eSports - Gaming.net Tue, 04 Jul 2023 18:20:44 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3 https://www.gaming.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/cropped-favicon123start-32x32.png eSports - Gaming.net 32 32 5 Best Esports Games in 2023 https://www.gaming.net/best-esports-games-in-2023/ Tue, 04 Jul 2023 18:20:44 +0000 https://www.gaming.net/?p=215634

In case you’ve yet to knuckle in on the world of Esports and its ever-evolving cash cow of high-paying tournaments, perhaps now’s the time to register an interest. It’d make sense, what with the competitive nature of the sport boasting prize pools of hundreds of thousands, and often millions of dollars, give or take. It’s […]

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In case you’ve yet to knuckle in on the world of Esports and its ever-evolving cash cow of high-paying tournaments, perhaps now’s the time to register an interest. It’d make sense, what with the competitive nature of the sport boasting prize pools of hundreds of thousands, and often millions of dollars, give or take. It’s the gift that keeps on giving, and if there’s one thing we’ve come to learn in 2023, it’s that the Esports scene is only just beginning to find its footing — and that there’s plenty more to come before the year’s out.

Like a lot of forms of entertainment, the world of Esports has its carousel of best-selling titles that raise the benchmark for others to live up to. For the sake of keeping it compressed and to the point, though, we’ve gone ahead and drafted the five that have made the biggest impact on the gaming front in the past six months or so. Curious to know more? Here are the Esports stakeholders that you should know about in 2023.

5. Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0

Beginner's Guide to Warzone

Call of Duty has every right to be hailed as one of the best first-person shooter franchises on the planet, more so in 2023, what with the battle royale Warzone 2.0 entry being a free-to-play game and all. Conceptually, it’s no different from its predecessor, though it does bring a new mode to the table — a loot-and-extract gig known as DMZ. Outside of that, the 2022 iteration brings all the action-packed components you’d come to expect from a traditional Call of Duty instalment — right down to the notorious Gulag.

As it stands, Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0 has four seasons under its belt, each of which have brought a variety of new maps, modes, weapons, and in-game features to the nexus. As far as its presence in the Esports community goes, the World Series of Warzone is where it’s at—an annual tournament that boasts millions in cash prizes. Is this likely to double in 2024? Absolutely. Is it the best Esports game on the current monopoly? Not by a long shot, although it does aim high.

4. Dota 2

Arguably one of the most competitive MOBA titles of its kind, Dota 2 fortifies its position as the all-seeing eye of Esports. It’s a little dated, sure, but the fact that it’s still able to host a huge network of tournaments on a year-round basis speaks volumes alone. Add the fact that the likes of the Majors boast prize pools in excess of $30 million, and you’ve got yourself one monster of an Esports division.

ln 2023, Dota 2 is more accessible than ever before, with hundreds of heroes to play from and a stepping stone progression system that’s “easy to learn, hard to master.” So, if you’ve the time to spare, then it’s definitely a kingdom worth checking into, if not for the first-hand experience, then for the staggeringly high prize pools that each tournament dishes out.

3. Overwatch 2

Free Online Multiplayer Games

It was only natural that Blizzard went on to develop a follow-up chapter to its universally acclaimed MOBA shooter. Built with all-new modes, maps, and weapons in mind, Overwatch 2 went down a real treat with those who longed to scratch that competitive itch. Also, the fact that it launched as a free-to-play game only made it that much more appealing to a wider audience. Just what Blizzard had intended, no doubt.

While Overwatch 2 continues to evolve and onboard new patches every two or three months, its Esports division, The Overwatch League, also moves to make itself known across the entire platform. And judging by how easy it is to pick up and play, we wouldn’t be that surprised to see the MOBA sport double in size before year’s end. As for what’s in store for the second chapter remains a mystery, though one thing is clear: Overwatch is here to stay, and fans couldn’t be more excited to see what’s on the horizon for its Esports counterpart in 2023.

2. Fortnite

Say what you want about Fortnite — Epic Games sure know how to draw in a crowd. And if it isn’t at one of its seasonal events, then it’s at one of the many, many Esports leagues that the creators host every year. Makes sense, what with some of its prize pools being anywhere in excess of a hundred thousand or more. Knowing this, and how the ever-evolving battle royale sensation attracts millions of players daily, it isn’t all that difficult to see why seasoned pros use it as a stepping stone to elevate their gaming careers.

Fortnite is the gift that keeps on giving, with new patches, events, weapons, and objectives being introduced to its world every week or so. There’s a lot to unpack with it, is what we’re saying, and if anyone is able to knuckle in on the plethora of content it has to offer, then there’s plenty of perks to be found, if not in a global tournament, then in a local match.

1. PUBG

PUBG is hands down the best and most influential Esports game in the world, with over 350 million users fleshing out its global roster and a whole catalog of high-paying tournaments under its belt. The fact that it’s available on consoles, PC, and mobile also makes it one of the easiest games to access, too. This is why so many high calibre teams flock to the arena to try their luck — if only to take a stab at the PUBG Global Championship, which assembles only the best of the best for a series of massive tournaments.

