Esports has become a multi-billion dollar industry in recent years, with millions of fans around the world tuning in to watch their favorite teams and players compete. With so many different games to choose from, it can be tough to know which ones are worth your time and attention. Here are the top 10 esports games that you should be following if you want to stay on top of the scene.
1. League of Legends
League of Legends, or LoL for short, is one of the most popular esports games in the world. Created by Riot Games, it features two teams of five players battling it out on a virtual battlefield. The game has a massive following, with millions of players and fans tuning in to watch the biggest tournaments.
2. Dota 2
Valve's Dota 2 is another hugely popular esports game, with a similar format to LoL. Two teams of five players compete to destroy the other team's base while defending their own. Dota 2 has a massive prize pool for its annual tournament, The International, which routinely tops $20 million.
3. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, or CS:GO, is a first-person shooter game that has been around for over a decade. Players compete in teams of five, with one team trying to plant a bomb while the other team tries to defuse it. CS:GO has a massive following and is one of the most-watched esports games in the world.
4. Overwatch
Blizzard's Overwatch is a team-based first-person shooter that has become a popular esports game in recent years. Each player chooses a hero with unique abilities, and teams compete to complete objectives such as capturing a point or pushing a payload. Overwatch has a bright and colorful aesthetic that sets it apart from other esports games.
5. Fortnite
Epic Games' Fortnite has become a cultural phenomenon, with millions of players and fans around the world. The game is a battle royale, with 100 players competing to be the last one standing on an island. Fortnite has a unique building mechanic that sets it apart from other battle royale games.
6. Hearthstone
Hearthstone is a digital collectible card game created by Blizzard. Players build decks of cards featuring characters and spells from the Warcraft universe and compete against each other. Hearthstone has a massive following and is one of the most popular esports games in the world.
7. Rainbow Six Siege
Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege is a tactical first-person shooter that has become popular in the esports scene. Teams of five compete to complete objectives such as rescuing hostages or diffusing bombs. Rainbow Six Siege is known for its destructible environments and emphasis on strategy.
8. Street Fighter V
Capcom's Street Fighter V is a fighting game that has been around for over 30 years. Players choose from a roster of characters and compete in one-on-one battles. Street Fighter V is a staple of the fighting game community and has a dedicated esports scene.
9. Rocket League
Rocket League is a unique esports game that combines soccer with rocket-powered cars. Teams of three compete to score goals while driving around a virtual arena. Rocket League has a dedicated fanbase and is known for its fast-paced, exciting gameplay.
10. Starcraft II
Blizzard's Starcraft II is a real-time strategy game that has been around for over a decade. Players build bases, gather resources, and command armies to defeat their opponents. Starcraft II has a dedicated esports scene and is known for its depth and complexity.