What The Heck is eSports?
Picture 20,000 people in an arena, cheering wildly as they watch competitors locked in an intense battle displayed on huge screens. This is a pro sporting event, to be sure, except not in the traditional sense. eSports – the highest level of competitive gaming – is where the best go-ahead to head and fans gather to watch, either live or via streaming video.
The movement is growing, with more players, board games, and more fans. Some events can draw 40 million online viewers.
What are the stakes?
In the big competitions, where only the top players qualify, spoils can range from a $125,000 prize pool for a Vainglory event to a staggering $20 million for the Dota 2 International Championships.
I’m intrigued. How do I explore?
Although anyone can become an esports competitor, the easiest way to dive in is as a spectator. But before you do it’s a good idea to play a few games first. Clash Royale is a great starter game. The rules of this card-based strategy game are straightforward enough that you’ll get the gist after a few matches.
And you can view live competitions right in the Clash Royale app. On the main screen, tap the small TV icon, then select one of the battles. You’ll find most skilled players sparring in the legendary arena. Watching pros duke it out gives you a glimpse of the high-level strategies involved, and you’ll also get to peek at the cards players unlock as they move up the ranks.
Where else can I watch?
Many other games have built-in spectator modes but the twitch app lets you view nearly every game in one spot the streaming platform is devoted almost entirely to the sports, and each day it bubbles up trending games and high-stakes tournaments. It’s the best way to discover new games and watch the Masters compete. Paragraph if you’re looking for a more personal experience, we recommend a caffeine.tv, an app that streams games and entertainment. In caffeine.tv, you focus on the friends you follow rather than a specific game or subject. You can even connect with others by broadcast live yourself!
What kind of games are there?
Although he sports span many different genres, the most popular are multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBA’s), in which teams compete to invade their enemies basis. In these matches, teamwork, quick reflexes, and flexibility are paramount. The mobile is Arena of Valor and Vainglory were built for touchscreens and feature a huge cast of fighters to take into battle
Art of war: Red tides is another great option. In this fast-paced strategy game, team up with two other players to make quick decisions about which characters sent into battle – as your enemies do the same
Card games are hugely popular Esports on iPhone and iPad, thanks to their intuitive touchscreen controls and short gameplay sessions. But even the briefest matches can be packed with white-knuckle action.
Hearthstone, for example, has straightforward rules, but watching the Masters attack, defend, and pivot to different tactics can be as engaging as a high-intensity tennis match.
Credit — The original article is found on Apple iTunes.