Before it was banned in India, PUBG held the record for being one of the most sought-after video games on the planet. Not a whole lot has changed since then, to be fair, with newcomers still looking to gain a foothold on the leaderboards for a shot at taking home prize pools that go as far as a couple of million. So, while PUBG being the best in the business is debatable, the general consensus is that it is a household choice for serious gamers, and definitely for those looking to cash out on some seriously hefty payouts.

 

So, what’s your take? Will you be tuning in to catch any of the above Esports tournaments in 2023? Let us know your thoughts over on our socials here.

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Richest Esports Players in 2023 https://www.gaming.net/richest-esports-players-in-2023/ Tue, 14 Mar 2023 15:43:48 +0000 https://www.gaming.net/?p=205548

The world of Esports has helped pave the way for countless gamers over the years, most notably Dota 2 users—seasoned professionals that have, at least as a community, developed the game's reputation as one of the best PvP IPs on the planet. And it's a profitable one, too, as made clear by The International, an event […]

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The world of Esports has helped pave the way for countless gamers over the years, most notably Dota 2 users—seasoned professionals that have, at least as a community, developed the game's reputation as one of the best PvP IPs on the planet. And it's a profitable one, too, as made clear by The International, an event that boasts some of the highest paying prize pools in gaming, period. It's within these events that, like a lot of popular Esports, well-traveled players earn their keep and, on occasion, millions of dollars worth of prizes.

In this day and age, it isn't all that unusual to spot a well-versed Esports champion with millions in winnings bolted to their name. But as far as the richest Esports players go—now that's another story, and one that'll no doubt make your mouth water and your urge to study the ropes on Dota 2 act up. If you're curious to know who makes up these numbers, though, then be sure to read on. Here are the richest Esports players in 2023, ranked by wealth.

5. Topias “Topson” Taavitsainen

Rising to fame through the Dota 2 network, Topias “Topson” Taavitsainen, a highly successful OG candidate and all-round team player, has accumulated a staggeringly high amount of money; $5.7 million, actually. However, it goes without saying that, while the 24-year-old has put in a great deal of work with the acclaimed organization, a huge amount of said earnings have been the product of a joint venture. Nevertheless, as it stands, the Finnish player stacks high as one of the best and, not to mention the richest gamers on the Esports monopoly.

Besides the monumental win at The International 2019, Taavitsainen has also lent his expertise to a total of 33 tournaments. And while the veteran may be on the inactive roster for OG this year, Taavitsainen is still very much present and accounted for on the board.

4. Sébastien “Ceb” Debs

Sébastien “Ceb” Debs, yet another former member of the OG firm, is currently ranked as the fourth richest Esports player. Rightfully so, given the fact that the retired ambassador for the organization has contributed to a whopping 67 tournaments. Of these 67, Debs earned the bulk of his winnings through The International 2018, and The International 2019, at which OG won first place. Apart from serving as a player, Debs has also coached the OG team for two consecutive years, between 2016 and 2018.

In spite of the former OG coach and champion retiring from the professional circuit back in 2021, Ceb is still very much regarded as one of the best Dota 2 players of all time. And, not to mention the fourth richest Esports player on the map—a title that comes loaded with a $5.8 million purse. Will this be toppled by another player by the end of 2023? Who knows. Either way, it's quite the benchmark to overcome.

3. Anathan “ana” Pham

Anathan, “ana” Pham is a—you guessed it—former member of the OG faction, and one of the primary champions on the Dota 2 circuit. Since making his formal debut back in 2013, the Australia-based pro has competed in a total of 26 paying tournaments, from which he has tallied up a generous $6 million in winnings. Again, these prizes mostly came from OG's wins at The International 2018, and The International 2019, out of which the team earned a total of $26 million.

Since briefly retiring from OG in 2021, Pham has made a return to the Dota 2 circuit as a champion under the T1 banner. As for what lies ahead for the seasoned pro is unclear, though one thing remains certain: a lot of rivals will be eyeing up the third spot on the board of richest Esports players in a bid to knock Pham from the pedestal.

2. Jesse “JerAx” Vainikka

Jesse “JerAx” Vainikka, a Finland-based veteran on the Dota 2 circuit, has made an impression on the Esports platform through The International, at which he and OG brought home the 2019 title. Outside of OG, Vainikka has played alongside some of the best and most influential teams in the world, including Team Liquid, and Evil Geniuses. As a result of the 68 global tournaments awarding cash prizes, the well-traveled player has scored just shy of $6.5 million in winnings, thereby becoming the second richest Esports player n the world.

