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Introduction in eSports
Esports has rapidly evolved, captivating millions globally as they ardently follow their preferred teams and players across various video games. The Rookie Road has meticulously curated a list of the top 10 Esports games that have garnered immense popularity. Let’s thoroughly explore these games and discern the factors contributing to their widespread acclaim.
League of Legends:
What factors contribute to the unparalleled popularity of League of Legends among esports aficionados? Riot Games unveiled League of Legends (LoL) in 2009, categorizing it as a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game. It involves two teams, each comprising five players, vying to obliterate the opposing team’s Nexus while simultaneously safeguarding their own. The game’s allure is evident with its staggering player base exceeding 100 million. Notably, LoL set a world viewing record in 2019, attracting 3.9 million viewers during the League of Legends Worlds. The game’s competitive spirit is further accentuated with a prize pool of around $9 million for 2020.
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive:
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CSGO) has carved a niche for itself, but what distinguishes it from other first-person shooter games? Valve Corporation introduced CSGO in 2012. The game’s premise revolves around two teams of five players each, with one faction assuming the role of terrorists and the other as counter-terrorists. CSGO’s legacy is enriched by its dedicated fanbase, tracing its origins to the inaugural eSport game, Counter-Strike, released in 2000. The game’s viewership metrics are impressive, with the IEM Katowice tournament in 2019 registering a peak of 1.2 million viewers. The game’s allure is further amplified with a projected prize pool of $20 million for 2020.
Fortnite:
Fortnite’s meteoric rise in esports is undeniable, but what catalyzed its ascent? Epic Games launched Fortnite in 2017, classifying it as a battle royale game. It commences with 100 players parachuting from flying buses, landing at varied locales on the map. Post-landing, players engage in resource collection and skirmishes. The ultimate objective is singular – emerge as the last player or team standing. Fortnite’s competitive trajectory witnessed a significant boost in 2018, punctuated by tournaments like the Summer and Fall Skirmish and the 2019 World Cup. The game’s 2019 World Cup was monumental, drawing 2.3 million viewers. With a prize pool of $7 million for 2020, Fortnite’s competitive allure remains undiminished.
Dota 2:
Dota 2’s appeal among strategy game enthusiasts is palpable, but what elements underscore its charm? Valve Corporation unveiled Dota 2 in 2013, categorizing it as a real-time strategy action game. Players “heroes” are bifurcated into two teams, each striving to annihilate the enemy’s Ancient edifice. Dota 2’s esports landscape is enriched by the Dota Pro Circuit, culminating in the annual marquee event, The International. The 2019 edition of The International was historic, boasting the largest prize pool in esports history, a staggering $34 million.
Hearthstone:
Hearthstone’s distinctiveness in esports is evident, but what factors amplify its uniqueness? Blizzard Entertainment introduced Hearthstone in 2014, defining it as a card-centric game. Players meticulously curate a deck, leveraging it to duel against adversaries. Since its inception, Hearthstone has been an esports mainstay. The 2019 Hearthstone World Championship was a testament to its popularity, attracting 276k viewers.
Call of Duty:
Call of Duty’s sustained relevance in the esports domain is commendable. Activision’s brainchild, Call of Duty, has continually evolved since its 2003 debut. The game’s evolution has been marked by the introduction of diverse multiplayer modes and thematic shifts. Its competitive foray commenced in 2010, culminating in the inaugural Call of Duty World Championship in 2013 with a $1 million prize pool. The game’s 2020 edition promises a prize pool of $6 million, underscoring its continued esports significance.
Overwatch:
Overwatch’s distinction in esports is evident, but what elements contribute to its prominence? Blizzard Entertainment’s 2016 release, Overwatch, is a multiplayer shooting game offering many combat modes. The Overwatch League, initiated in 2018, is a testament to the game’s competitive spirit, with a prize pool of $5 million for 2020.
Rainbow Six Siege:
Rainbow Six Siege’s burgeoning popularity in the esports community is noteworthy. Ubisoft’s 2015 release, Rainbow Six Siege, is a first-person shooter, emphasizing tactical gameplay. The game’s competitive ecosystem was enriched with the 2016 inception of the Rainbow Six Pro League. The Six Invitational in February 2020 was a landmark event, drawing 303k viewers.
Rocket League:
Rocket League’s fusion of traditional sports with esports elements is innovative. Psyonix’s 2015 release, Rocket League, is akin to soccer, albeit with rocket-powered vehicles. The game’s competitive allure is evident with the Rocket League Championship Series’ prize pool escalating to over $350,000.
NBA 2K:
NBA 2K’s synthesis of traditional basketball with esports elements is commendable. Initially released in 1999, NBA 2K simulates conventional basketball gameplay. The NBA 2K League, launched in 2018, is a collaborative venture with the NBA, with the playoffs’ prize pool amounting to $900,000.
For a holistic understanding and deeper insights into the burgeoning world of esports, consider visiting the original Rookie Road blog. Esports’ trajectory promises exhilarating entertainment, substantial prize pools, and a luminous future for aficionados and players alike.
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