and how likely the outcome is (according to the bookmaker/sportsbook). Different regions display odds in different formats. The three main formats are decimal odds, fractional odds, and American odds.
How do esports odds work? Let’s go through the different odds formats:
Decimal Odds
Decimal odds are popular in Europe, Canada, Australia, Africa, and most regions of the world. The number represents the total payout for a 1-unit stake. For instance, odds of 2.50 mean if you bet 1 (₹1, $1, €1, etc.), you get 2.50 back total if you win (which is 1.50 profit plus your original 1 included). A winning bet at 2.50 yields 2.5 times your stake.
An odd of 1.50 is a favorite (because you’d win only 0.5 profit per 1 unit staked), whereas 10.0 would be an underdog (10x return). Implied probability is easily calculated as 1 / decimal odds. For example, 2.00 odds = 50% implied chance, 1.25 odds = 80% chance, 3.00 odds = 33.3% chance.
Fractional Odds
This is the traditional format in the UK and Ireland (also used in horse racing globally). Fractions quote the profit relative to the stake. For example, odds of 5/1 (“five-to-one”) mean you win 5 units profit for every 1 unit you stake (plus you get your stake back). So, a £10 bet at 5/1 yields a £60 return (£50 profit and £10 stake). A favorite might be 1/2 (“one-to-two” or “2 to 1 on”) – that means for every 2 you stake, you profit 1 (a £20 bet yields £10 profit = £30 return).
American Odds
Its popularity is in the name – it’s primarily used in the United States. American odds are expressed as either a positive or negative number, with a + or -. Positive odds (+200) indicate how much profit you’d make on a $100 stake. Negative odds (-200) indicate how much you need to stake to profit $100.
Best Esports Games to Bet
Esports is not one game – it is a combination of numerous games, each with its own competitive scene and fan following. The best esports games to bet on can depend on where you live. Let’s look at some of the most popular games across different regions:
North America: Call of Duty, CS:GO, NBA 2K
North America’s esports betting market is growing fast, even though it still lags a bit behind Europe/Asia in sheer volume (partly due to U.S. legal rollout). The most popular games to bet on in NA include:
Europe: CS:GO, Dota 2, FIFA
Europe is an esports betting powerhouse – many leading teams and tournaments are Europe-based, and their betting culture is well-established. The most popular games are:
South America: CS:GO, League of Legends
The esports betting culture in this region is growing with improving internet access and a young population. Here are the most popular games:
Southeast Asia: Mobile Legends, Dota 2, LoL
Southeast Asia (SEA) has a distinct esports culture. The top games to bet on include:
China/Korea: LoL, Starcraft II
While betting in these countries is a bit legally restricted (China outlaws gambling, whereas Korea has strict gambling laws for its citizens), we include them for completeness of popularity. Many outside bettors love Chinese/Korean esports matches. The most common games include:
India: Valorant, BGMI, Free Fire
The most popular games in India are:
Where to Bet on Esports Around the World
With esports being embraced by millions of people globally, it is not surprising that many online sportsbooks offer esports markets. The best sportsbooks vary depending on your choice and your location – some have dominated the U.S, while others have become popular in Europe.
Here is a list of where to bet on esports worldwide:
United States
United Kingdom & Europe
Pinnacle
Pinnacle is available in many countries other than the UK and the US. It is famous for low-margin odds and high limits, particularly for esports. They were one of the first major bookmakers to embrace esports back in 2010. If you’re in Canada, parts of Europe, Latin America, or Asia where Pinnacle operates (they have a Curacao license and others), it’s fantastic for getting the best odds.
Stake
Stake.com is a crypto-only sportsbook that offers a huge range of esports with instant transactions via Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies. Stake sponsors esports personalities and teams (recently partnered with Evil Geniuses). For regions where traditional betting isn’t available, Stake is an option.
BC.Game
This is another crypto casino-book that has expanded into sports/esports. It’s popular in parts of Asia and Africa where users might prefer crypto.
Bonuses and Offers for Global Esports Bettors
The best way to attract new customers and reward loyal ones is through bonuses. These bonuses and offers vary from country to country or state to state. Here is a table listing popular welcome bonuses based on regions:
Region
Bonuses
UK
Bet £10 get £30
EU (non-UK)
100% deposit match
US
Bet $5, get $200
LATAM
Bet Credits up to R$200
Southeast Asia
10% bonus on every deposit
Esports Betting Strategies for Global Players
The global esports betting scene is so dynamic and very competitive. As a result, you need more than mere luck to succeed. A strong strategy can help you make more informed bets with higher chances of success. Here are practical tips to consider:
Research Tips for Regional Leagues
Every regional league has its requirements. Treating all of them the same can be detrimental, especially because you will likely miss key details. For instance, the LCK of South Korea has teams with slower gameplay and more focus on control. The teams also tend to avoid unnecessary risks. This may require your strategy to consider late-game rivalries, consistent executions, and long games.
On the other hand, the LEC of Europe tends to be more aggressive, with frequent upsets and early-game action. The teams are more predictable, and the underdogs tend to win more.
In the MPL (Mobile Legends Professional League in Southeast Asia), hero familiarity and team coordination determine the performance. Most teams are drafted depending on comfort and not global trends alone. The metas also shift fast, which requires adequate attention.
To find your way around these variations, research how teams perform in different match formats, including BO1, BO3, and BO5. Evaluate how they adapt to patch changes or losses. Moreover, watch VODs and recent matches and follow local analysts and casters to understand forms, new developments, and trends.
Understand How to Analyze Patch Notes
Another crucial tip is knowing how to analyze the patch notes. Since a single update can make or destroy a team’s strategy, ignoring the patch notes would mean operating from a blind spot. To understand patch notes for the specific game you are wagering on, study and evaluate the following:
After studying these, assess how they affect the team. For instance, a team that relies more on now-nerfed strategy will likely struggle, while one that adapts quickly to new metas may be advantaged, especially in the early stages.
You should also watch early matches on new patches and pro scrims to get insights on what to expect. Observe the changes in strategies and place your bet early enough before the bookmakers adjust their odds based on the new meta.
Avoid Tilt and Manage Time Zones
If you are considering betting across the globe, you must manage your feelings and schedule. A tilt is what happens when emotions, such as frustrations, cloud your judgment. This can lead to making bets without research, risking too much stake on weak selections, and chasing your losses. However, remember that clear mental focus and adequate rest are vital for success in esports betting.
The differences in time zones can also add more pressure. For instance, whereas CDL games mostly happen late at night, LCK matches may start as early as dawn. To manage both of these aspects:
Use Regional Stat Platforms
Finally, utilize reliable stats to make informed bets. It is best to understand role performance, hero pool data, and team trends to stand out as an esports bettor. You must also cross-check player and team performance before placing your bet. To be able to do this, use these stat platforms to your advantage:
Responsible Gambling and Risk Awareness
Esports betting should be fun and entertaining, but like any form of gambling, it has risks.
However, here are some of the ways you can mitigate the risks of irresponsible gambling:
NXTbets promotes responsible gambling across all sports, not just esports. Subscribe to our newsletter for more tips on how to game responsibly!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Virtually all major betting sites have mobile-friendly websites or dedicated mobile apps for Android and iOS. You can register, deposit, place bets, and withdraw all from your smartphone or tablet.
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