Betting on eSports is straightforward, but understanding the basics is key to making informed wagers. eSports involves competitive video gaming, where individuals or teams face off in popular games. Sportsbooks provide schedules of upcoming matches, called fixtures, enabling bettors to place bets on their favorite events.
Some of the most popular eSports titles to bet on include Dota 2, Valorant, Rocket League, League of Legends, Fortnite, and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO). Knowing the games and their dynamics is an essential step in successful eSports betting.
Popular eSports Betting Options
Major eSports events offer a wide range of betting options, and understanding these markets is essential for making informed decisions and maximizing your betting opportunities. Below, we’ll break down the most popular types of eSports markets to help you get started. For more tips, visit this detailed guide on CSGORoll referral codes.
Point Spread
Although less common in eSports compared to traditional US sports, map handicap betting is available for matches involving multiple maps or games. In this market, the favorite is assigned a map handicap, while the underdog is given a map advantage. To win the bet, the actual outcome must cover the specified point spread.
Totals (O/U)
One of the most common eSports bets is the total bet, often displayed as O/U (Over/Under). The specifics depend on the game, but it generally involves wagering on the combined total of points scored, kills made, or maps played by both teams. Your bet hinges on whether the total will surpass (Over) or stay below (Under) a set number determined by the bookmaker.
Futures
Future bets let you predict the outcome of an event set to take place in the future. Sportsbooks frequently provide futures for eSports events well before they start, such as wagering on tournament winners or championship titles.
Parlays
A parlay bet combines multiple individual bets into one wager. To create a parlay, add your selections to the parlay tab on your bet slip and input your stake. For the parlay to win, every selection must be correct — if even one is wrong, the entire bet is lost.
Prop bets
For beginners in sports or eSports betting, prop bets, short for proposition bets, focus on specific in-game events or player achievements rather than the overall match result. In eSports, these could range from predicting the number of towers a team will destroy to wagering on the first team to slay the Baron. The larger the tournament or game, the wider the range of prop bets you’ll encounter, adding an extra layer of excitement to the action.
A Comprehensive Guide to eSports Betting Odds
Understanding odds is crucial when it comes to calculating your potential returns in eSports betting. Odds differ across various markets and indicate the relative strength of each team — whether one is the favorite or the underdog.
To maximize your betting profits, it’s essential to select a platform that offers competitive odds. By comparing odds from different sportsbooks, you can make more informed decisions and enhance your overall betting strategy.
Exploring Decimal Odds
The decimal odds format is most commonly used in regions like Africa and Europe due to its straightforward nature. The number shown represents the total payout for each $1 wagered. For example, if you bet $5 at 1.5 odds, your total return would be $7.50.
Breaking Down Fractional Odds
Fractional odds are popular in the UK and Ireland. To calculate the payout, the formula is: Total payout = (stake * fractional odds) + stake.
For example, a $5 bet at 5/1 odds would yield a total return of $30.
Understanding Moneyline (American) Odds
Moneyline bets are common in US eSports betting due to their simplicity. In this format, a ‘+’ sign indicates the underdog, while a ‘-‘ sign denotes the favorite. The number value reflects the potential winnings. For example, a +120 moneyline means a $100 bet would win $120, while a -120 moneyline means you need to wager $120 to win $100.
How to Bet on Live eSports Games
In-play betting, also known as live betting, allows you to place bets while the game is happening. The odds continuously shift based on the game’s progression, so a quick reaction to changes in the game is essential for success.
Most sportsbooks offer live streaming, often through platforms like Twitch, so you can watch the action unfold while placing your bets. Keep in mind that live events typically offer fewer betting options and the markets can close quickly.
Key Strategies for Betting on eSports
Now that you have a solid understanding of eSports betting, it’s time to focus on strategies to increase your chances of success. Below are expert tips to help you improve your betting game:
1. Exercise Patience
It’s best to take your time, particularly during the early stages of a major tournament. Teams tend to come in with unique strategies, and upsets are common early on. Observing how the tournament unfolds can often be more beneficial than rushing into a bet.
2. Seek Out the Best Betting Opportunities
Rather than betting on favorites for small, predictable returns, focus on finding the best odds for underdog teams with potential advantages that are not immediately reflected in the odds. This approach offers a higher risk-to-reward ratio.
3. Place Smaller, Consistent Bets
Rather than betting large amounts on a few high-risk matches, consider spreading your bets out over time with smaller, consistent wagers. This strategy helps mitigate the risk of significant losses.
4. Factor in the Tournament Structure
Players often experience stage nerves, which can lead to mistakes. More experienced teams tend to handle high-pressure situations better. Additionally, the timing of matches and the effects of different time zones can play a role in international tournaments, with some teams benefiting from more favorable schedules.
5. Use Multiple Bookmakers
Why settle for just one sportsbook? Registering with different eSports betting platforms allows you to compare odds, promotional offers, and available markets. This way, you can always get the best value for your bets, increasing your potential for greater returns.
Conclusion
Betting on eSports is relatively straightforward if you understand the key elements involved. This guide has covered the most common betting options, different odds formats, live betting strategies, and essential tips for improving your chances of success.
As you continue to refine your betting strategy, always take the time to analyze the factors that can influence a game’s outcome. Flexibility is key — be ready to adapt your approach as circumstances change. With preparation and the right strategies, you’ll be well on your way to making more informed and successful eSports bets.