How Esports Betting Works: A Look at Different Types of Bets and Wagers

Esports, or competitive video gaming, has exploded in popularity over the last decade, not just as a form of entertainment but also as a thriving betting market. Just like traditional sports, esports has developed its own betting ecosystem, offering fans and gamblers a range of betting options on various games like "League of Legends," "Dota 2," "Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS)," and more.

Esports betting involves placing wagers on the outcome of professional video game matches. These matches are played between teams or individual players and are broadcast online, drawing millions of viewers globally. With the rise of esports, many sportsbooks have started offering a variety of betting markets, allowing fans to bet on their favorite teams, players, and in-game events.

Legal Landscape of Esports Betting

Before diving into how esports betting works, it’s important to understand the legal landscape. Esports betting is legal in many countries, but regulations vary. In some regions, only licensed sportsbooks can offer esports betting, while in others, the market is more open. Bettors should always check the local regulations to ensure they are betting legally and safely.

Esports betting offers various types of wagers, each with its own rules and potential for profit. Understanding these bets is crucial for anyone looking to enter the esports betting world.

1. Moneyline Bets

Moneyline bets are the simplest and most common type of bet in esports betting. In a moneyline bet, you are simply betting on which team or player will win a match. For example, if Team A is playing against Team B, you place a bet on who you think will win. The odds will vary based on the perceived strength of each team or player.

How Moneyline Odds Work

● Favorite: The team expected to win will have negative odds (e.g., -150). This means you need to bet $150 to win $100.

● Underdog: The team expected to lose will have positive odds (e.g., +200). This means a $100 bet will win you $200.

Moneyline bets are straightforward and ideal for beginners who want to start with the basics.

2. Handicap Betting

Handicap betting, also known as spread betting, is a popular option in esports online betting, particularly when there is a perceived skill gap between two teams. In this type of bet, a handicap is set to level the playing field. For example, if a strong team is facing a weaker team, the stronger team may be given a -1.5 map handicap, meaning they need to win by two or more maps for the bet to be successful.

Example of Handicap Betting

● Team A (-1.5): If you bet on Team A, they must win the match by at least two maps.

● Team B (+1.5): If you bet on Team B, they can either win the match outright or lose by only one map for the bet to pay out.

Handicap betting can offer more attractive odds and is great for those who understand the strengths and weaknesses of the teams involved.

3. Over/Under Bets

Over/Under bets, also known as totals, involve betting on the total number of maps, rounds, or kills in a game, rather than the outcome of the match itself. For example, in a best-of-three "CS" match, a sportsbook might set the over/under at 2.5 maps. If you bet on the "over," you are betting that the match will go to a third map.

Common Over/Under Markets in Esports

● Total Maps: Bet on whether the total number of maps played will be over or under a specified number.

● Total Kills: Bet on the total number of kills achieved by a team or player in a game.

● Total Rounds: Bet on the total number of rounds played in a game like "CS."

Over/Under bets provide a way to bet on the dynamics of the game rather than just the winner, adding more variety to betting strategies.

4. Prop Bets (Proposition Bets)

Prop bets are wagers on specific occurrences within a game that may not directly relate to the final outcome. These bets are highly popular in esports due to the wide variety of in-game events and scenarios that can occur.

Examples of Prop Bets in Esports

● First Blood: Bet on which team or player will get the first kill in a game.

● First to 10 Kills: Bet on which team or player will reach 10 kills first.

● Dragon Slain First (in League of Legends): Bet on which team will kill the first Dragon in the game.

Prop bets are fun and add an extra layer of excitement to esports betting. They are ideal for bettors who closely follow the game and understand the strategies and tactics of different teams.

5. Futures Bets

Futures bets are long-term wagers placed on events that will happen in the future, such as the winner of a tournament or league. These bets are made well in advance and can offer substantial payouts if you predict correctly.

Common Futures Bets in Esports

● Tournament Winner: Bet on which team will win a specific tournament.

● League Champion: Bet on the team that will win a league, such as the "League of Legends" World Championship.

● Player of the Tournament: Bet on which player will be named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of a tournament.

Futures bets require a deep understanding of the teams and players involved, as well as an ability to predict how the competition will unfold over time.

6. Live Betting (In-Play Betting)

Live betting, or in-play betting, allows bettors to place wagers on a match while it is happening. This type of betting is highly dynamic, as odds change rapidly based on the unfolding events in the game. Live betting is popular in esports due to the fast-paced nature of the games.

Examples of Live Betting Options

● Next Team to Score: Bet on which team will score the next point or achieve the next objective.

● Current Map Winner: Bet on which team will win the current map being played.

● Next Kill: Bet on which player or team will get the next kill.

Live betting requires quick thinking and a deep understanding of the game, as the odds can shift dramatically in a matter of seconds.

To succeed in esports betting, you need more than just knowledge of the games; you need a solid strategy.

1. Research and Stay Updated

Keep up with the latest news, team rosters, player form, and patch updates, as these factors can heavily influence game outcomes.

2. Understand the Odds and Markets

Make sure you understand how different types of bets work and the odds associated with them. Knowing when to bet on the favorite or the underdog is crucial.

3. Manage Your Bankroll

Never bet more than you can afford to lose. Set a budget and stick to it to avoid potential losses that could impact your finances.

Esports betting offers a range of exciting betting options that cater to different types of bettors, from beginners to seasoned professionals. Understanding the different types of bets—moneyline, handicap, over/under, prop, futures, and live bets—can help you make more informed decisions and enhance your betting experience. Whether you're a fan of "League of Legends," "CS," or any other esports title, knowing how to navigate the betting landscape is key to making the most of your wagers.