Despite the brief retirement in 2020, Vainikka has retained a position on the Dota 2 community as both a champion and a coach under the Team Liquid banner. As for how the established pro will spend the forthcoming season remains unclear, though at any rate, it's doubtful that a bit of inactivity will rock the apple cart and sacrifice his title as second richest gamer.

1. Johan “N0tail” Sundstein

As of 2023, Johan Sundstein, otherwise known as N0tail, is the richest Esports player in the world, with an accumulated $7.2 million in overall winnings since 2012. Like his peers, the lion's share of these earnings have stemmed from Dota 2, in which the seasoned professional has competed in a grand total of 130 tournaments.

In The International 2019, N0tail played alongside OG, earning a first place ranking and a mouthwatering $3 million from the total prize pool. As it currently stands, N0tail is considered the undisputed titleholder in Esports, as well as the richest long-term professional on the board. Is this a position that'll stay put for the forthcoming year? It's hard to say at this point. But having said that, with prize pools gradually getting bulkier by the day, chances are N0tail will have his work cut out for him this season. We'll see, though.

 

So, what's your take? Let us know your thoughts over on our socials here or down in the comments below.

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Best Esports Teams in 2023 https://www.gaming.net/best-esports-teams-in-2023/ Mon, 06 Mar 2023 23:02:37 +0000 https://www.gaming.net/?p=204932

In light of the Valorant LOCK//IN and Capcom Cup IX tournaments drawing to a close, we thought we'd take a gander back at some of Esports' most valued teams, milestones, and prize pools to date. Specifically, the teams that have made the greatest impression in the last eleven or so months. As it's still early days yet, […]

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In light of the Valorant LOCK//IN and Capcom Cup IX tournaments drawing to a close, we thought we'd take a gander back at some of Esports' most valued teams, milestones, and prize pools to date. Specifically, the teams that have made the greatest impression in the last eleven or so months.

As it's still early days yet, we can't say for certain which Esports organizations will be the most likely to claim the top spots on the bracket. Nevertheless, we do have a vague idea of which teams will be worth watching when certain key events come to pass. So, who's worth watching in 2023, and which events should you keep a note of besides The International? Well, here's how we'd draw the line from the statistics we've recently accrued.

5. Natus Vincere (NAVI)

Coming in at fifth, Natus Vincere (abbreviated as NAVI) is a well-traveled European Esports team with a lofty 650 tournaments under its belt, from which it has accrued over $20 million in winnings in a little over a decade. Recently, NAVI fought to claim a final spot at Valorant LOCK/IN in Brazil, which led to an admirable semifinalist ranking and a $40K prize. Although not on par with its two finalists, collectively the worldwide team has rallied forth and conquered numerous other events since its 2009 inception.

Hailing from Ukraine, the twenty-something team has placed its marker on a myriad of top-shelf games, most notably Counter-Strike, Dota 2, and PUBG. As it stands, the organization is stacking up as one of the best in the Esports domain, and not to mention a faction that, quite frankly, any spectator or veteran should keep a firm eye on as 2023 draws out.

4. Team Spirit

Team Spirit is an organization that pours the majority of its effort into the likes of Dota 2, from which it has accumulated over $20 million in winnings alone. But outside of the highly acclaimed RTS phenomenon, the Russia-based firm has also spent a significant amount of time ejecting sweat, tears, and wins in Counter-Strike. The fact that they've only competed in 190 tournaments and have nearly always ranked in the top three, of course, makes them a force to be reckoned with.

With the DPC EEU 2023 Tour finished—an event that saw Team Spirit waltz away with the second spot on the board—the organization will now devote its talents and resources to The International 2023, a concluding tournament in the Dota Pro Circuit. Is it worth following? A hundred per cent, yes—especially if you're interested in seeing some of the greatest Dota 2 players in their absolute element.

3. Evil Geniuses

Evil Geniuses is another organization that has fingers in so many pies that, in all honesty, it's sort of tough to keep track of its roadmaps. That said, with Dota 2 being its go-to RTS, you can nearly always find them hovering near the apex of the leaderboards, if not in first, then in the top five of any given Pro Circuit. Matter of fact, Evil Geniuses recently cleared the BTS Pro Series Season 13, bagging themselves a $16K prize and an extra leg on the Dota 2 monopoly.

It's early days yet, but with Dota 2 and a whole bunch of other Esports favorites laying out the foundations for yet another prosperous year of competitive entertainment, Evil Geniuses will have a lot to bite into these next nine months. Needless to say that, of all the up-and-coming teams with a foothold in the scene, Evil Geniuses will be one to keep an eye out for.

2. OG

Given OG's relatively low attendance record on the Esports circuit, it's astonishing to see that such a team has actually accumulated over $37 million in winnings to date. This alone makes the organization one of the best-performing Esports teams of all time. Plus, with a win-to-lose ratio so incredibly one-sided, it really is no wonder they've been labelled as one of Dota 2's most feared factions.

