Betting on eGaming - Top Titles and the Full Esports Olympic Games Lineup

The eGaming betting sector has experienced astonishing growth in recent years, confirming its position as one of the most exciting and dynamic verticals in the iGaming industry. In 2023 alone, global esports revenues soared to $1.38 billion, with esports betting contributing a significant $250 million. This rise has been fuelled by a combination of factors, from an increasing number of high-profile tournaments to a growing audience of engaged fans eager to bet on their knowledge of esports.

As competitive gaming continues its upward trajectory, the upcoming esports Olympics in Saudi Arabia is poised to ignite yet another surge in the industry’s growth. This landmark event offers sportsbooks a unique chance to capitalise on the heightened visibility of esports, attracting new audiences and driving substantial betting activity. With bet sizes climbing as the market matures, operators who embrace these shifts are well-positioned to unlock stronger player engagement and long-term profitability.

The question is, is your sportsbook ready to seize the opportunity? In this article, we’ll explore the most popular games to bet on and why 2025 is your chance to capture the Olympic-sized opportunity in esports.

Top eGaming Titles Dominating Esports Betting in 2025

In the absence of direct financial data, combining several insightful indicators can help operators better determine which esports titles are worth integrating into their offerings.

The following ranking prioritises titles with the most active betting markets, highest global reach, and diverse betting opportunities, providing a clear hierarchy for sports betting operators to use when deciding which games to focus on.

1. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS: GO)

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, commonly known as CS:GO, is a tactical first-person shooter developed by Valve Corporation. In this game, two teams - Terrorists and Counter-Terrorists - compete in objective-based modes such as bomb defusal and hostage rescue. Players must purchase weapons and equipment, manage their in-game economy, and employ strategic gameplay to outmanoeuvre the opposing team.

CS:GO consistently ranks as the premier esports betting title, and the statistics speak for themselves. In 2024, it accounted for an impressive 58% of all real-money esports bets, dominating the betting market with its widespread popularity. Its appeal lies in its massive player base of over 24 million active users per month and its highly competitive nature, which keeps bettors engaged.

Major tournaments like the PGL Major regularly draw millions of viewers, and prize pools exceed $2 million, revealing the game's immense popularity. Bettors are particularly drawn to CS:GO for its diverse betting markets, which offer options like map winners, round outcomes, and even in-play bets on live events. Its strong presence in Europe further cements its status as a top-tier betting esport.

2. League of Legends (LoL)

League of Legends, a top title developed by Riot Games, is a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game in which two teams of five champions battle to destroy the opposing team's Nexus. Each player selects a unique champion with distinct abilities to engage in strategic combat, manage resources, and coordinate with teammates. Since its 2009 release, LoL has evolved into a premier esports title, boasting a massive global player base and a well-structured competitive scene.

In 2024, LoL accounted for 26% of esports betting turnover, reflecting its significant presence in the market. The game's appeal is further highlighted by its vast player base, which reached 140-150 million monthly users worldwide in 2024. The same year, major tournaments, such as the World Championship, reached a peak viewership of 6.9 million, further emphasising its widespread popularity. The structured league system and regular high-stakes competitions provide bettors with consistent opportunities, making LoL a dominant presence in the esports betting market.

The tournament’s prize pool, which exceeded $2.2 million, further highlights its prominence in the competitive scene. For betting operators, LoL’s structured leagues, frequent tournaments, and diverse betting markets, such as first blood, total kills, and match winner, offer a wealth of opportunities to engage bettors. Its strong appeal in Asia, coupled with its global reach, cements its position as a top-tier betting esport.

3. Dota 2

Dota 2 is another top betting title developed by Valve Corporation. It is a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game where two teams of five players compete to destroy the opposing team's Ancient, a critical structure within their base. Players select from a vast roster of over 120 heroes, each with unique abilities and roles, creating near-endless strategic possibilities. Matches require sharp tactical coordination, deep knowledge of hero interactions, and effective team synergy. Building on the foundation of its predecessor, Defense of the Ancients (DotA), Dota 2 has evolved into a game synonymous with competitive esports, known for its complexity and skill level.

In 2024, Dota 2 remained a substantial contributor to the esports betting market. Its enduring popularity is primarily driven by The International (TI), one of the most prestigious esports tournaments globally. TI consistently boasts record-breaking prize pools, with the 2021 edition reaching an unprecedented $40 million, funded through community purchases. Viewership metrics further underline its appeal. The International attracts millions of live viewers annually, with peak concurrent viewership often exceeding 2.7 million.

