The world of esports is growing by leaps and bounds. More people are joining this discipline as professionals who are dedicated to eSports or gaming as a full-time job.
On the other hand, brands are detecting good business opportunities in this sector. They are either looking to promote themselves, sponsor the players’ kit, pay for mentions, or be the official team suppliers.
But for companies to carry out their marketing strategy, knowing how to differentiate between eSports and gaming is crucial. It is common for both terms to be confused by those who are not experts, and it is crucial to understand their differences.
What is Considered eSports?
The term comes from “Electronic Sports”, which are multiplayer video games in which several professionals compete for a prize under the expectation of many users. The goal of every professional player is to excel in a specific electronic sport.
These individuals train daily for new techniques and better team performance and coordination. They consider themselves professional athletes and compete in sports leagues like the NFL. Most teams have their facilities, coaches, nutritionists, and even personal chefs to ensure players are in peak condition to compete.
Money is the biggest motivation. Some of the most famous competitions have outrageous rewards. For example, the popular tournament, The International 2021, was more than 40 million dollars.
Many brands are rethinking changing their advertising investment to reach this new audience that is moving towards esports.
What is Considered Gaming?
The goal of gaming, on the other hand, is pure enjoyment and entertainment. Although some video games include titles and are competed for, these tournaments are held outside of officially sanctioned competitions. For example, Twitch, the streaming platform most used by users, categorizes them as simple games.
Gamers are players who create content and entertain their followers. Some even have tens of thousands of spectators watching them play live. But that does not make them eSports professionals. Those who stand out in gaming tend to do so because of their personality and the ability to connect with their fans and create entertaining content.
Most of the most famous gamers on Twitch have failed to rank in the top 300 in the Fortnite World Cup, for example. Those who stand out in gaming tend to do so more for their personality and the ability to connect with their fans and create entertaining content than for their excellence in gaming.
What Aspects Make a Game eSports?
Regulated leagues and tournaments are the most critical point. The different leagues and tournaments that take place must be serious and regulated. I mean, be official.
Competition
For a video game to be considered eSports, it must have a competitive element and allow more than two participants to compete. This can be done online or in person, but the game must comply with sporting values. Also, promote emotions among the followers, as this is the key to success and achieving thousands of spectators in each tournament.
Equal Footing
All players must have the same opportunities to participate. Only those who get a higher investment can take the lead. The skills of each professional should be the only variable when it comes to winning a championship.
Finally, eSports must add constant updates to their video games. This prevents the same player from consistently winning because he stands out a lot in one field. Changes are made to how games work to keep games evolving and maintaining balance.
Some techniques that are used when carrying out updates are the inclusion of new characters, game methods, or mechanics. This also prevents viewers from getting bored.
To enter the eSports sector, either as a brand or as a player, it is necessary to know the sector closely. More schools and universities are committed to training professionals in this field.
Similarities Between eSports and Gaming
Both Activities Have Titles in their Competitions
Titles are one of the main similarities between these activities. Even though they are for fun, video games have titles embedded in them, while eSports also are championships.
Both Can be Played With a Console
eSports and gaming are activities that can be played with a console or a device (like play slots online can be played with a PC). This is one of the reasons why people are confused about how they can be different activities. However, we have outlined the differences above in detail.
Conclusion
Gaming and eSports are among the modern activities in which many individuals have been growing in recent years. It has been intertwined in terms of definition in recent years by fans and players, and that has caused some confusion.
We have outlined the differences and similarities between these two aspects of global competition and entertainment. As much as esports is considered a sport and gaming as entertainment, they are essential, and we hope you got value from your read. Thanks for stopping by!