This year, OG will be setting its sights on The International, an annual event that boasts one of the highest prize pools in Esports. Fact is, as the team has already won the 2018 and 2019 events, spectators will be keeping a solid eye on the organization over the forthcoming season. Will OG shape up for a hat trick, or will it run it right down to the wire? Either way, 2023 will be a huge year for the firm, and one that will no doubt bring it a thread of consecutive wins.

1. Team Liquid

With a smidgen under 2,500 tournaments under its belt, Team Liquid has managed to hold a stake on the Esports plateau for the best part of two decades now. In this time, the globally recognized organization has tallied up a mouth-watering $43 million in winnings, which has stemmed from a myriad of games including Dota 2, Counter-Strike, and StarCraft. As it stands in 2023, the team has more than 20 rosters covering a multitude of platforms, effectively making it one of the largest and most popular collectives in the history of Esports.

In 2023, Team Liquid, as an organization, spans over 30 countries, with its primary players hailing from the United States, Germany, Finland, and Bulgaria. Is this likely to expand over the course of the year? Absolutely. In fact, with toes already dipped in a wide selection of new waters, it's hard to imagine Team Liquid losing track of its foothold in the rankings any time in the next decade, let alone in 2023.

 

So, what's your take? Are you surprised to see any of the above five in this list? Let us know your thoughts over on our socials here or down in the comments below.

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Fnatic Wins Valorant LOCK//IN 2023 https://www.gaming.net/fnatic-wins-valorant-lock-in-2023/ Sun, 05 Mar 2023 08:49:56 +0000 https://www.gaming.net/?p=204809

Esports team Fnatic has come up trumps against finalist LOUD at Valorant LOCK//IN, securing a $100,000 prize and an extra seat at the EMEA Masters Tokyo. After three long and grueling weeks of one-on-one bouts, Valorant LOCK//IN has finally come to an end. Having started with 32 of the best teams around the world, the […]

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Esports team Fnatic has come up trumps against finalist LOUD at Valorant LOCK//IN, securing a $100,000 prize and an extra seat at the EMEA Masters Tokyo.

After three long and grueling weeks of one-on-one bouts, Valorant LOCK//IN has finally come to an end. Having started with 32 of the best teams around the world, the ever-popular tournament concluded with one nail-biting deadlock event—a battle that cemented its position in Valorant's most heated highlights in its three-year run. And boy, what a final it was to watch.

Between Fnatic and LOUD, the two finalists pushed the competition all the way to the fifth map, with Fnatic claiming the first two, and LOUD snatching the equalizer via the third and fourth. All of this culminated in one final stand-off in Icebox, which led to a tidy 14-12 win for Fnatic. Oh, and in Overtime, no less. Here's how the maps played out:

Fnatic Vs LOUD

  • Ascent: 13-8
  • Fracture: 13-7
  • Split: 9-13
  • Lotus: 8-13
  • Icebox: 14-12

With the first tournament under their belts, Fnatic will now go on to secure an additional seat at EMEA Masters Tokyo, which will take place June 11th to 25th. In the meantime, a hearty congratulations is well and truly in order—to Fnatic, LOUD, and every other team that gave it their all in one of the game's biggest tournaments in the history of Esports.

If you're interested in checking out some more Esports events, you can check out a roadmap for 2023 here.

 

So, what's your take? Will you be tuning in to catch the Masters Tokyo event? Let us know your thoughts over on our socials here or down in the comments below.

 

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5 Best-Paying Esports Games in 2023 https://www.gaming.net/best-paying-esports-tournaments-in-2023/ Wed, 01 Mar 2023 13:02:51 +0000 https://www.gaming.net/?p=204524

Since 2020, the realm of Esports has only risen from strength to strength, effectively fortifying its position as one of the best billion-dollar empires in modern media. 2022 alone, believe it or not, raked in $100 million in prize pools—and that doesn't even graze the surface of the sports entertainment market as a whole, either. […]

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Since 2020, the realm of Esports has only risen from strength to strength, effectively fortifying its position as one of the best billion-dollar empires in modern media. 2022 alone, believe it or not, raked in $100 million in prize pools—and that doesn't even graze the surface of the sports entertainment market as a whole, either. It makes sense then, that insiders are claiming that the Esports subsidiary is shaping up to hold a monumental value of $3 billion by the end of 2028.

Of course, 2022 was only the beginning of a new chapter in the book of flourishing Esports tournaments. Needless to say that, in spite of the cooldown period following the pandemic, it delivered what it set out to do on all accounts, using its resources to establish some of the biggest and most profitable events in the world. That said, if you're curious to know which Esports events typically pay out the most, then read on.

5. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive

Since 2012, the beloved tactical first-person shooter known as Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (or CS:GOfor most) has conjured up well over $134 million in total prize pools, essentially making it one of the highest-paying Esports games of all time. And truth be told, this isn't likely to change anytime soon, either, mostly down to the fact that its user base and presence on Twitch is nearly always expanding. In 2023, this global sensation will see in the ESL Pro League's seventeenth season, an event that will serve as a gateway to IEM Katowice, Dallas, and Cologne 2023 and their shared $2.25 million prize pool.

