Esport is an emerging spectator sport in the world of video games, where human players compete against one another. It is an industry that has spawned teams similar to the NFL or NBA. It is not only a spectator sport, but a means of self-actualization for gamers. The German soccer team Schalke 04 has formed an esport team and the USA national basketball team has begun recruiting esport players. These organizations gain resources through sponsorship deals and price money from players who compete in tournaments and leagues.
esports is a spectator sport
Spectator sports are sports where the participants are not actively involved in the game. They are usually seen as a more recreational activity. A spectator sport may be amateur or professional. It is also distinguished from participant sports. Regardless of its type, esports has many benefits for both participants and spectators.
Esports has become an extremely popular spectator sport. According to the NJ Games, 124 million people watched esports events in 2012, and three-hundred million people watched the competition in 2017. Some sources predict that this number will reach 557 million by 2021.
It is a means to self-actualization
Esport players can form teams and develop relationships with people around the world. Esport teams recruit internationally, much like traditional sports teams do. While this can sometimes hurt group dynamics, the diversity of race and ethnicity is good for cognitive development in a group environment. In addition to fostering self-actualization, esport teams can also foster intercultural understanding.
It is an industry like the NFL or NBA
While organized sports have been around for centuries, esports have only been around for 25 years. League of Legends is the most popular esport by viewership. But, how does the esports industry compare to a traditional sports franchise? There are a few similarities and differences.
The main difference is that esports are video games. Typically, they feature a competitive element, such as a one-on-one match. Overwatch, an online first-person shooter, has many of these types of games. Its popularity has risen as an industry, with millions of fans watching matches via streaming services. The competition also attracts fans who attend live events.