Beyond The International, the Dota Pro Circuit (DPC) ensures a year-round competitive calendar, sustaining interest from fans and bettors alike. The game’s betting markets are diverse, offering options such as match-winners, map objectives, total kills, and even hero-specific performance props. Its popularity spans multiple regions, with a firm fan base in southeast Asia, China, and Eastern Europe. The combination of high-stakes tournaments, strategic depth, and global appeal cements Dota 2 as a top choice for bettors and operators looking to engage dedicated esports enthusiasts.

4. Valorant

Valorant, introduced by Riot Games in 2020, is a tactical first-person shooter that combines precise gunplay with a diverse cast of agents, each equipped with unique abilities. Its combination of mechanical skill and strategic use of abilities adds a depth that differentiates it from traditional shooters. Matches feature two teams of five players alternating between attacking and defending, with attackers aiming to plant a spike (bomb) while defenders work to stop them. The mix of strategy, teamwork, and fast-paced action has made Valorant a prominent esports title in just a few short years.

By 2024, Valorant had firmly established itself as one of the most popular esports for betting. The Valorant Champions Tour (VCT), Riot’s flagship tournament series, is central to this success. It offers a global competitive circuit that culminates in the Valorant Champions event. The 2024 edition of Valorant Champions achieved a peak viewership of 1.5 million, reflecting the game's rapidly growing audience. Prize pools for VCT events regularly exceed $1 million, attracting elite teams while boosting its profile.

Valorant's appeal for bettors lies in its tactical depth and varied gameplay outcomes, which create numerous betting opportunities. Wager types include match winners, map outcomes, round-by-round betting, and even agent-specific performance props. Furthermore, its global reach is expanding rapidly, with powerful fan bases in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. 

5. Call of Duty

Call of Duty (CoD) is a legendary first-person shooter franchise developed by Activision. It has a history spanning nearly two decades and is known for its fast-paced action and diverse game modes, including team-based objective matches and battle royale formats. CoD has continually evolved to maintain its relevance in the competitive gaming world. 

In 2024, CoD remained a significant player in the esports betting market, largely thanks to the Call of Duty League (CDL). Activision's flagship competitive series features franchised teams representing major cities worldwide, adding a regional rivalry element that resonates with fans. The CDL Championship, the league’s marquee event, achieved a peak viewership of 350,000 in 2024 and offered a prize pool exceeding $1.3 million, emphasising its enduring popularity.

For betting operators, CoD offers many wagering opportunities. These range from match winners and map-specific outcomes to player performance props, such as total kills or assists. The franchise’s massive audience, evidenced by over 100 million Warzone downloads, ensures a strong and engaged betting community. CoD’s popularity is particularly strong in North America, but its reach extends globally, with competitive leagues and events drawing interest from fans worldwide. Its mix of fast action, consistent content updates, and highly competitive tournaments ensures Call of Duty continues to thrive as a top-tier esports betting title.

6. Fortnite

Developed by Epic Games, Fortnite is a groundbreaking battle royale game that redefined the genre with its combination of survival mechanics and innovative building features. Players compete solo, in duos, or in teams to outlast opponents on an ever-shrinking map, all while gathering resources and constructing defensive or tactical structures. Its vibrant graphics, fast-paced gameplay, and accessibility have captured the imaginations of millions worldwide, making it a global phenomenon since its launch in 2017.

In 2024, Fortnite continues to hold a prominent position in the eSports betting market. One of its standout events, the Fortnite World Cup, remains a testament to its competitive appeal. The 2019 edition set the bar with a $30 million prize pool and peak viewership of 2.3 million; subsequent tournaments have sustained similar levels of engagement. While Fortnite lacks a traditional league structure like other esports titles, its focus on large-scale, standalone events generates substantial betting interest.

Fortnite’s betting opportunities are as diverse as its gameplay, with wagers available on tournament outcomes, player performances, and even unique in-game achievements. The game's popularity spans all the major continents, holding appeal among younger audiences and keeping it an exciting option for esports bettors and operators.

Betting Esports to Watch in 2025

Beyond the top-tier esports titles, several emerging games are capturing the attention of iGaming operators due to their growing competitive scenes and betting potential. For example, FIFA, developed by EA Sports, offers a virtual football experience that resonates with fans of the traditional sport. Its annual FIFA eWorld Cup attracts skilled players worldwide, providing diverse betting opportunities that mirror real-world football wagers.

Similarly, Overwatch, a team-based shooter from Blizzard Entertainment, combines fast-paced action with strategic depth. The Overwatch League's structured format and international team representation have cultivated a dedicated following, making it an attractive option for bettors. 

In addition, titles like Rocket League, which fuses soccer with gameplay featuring vehicles, and Rainbow Six Siege, known for its tactical team-based combat, are gaining traction in the esports betting arena. iGaming operators should monitor these games closely, as their expanding audiences and competitive structures present promising avenues for engagement and revenue growth.