It goes without saying that CS:GO and its impenetrable network of award-winning teams and staggeringly high prize pools are partly the reason for Esports' sudden surge in popularity these past few years. Since 2020, in fact, ESL Pro League has tripled its prize pool, leaving behind the fairly large $225k for a much more appealing $850k. Fact is, this is only likely to increase as the years march forward—and it continues this year with Season 17 between March 1st and April 2nd.

4. PUBG

Between PUBG and its mobile counterpart, PUBG Studios has in its possession one of the biggest cash cows in modern gaming, a fact that is fortified by its seriously high Esports prize pools. In 2022, for example, a $3.5 million purse was accrued for the 32-team Global Championship event, which later went on to reward the final team with a little over $1 million in total winnings.

Since its 2017 debut, PUBG has held just shy of 554 tournaments which, when combined, has amounted to $52 million in total winnings. In 2023, PUBG Studios will host not only its annual two-part Global Series, but the Nations Cup, as well as the Global Championship, which will take place over the course of November and December later this year.

3. Fortnite

Fortnite players in 2022

Fortnite may have fallen from grace ever since it decreased the global prize fund, but even in 2023 it still holds a spot on the monopoly, as it will continue to do so for as long as its player base supports it. The fact is, though, 2022 only saw a “disappointingly mediocre” $1 million prize pool, which was at the FNCS Invitational. Granted, this wasn't exactly the sight for sore eyes fans of the battle royale game wanted, what with the 2019 World Cup boasting a staggering $30 million cash cow.

Anyway, in spite of the zig-zag patterns Fortnite tends to chalk up on an annual basis, the fact is the game is still just as popular as it once was, and its net worth as an Esports platform is only likely to increase over the course of 2023, too. Is it worth checking out this year? Absolutely — if not for the prize pools, then for the die-hard fan base that make it the powerhouse gaming phenomenon that it is.

2. Arena of Valor

Given the fact that Arena of Valor is a mobile game, it does come as a slight surprise that its associated Esports tournaments have unnaturally high prize pools. An example here would be the Honor of Kings International Championship 2022, an event that went on to accrue a $10 million prize pool for just 16 global teams. Seeing as this was indeed based around a mobile title, it did make the winning team's $3.5 million payout a serious eye-opener for those seeking to plant roots in Esports' portable domain.

Arena of Valor is only on the rise, too, with an even higher prize pool expected to drop at the next global event. Knowing that, and how high of a stake the game has on the Esports monopoly, now would perhaps be the best time to invest some level of interest in its ever-evolving world.

1. Dota 2

Of course, anyone who knows the Esports market will likely know of Dota 2, or at least be aware of its ludicrously high prize pools and fan base. On average, The International, an annual event that sees all the greatest teams band together to battle it out over two round-robin brackets, the prize pool tallies up to a rosy $19 million, give or take. This is usually crowdfunded via Valve's Dota 2 community battle pass, and is essentially spread between the 20 teams, regardless of their final ranking.

Funnily enough, The International 2022 was actually in receipt of one of the lowest-paying prize pools in the history of the event. Fact is, in 2021 that same event posted a solid $40 million prize pool, which led to the finalist (that being Team Spirit) receiving a whopping $18 million in winnings. With all of that in mind, it'd be foolish to pass up the opportunity to get involved with The International 2023. If you want an Esports tournament that boasts high stakes and even higher payouts, then Dota 2 is the one and only game you'll need to set your eye on this year.

 

So, what's your take? Will you be tuning in to watch any of the above five tournaments? Let us know over on our socials here or down in the comments below.

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Valorant LOCK//IN 2023 Finals: Teams, Dates & Where to Watch https://www.gaming.net/valorant-lock-in-2023-finals-teams-dates-where-to-watch/ Sun, 26 Feb 2023 13:37:08 +0000 https://www.gaming.net/?p=204236

In just two weeks, Valorant LOCK//IN has single-handedly whittled 32 competing teams down to 10, signalling the final few bouts for the throne that will occur between March 2nd and 4th. On March 4th, São Paulo's Valorant LOCK//IN tournament will crown its reigning champions, which will result in a nifty $100,000 bounty out of the $500,000 grand […]

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In just two weeks, Valorant LOCK//IN has single-handedly whittled 32 competing teams down to 10, signalling the final few bouts for the throne that will occur between March 2nd and 4th.

On March 4th, São Paulo's Valorant LOCK//IN tournament will crown its reigning champions, which will result in a nifty $100,000 bounty out of the $500,000 grand total. Before this comes to pass, the event will see two drawn-out days of quarter-finals matches, which will see the four remaining teams battle it out for the final two spots on the bracket. Curious to know more? Here's what you need to know.

