How and Where to Bet on eSports?

The world of electronic sports, universally known as eSports, has witnessed an extraordinary surge in popularity over recent years. What began as a niche interest among video game enthusiasts has blossomed into a global phenomenon, captivating millions of fans and participants worldwide. As these competitive video gaming events mirror the structure and intensity of traditional sports, it was only a matter of time before the excitement of making predictions and placing bets entered the arena.

For players in India, the opportunity to engage with eSports betting is becoming increasingly accessible and popular. We're here to guide you through the process of betting on eSports via sports betting sites and online casinos, a trend that continues to grow significantly in 2025.

The Phenomenal Rise of eSports Betting in India

eSports has firmly established itself as a dynamic new discipline, attracting a massive global following. While debates about its status as a “sport” continue, its growth trajectory is undeniable. New leagues, professional teams, and star players emerge constantly, transforming competitive gaming into a legitimate career path and a major entertainment industry.

In India, the digital revolution and a vast youth demographic have created fertile ground for eSports to flourish. With increasing internet penetration and access to gaming devices, the viewership and participation in eSports events have skyrocketed, naturally leading to a burgeoning interest in eSports betting.

A Glimpse into eSports History

While eSports might seem like a modern marvel, its roots stretch back further than many realise. The concept of competitive video gaming began to take shape in the 1990s, with South Korea often credited as a pioneer. It was here that competitive gamers first gained recognition as “athletes,” paving the way for the formation of official clubs, lucrative sponsorship deals, and dedicated television broadcasts.

Today, professional eSports players are true athletes in their own right. They undergo rigorous training, develop intricate strategies, and maintain physical and mental discipline to compete at the highest levels, transforming the simple act of playing video games into a high-stakes profession.

Why eSports Betting is a Global Trend

The popularity of eSports is staggering. Globally, it rivals and even surpasses the viewership of many traditional sports leagues. This immense popularity has naturally spilled over into the betting world, with eSports betting playing a significant role in its continued growth.

Numerous international bookmakers now cater to the online gambling market, offering a wide array of betting options for the most captivating eSports events. The sports betting industry has embraced eSports, with more and more platforms adding this exciting category to their offerings. For eSports enthusiasts in India, this means more opportunities to engage with their favourite games and potentially profit from their knowledge.

Bookmakers provide diverse markets for eSports, ranging from simple match-winner bets to more complex in-game propositions. The most prominent titles for eSports betting include:

• League of Legends (LoL): A dominant force in the eSports world, LoL consistently features large tournaments and extensive betting markets.
• Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO): Known for its tactical depth and intense gameplay, CS:GO remains a favourite among bettors.
• Dota 2: Another massive multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game with a huge prize pool and dedicated following.
• Valorant: Riot Games' tactical first-person shooter has quickly gained traction in the competitive scene.
• Call of Duty (CoD): A long-standing franchise with a strong competitive league and betting interest.
• Overwatch: Blizzard's team-based shooter also offers exciting betting opportunities.

While League of Legends often leads in terms of betting volume and market availability, the landscape is constantly evolving, with new games and tournaments emerging regularly.

How to Get Started with eSports Betting in India

If you're keen to dive into the world of eSports betting from India, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you begin:

1. Choose a Reputable Betting Site

The first crucial step is to select an online betting platform that is reliable, secure, and accessible in India. Look for sites that:

• Are licensed and regulated by international authorities (e.g., MGA, UKGC, Curacao eGaming).
• Offer a wide range of eSports markets and competitive odds.
• Support popular Indian payment methods like UPI, NetBanking, Paytm, Google Pay, and various e-wallets.
• Provide good customer support.
• Have a user-friendly interface.

2. Register and Verify Your Account

Once you've chosen a site, you'll need to create an account. This typically involves providing personal details such as your name, email, date of birth, and address. Most reputable sites will require identity verification (KYC – Know Your Customer) to comply with regulations and prevent fraud. This usually involves submitting copies of your ID and proof of address.

3. Deposit Funds

After your account is set up and verified, you can deposit funds. Navigate to the cashier or banking section of the site. Select your preferred payment method and enter the amount you wish to deposit. Ensure you understand any minimum deposit limits or transaction fees.

4. Understand eSports Odds and Markets

Before placing a bet, familiarise yourself with how odds work (decimal, fractional, or American) and the different types of markets available:

• Match Winner: Simply betting on which team will win the match.
• Map Winner: Betting on which team will win a specific map within a multi-map series.
• Handicap Betting: Giving one team a virtual advantage or disadvantage to balance the odds.
• First Blood/First Kill: Betting on which team or player will achieve the first kill in a game.
• Total Maps/Rounds: Betting on whether the total number of maps or rounds played will be over or under a specified number.
• Prop Bets: Specific in-game events, like who gets the first Baron in LoL or the first plant in CS:GO.

5. Place Your Bet

Browse the eSports section of the betting site, find the game and match you're interested in, and click on the odds for your desired outcome. Your selection will be added to a bet slip. Enter your stake, review the potential payout, and confirm your bet.

Tips for Successful eSports Betting

• Research is Key: Understand the teams, their recent performance, player form, head-to-head records, and their preferred strategies or map pools.
• Know the Game: A deep understanding of the eSports title you're betting on (game mechanics, meta, character strengths/weaknesses) is invaluable.
• Watch Live Streams: Following live matches can give you insights into team dynamics and player performance that statistics alone might not reveal.
• Bankroll Management: Set a budget for your betting activities and stick to it. Never bet more than you can afford to lose.
• Compare Odds: Different bookmakers offer varying odds. Shopping around can help you find the best value for your bets.

Responsible Gambling in India

While eSports betting can be an exciting way to engage with your favourite games, it's crucial to gamble responsibly. Online gambling in India operates in a complex legal landscape, but responsible practices are universally important. Always remember:

• Betting should be for entertainment, not a source of income.
• Set limits on how much time and money you spend.
• Never chase losses.
• If you feel gambling is becoming a problem, seek help. Many international betting sites offer self-exclusion tools and links to support organisations.

The world of eSports betting in India is vibrant and growing. By understanding the basics, choosing reputable platforms, and betting responsibly, you can enjoy this thrilling aspect of competitive gaming in 2025 and beyond.