Esports tournament news covers the world of high-stakes multiplayer video game competitions where teams compete for huge prize pools sponsored by mainstream brands. These high-profile events feature a wide variety of popular games, some with dedicated fanbases that can rival those for traditional sports. Some tournaments are focused on specific genres, such as the popular League of Legends, Dota 2 and Counter-Strike games or fighting and card games like Street Fighter and Super Smash Bros.
These tournaments are often televised and livestreamed, and their success has spurred many other major companies to invest in the industry. Major media networks ESPN and TBS broadcast esports, traditional sports leagues have launched their own tournaments, and the owners of NBA and NFL teams now have ownership stakes in esports teams. More than 600 colleges have added varsity esports programs and even offer scholarships to their players.
But while the esports industry continues to grow exponentially, it’s important to remember that it’s still just a video game. Just like football and ballet dancing, esports can be intense, and it’s not unusual for professional esport athletes to spend hours each day practicing and playing for the chance to win big money. They’re also not immune to the same controversies that plague traditional sports, including accusations of cheating and the use of performance-enhancing drugs.