Twitch Drops

If you're one for claiming the Twitch Drops, then you'll be pleased to know that Valorant LOCK//IN will be presenting a myriad of cosmetics, skins, and in-game perks for the duration of the Finals. You can claim them by simply connecting your Valorant account to Twitch, and then streaming the matches between March 2nd and 4th via the platform.

Where to Watch

You can watch the Valorant LOCK//IN Finals in a number of ways, though the most convenient is through Twitch. Alternatively, you can catch the matches over on the official YouTube handle here.

Teams

100 Thieves Asuna, bang, stellar, Derrek, Cryocells
Cloud9 leaf, Xeppaa, vanity, yay, Zellsis, qpert
Evil Geniuses C0M, Boostio, jawgemo, BcJ, Ethan, Reformed, Apotheon
FURIA qck, mwzera mazin, dgzin, Khalil, kon4n
KRÜ NagZ, xand, Daveeys, Melser, axeddy, Klaus
Leviatán kiNgg, Tacolilla, Shyy, Nozwerr, Mazino, keznit
LOUD aspas, Saadhak, Less, cauanzin, tuyz
MIBR jzz, frz, heat, Murizz, rglm, txozin
NRG s0m, FNS, crashies, victor, ardiis, Thwifo
Sentinels TenZ, zekken, Sacy, paNcada, dephh, SicK
BBL AsLanM4shadoW, Turko, QuotinerX, Brave, SouhcNi, aimDLL
Fnatic Boaster, Derke, Alfajer, Leo, Chronicle, kamyk
FUT mojj, qw1, MrFaliN, Muj, qRaxs, ATA KAPTAN
Giants Fit1nho, hoody, Cloud, rhyme, nukkye
KCorp ScreaM, Nivera, xms, Shin, Newzera
KOI koldamenta, Sheydos, trexx, Wolfen, starxo
NAVI ANGE1, Shao, Zyppan, SUYGETSU, cNed
Heretics keloqz, Boo, Mixwell, zeek, AvovA
Liquid soulcas, Jamppi, nAts, Redgar, Sayf, dimasick
Vitality ceNder, BONECOLD, MOLSI, Destrian, Twisten
DetonatioN Suggest, Reita, xnfri, Anthem, Seoldam, takej
DRX stax, Rb, BuZz, MaKo, Zest, Foxy9
Gen.G Meteor, k1Ng, iNTRO, TS, eKo, Secret
Global Esports AYRIN, T3xture, Bazzi, Monyet, SkRossi, Lightningfast
Paper Rex f0rsakeN, Benkai, mindfreak, Jinggg, d4v41
RRQ EJAY, 2ge, Emman, Tehbotol, fl1pzjder, Lmemore
T1 ban, xeta, Munchkin, Sayaplayer, BeomJun, Carpe
Talon Crws, foxz, sushiboys, garnetS, jitboyS
Team Secret BORKUM, Jremy, DubsteP, JessieVash, invy, lenne
ZETA DIVISION Laz, crow, Dep, TENNN, SugarZ3ro, barce
EDward Gaming Haodong, CHICHOO, nobody, ZmjjKK, Smoggy
FunPlus Phoenix AAAAY, BerLIN, TZH, WudiYuChEn, Yuicaw, OMEGA

 

So, what's your take? Are you rooting for any particular team this year? Let us know over on our socials here or down in the comments below.

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North America Lead Alpha Bracket at Valorant LOCK/IN https://www.gaming.net/north-america-lead-alpha-bracket-at-valorant-lock-in/ Thu, 16 Feb 2023 06:31:24 +0000 https://www.gaming.net/?p=203463

North American teams Cloud9, NRG Esports, and Evil Geniuses have advanced to the next round at 2023's Valorant LOCK/IN event. The Alpha bracket of the Valorant LOCK/IN is on the precipice of seeing its first eight leading teams rally forth to the Round of 16, a deadlock 1v1 that will go on to determine the best teams fit […]

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North American teams Cloud9, NRG Esports, and Evil Geniuses have advanced to the next round at 2023's Valorant LOCK/IN event.

The Alpha bracket of the Valorant LOCK/IN is on the precipice of seeing its first eight leading teams rally forth to the Round of 16, a deadlock 1v1 that will go on to determine the best teams fit for the quarter finals. In light of this, North America clearly seems to be making a statement, as proven by the 2-0 victories against international teams KOI, Paper Rex, and Team Heretics. As for whether or not this will culminate in a homecoming parade for the region, of course, is still anybody's guess.

It's early days yet, as the Grand Finals won't actually commence until the round-robin event has played its entire Round of 32 and Round of 16 brackets, neither of which will end until Feb. 27th, at which point the Omega matches will reveal their final teams. Until then, it's still a somewhat level playing field—though one that North America clearly has some influence over at the time of writing.

