What makes esports so different from physical sports? Physical sports are timeless and owned by nobody; esports depend on developers. Developers may shutter esports for lack of revenue or newer products. Franchises based on esports aren’t as stable and have little chance of success. Besides, they may be shuttered for no reason at all. So, how do these differences come about?
esports is a multibillion dollar industry
In addition to professional players, esports teams now feature physiotherapists, sports psychologists, and a separate gaming office. Fans often form dedicated fan clubs, and some even airdrop into the field of play during tournaments. Despite its relative newness, esports is already a multibillion dollar industry. Its competitive infrastructure is similar to that of other sports, including a field of play and a set of rules. The only difference is that esports matches are played in virtual arenas instead of ballparks.
It is a team sport
As with any team sport, esports is a team effort. Although it doesn’t have the physical activity of traditional sports, it is still a sport, and pro gamers are more physically fit than their peers. Because of this, esports teams often feature sponsors on their team jerseys and on their websites. Some of the top teams have followers on social media that exceed one million. Major leagues and tournaments also feature esports, including the World eSports Games and the Electronic Sports World Cup.
It is televised
It is no secret that television networks have been scrambling to fill the void left by the coronavirus. As a result, they have been airing sports-themed movies, documentaries, and televised esports. As the title indicates, esports are competitive video games played by professional gamers and watched by spectators. With its televised nature, esports may become a new television staple in the near future.
It is a franchise model
Esports teams can be bought and sold on in-game markets to raise money. The Rocket League Championship Series allows teams to sell in-game items to raise money, though they don’t consider this revenue massively material. While the Rocket League championship series team could welcome the franchised model, it is unclear how many other esports leagues are ripe for franchising. Franchised leagues may harm the ecosystem’s health.
It is open to all
If you’re a gamer, you’ve probably heard of eSports. While traditional sports like baseball or football require a high level of physical fitness, eSports requires extraordinary mental fitness. It requires quick reflexes, rapid decision-making, and acute analytical skills. The game requires intense practice and strategizing, and players spend a significant amount of time watching film and analyzing their opponents.