Esports and Traditional Sports Unite in the Olympics

The integration of esports into the Olympic framework marks a significant milestone in bridging the gap between traditional sports and digital gaming. In July 2024, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced the creation of the Olympic Esports Games, with the inaugural event scheduled for 2025 in Saudi Arabia.

The initiative aims to engage younger audiences and reflect the evolving development of sports entertainment. By incorporating esports, the Olympics seek to uphold traditional values while embracing modern forms of competition. 

IOC President Thomas Bach emphasised that: 

This move (Olympic Esports Games) aligns with 

the digital revolution and highlights 

the committee's commitment to innovation.

For sports betting operators, the inaugural Esports Olympic Games presents substantial opportunities. The esports betting market has been expanding rapidly, with projections estimating its value could reach over $1 trillion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 11.60% during the forecast period 2023-2032.

This move is expected to boost growth further, attract a broader audience, and increase betting volumes. Moving forward, this means that iGaming operators can anticipate a surge in engagement and revenue as the Olympic Esports Games draw attention from both traditional sports fans and the gaming community.

Featured Games in the Olympic Esports Series

The Olympic Esports Series incorporates a select group of traditional sports paired with their virtual counterparts. While not all Olympic sports are included, this curated lineup focuses on disciplines with established esports adaptations.

Here's a list of the included sports and their corresponding esports titles:

• Archery (Tic Tac Bow)
  Tic Tac Bow offers a virtual archery experience, challenging players to demonstrate precision and timing. Its intuitive mechanics make it an engaging representation of the sport in the digital realm.

• Baseball (WBSC eBASEBALL™: POWER PROS)
  This game captures the essence of baseball, allowing players to pitch, bat, and field. Its detailed gameplay mirrors the sport's intricacies, providing a highly engaging experience.

• Chess (Chess.com)
  Chess.com brings the classic game to the digital stage, offering various modes and challenges. Its platform encourages strategic thinking, making it a valuable addition to competitive esports.

• Cycling (Zwift)
  Zwift merges physical cycling with virtual environments, enabling participants to race in realistic settings. It promotes fitness and competition, reflecting the endurance of traditional cycling.

• Dance (Just Dance)
  Just Dance transforms dance routines into interactive gameplay, where players mimic on-screen choreography. Its energetic format celebrates movement and rhythm and, in doing so, captures the spirit of dance.

• Motorsport (Gran Turismo™)
  Gran Turismo™ delivers a realistic racing simulation featuring meticulously detailed cars and tracks. Its emphasis on driving mechanics makes it a premier choice for motorsport enthusiasts.

• Sailing (Virtual Regatta)
  Virtual Regatta offers a comprehensive sailing simulation that challenges players to navigate courses and manage wind conditions. In essence, it authentically represents the strategic aspects of sailing.

• Shooting (ISSF Challenge featuring Fortnite)
  This unique event combines Fortnite's gameplay with shooting disciplines, testing a player’s accuracy and reflexes. In summary, it bridges traditional marksmanship with modern gaming elements.

• Taekwondo (Virtual Taekwondo)
  Virtual Taekwondo simulates martial arts combat, allowing players to execute techniques in a controlled environment. It highlights the discipline and skill inherent in the sport.

• Tennis (Tennis Clash)
  Tennis Clash is a fast-paced game in which players engage in matches that emphasise strategy and timing. Its accessible controls make it a compelling digital adaptation of the sport of tennis.

Implications for Betting Operators

The Olympic Esports Series will introduce significant opportunities for betting operators in 2025. By integrating these events, platforms can tap into the growing esports audience, which is typically younger, digitally native, and has a strong appetite for competitive gaming. 

But riding on this shift isn’t without its challenges. Understanding the unique aspects of esports, from complex game mechanics to ensuring fair play, requires a high degree of expertise and adaptation. Adding real-time betting options for fast-paced games will also push platforms to invest in the latest esports betting software and iGaming technology.

However, the rewards for operators willing to adapt could be substantial. The Olympics' credibility in esports brings legitimacy and trust to respective betting markets while potentially smoothing regulatory hurdles and increasing public confidence in esports betting. Beyond the direct revenue opportunities, moving into egaming verticals early positions operators to lead in a fast-evolving market, building trust and loyalty with a forward-thinking audience that could drive long-term growth. 

Engage a growing audience of esports fans with Altenar’s advanced iGaming platform, which includes a standalone esports lobby. 

Book a demonstration now to see how our sportsbook software can help you capture a greater market share of this exciting market.