Masters Tokyo 2023 Edges Nearer

In case you missed it, the winning team at Valorant LOCK/IN will automatically secure a spot for their respective region at the Masters Tokyo event, which is scheduled to take place this coming June. At present, ten of the league's best teams will advance to the Masters, whereas the eleventh additional spot will only come to the team that conquers LOCK/IN. So, evidently there's a lot hanging on the line, and it goes without saying that every team over in São Paolo will be wanting a slice of it right about now.

 

So, what's your take? Are you rooting for any teams in particular? Let us know over on our socials here or down in the comments below.

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Esports 2023: All Major Events & Where to Watch Them https://www.gaming.net/esports-2023-all-major-events-where-to-watch-them/ Mon, 16 Jan 2023 02:37:52 +0000 https://www.gaming.net/?p=200642

Each and every year, the competitive gaming scene of Esports evolves its level of competition to new unforeseen heights. The gameplay get's faster, reactions are quicker, and each game evolves and pushes the boundaries of what's possible at gaming's highest professional level. 2023 will be no different. There will be many memorable, game-changing moments, and […]

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Each and every year, the competitive gaming scene of Esports evolves its level of competition to new unforeseen heights. The gameplay get's faster, reactions are quicker, and each game evolves and pushes the boundaries of what's possible at gaming's highest professional level. 2023 will be no different. There will be many memorable, game-changing moments, and of course a handful of cringe-worthy ones. Nonetheless, you don't want to miss out on any of the action and laughter. That's why we've compiled all the major Esports events taking place in 2023 across the top ten competitive games, so you know where to watch them and what's at stake.

10. Rocket League

5 easiest esports to learn

If you've ever played Rocket League, you understand the amount of precision and skill that goes into the game. That's why watching pro players in the Rocket League Championship Series (RLCS) Esports, doing ariel passes and goals, never gets old. And when stakes are at their highest during the RLCS Majors and Championship series, amazing plays and great gaming moments are inevitably made. That's why you don't want to miss out on this year's action, because “This is Rocket League!”

You can catch all the 2023 major RLCS Esports events on the RLCS Twitch Channel.

  • RLCS Winter Major – April 6-9
  • RLCS Spring Major – July 6-9
  • RLCS World Championship – Aug. 4-13

9. Street Fighter V

Street Fighter 6 is due to come to our screens on June 2, 2023. This will mark another exciting Street Fighter title that will surely switch up the intricacies in the meta yet again. However, this year's events most likely won't feature the new title at the competitive level till next year. That means this will be the last year to watch the best Street Fighter 5 gameplay there is to date. And it will all be happening at the two major Esports events in 2023, taking place below.

You can watch the Capcom Cup on their Twitch Channel here and on the EVO Japan 2023 Twitch channel.

  • Capcom Cup IX – Feb. 14-19
  • EVO Japan 2023 – March 31 – April 2

8. Call of Duty League

Call of Duty has been one of the most renowned FPS franchises of the last two decades. While competitive play still took place, there was a long wait before they finally established the official Esports league, Call of Duty World League. The year 2023 is their fourth official year, and while the first Major has already concluded, with the NY Sublimers taking the title, there are still four more to go, and here's where you can catch them.

You can catch all the Call of Duty League (CDL) Esports major events on their Twitch channel here.

  • CDL Major 2 – Feb. 2-5
  • CDL Major 3 – March 9-12
  • CDL Major 4 – April 13-16
  • CDL Major 5 – May 25-28

7. Rainbow Six Siege

Speaking of renowned FPS games, we have Rainbow Six Siege. This tactical 5v5 breach and clear has gained popularity at the pro level due to its insanely critical gameplay. In the pro scene, players will literally peak angles at ridiculously fast speeds, or be holding a bombsite from a bullet-sized hole in the wall. The map knowledge and teamplay it takes to win games are utterly impressive and why it's worthwhile to watch the major Rainbow Six Siege Invitational Esports event in 2023 below:

You can watch the Six Invitational on their R6EsportsNA Twitch Channel here.

  • Six Invitational – Feb. 7-19

6. Apex Legends

Major Esports Events in 2023

It's no secret battle royales have been on the rise over the years. One game that rode its wave of popularity is Apex Legends. Notably, it was the first battle royale to introduce a hero-shooter style into the genre by giving players a roster of different Legends, each with their own ability to change the flow of typical gunfight gameplay. The games are relatively new to the Esports scene, originally arriving in 2020, but its major events are surely on the come up and you don't want to miss the action arriving in 2023.

You can watch all the 2023 Apex Legends Global Series major Esports events on their Twitch channel here.

  • ALGS Split 1 Playoffs – Feb. 2-5
  • ALGS Split 2 Playoffs – June 8-11
  • ALGS Championship – Summer 2023

5. Valorant

Major Esports Events in 2023

Valorant's another hero-shooter title, though being the first one to introduce the style to 5v5 tactical shooter style games. It's already amassed a huge fan base for the game's competitive scene and evidently why you don't want to miss its major Esports events coming up in 2023.

You can watch all the 2023 Valorant major Esports events on their Twitch channel here.

  • Valorant LOCK/IN – Feb. 14 – March 4
  • Valorant Masters 2023 – June TBD

4. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CSGO)

Major Esports Events in 2023

If you've been watching Esports for some time, or been gaming in general, CSGO needs no introduction. It is by far one of the biggest FPS games worldwide. Every year its Esports scene sees hundreds of thousands of fans catch its majors on Twitch and pack thousands of people into stadiums for live competitions. And, 2023 is gearing up for another year of exciting tournaments, full of insane clutches and flicks. Here are all the notable ones you'll want to catch:

You can watch all the 2023 CSGO major Esports events on ESL CSGO's Twitch channel here.

  • IEM Katowice – Jan. 31 – Feb. 12
  • Blast.tv Paris Major – May 8-21
  • IEM Dallas – May 29 – June 4
  • IEM Cologne – July 25 – Aug. 6

3. League of Legends

Major Esports Events in 2023

League of Legends is one of, if not, the biggest MOBA in the world. The argument would be with DOTA 2, which may not have many players (due to it being an immensely harder MOBA) but still, it holds a higher prize pool for its championship. Nonetheless, League of Legends players are on a level of their own when it comes to individual and team play. It's why it's the one Esports game whose championship continues to break viewership records year after year. So, if you want to add to the view count, here are the majors you'll want to catch in 2023.

You can watch all the 2023 League of Legends Esports major events on the Riot Games Twitch channel here.

  • Mid-Season Invitational – May 2-21
  • World Championship – October-November TBD

2. Super Smash Bros. Melee and Ultimate

Major Esports Events in 2023

When it comes to platform fighters, Super Smash Bros. holds the almighty throne for the best game in the genre. There are two different Esports styles of the game, Melee, and Ultimate, with the former being the harder style to play. Regardless of which one you're into, the competition level is fierce with players having to make split-second decisions. There's one big tournament for Super Smash Bros. Melee this year, and here are the details for it.

VGBootcamp hosts most of the major Super Smash Bros. tournaments on their Twitch channel here, or you can catch them on Beyond The Summits Twitch Channel.

  • Genesis 9 Jan. 20-22
  • Smash Ultimate Summit 6 – March – TBD
  • Collision 2023 – March 10-12
  • Low Tide City 2023 – May 13-14
  • Smash Summit 15 – June – TBD
  • Get On My Level 2023 – July 21-23
  • Riptide 2023 – Sept. 8-10

1. Dota 2

Major Esports Events in 2023

DOTA 2, the biggest MOBA of all time also holds the biggest Esports major every year, known as the Invitational. Its prize pull this year is over a swift $20 million, marking 2023 to be another great year for the event.

You can catch The Invitational on the dota2ti Twitch Channel here.

  • The Invitational 2023 – October TBD
So, what's your take? Are there other majors we missed that we should know about? Let us know in the comments below or over on our socials here!

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5 Most Toxic Gaming Communities of 2022 https://www.gaming.net/5-most-toxic-gaming-communities-of-2022/ Sun, 24 Jul 2022 02:33:38 +0000 http://www.gaming.net/?p=187633

It's a known fact that the online world doesn't exactly run on sunshine and rainbows. Needless to say, we've seen our fair share of toxic communities in online multiplayer games just as much as the next casual gamer. It's built into the blood of nearly every PvP game in existence, and it's an obstacle nobody […]

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It's a known fact that the online world doesn't exactly run on sunshine and rainbows. Needless to say, we've seen our fair share of toxic communities in online multiplayer games just as much as the next casual gamer. It's built into the blood of nearly every PvP game in existence, and it's an obstacle nobody can really avoid. It's a hostile playground, and toxicity, whether we like it or not, comes with the territory.

Just last year, a survey shed light on the most toxic video games of 2021. To our surprise, the titles we assumed were strewn with kind-hearted folk ended up being the weightiest anchors. Today, the standings remain motionless, meaning the developers have done little to abolish the harassment that plagues the lobbies. And if you're curious to know which games still bear the lead paperweights, then allow us to clue you in. Here are the most toxic gaming communities right now.

 

5. League of Legends

League of Legends may hold its own as one of the most successful battle arena games ever conceived, but that doesn't alter the fact that its online community is littered with power-hungry trolls. This has been the case ever since it first came about in 2009, and not a great deal has been done to fix it in, well, a decade. And that's a crying shame, as the game itself is booming with only the finest MOBA qualities.

Of course, any game with a global backing is sure to attract some level of unwanted attention. League, however, sports a lighthouse for a chassis, and it shows. The bottom line is, it's blinding toxicity is the reason for the rapid decline in new players. Riot Games, however, continue to let the ships plough into it, making weary tourists afraid to swim in its waters.

 

4. FIFA

fifa vs pes

FIFA has established itself as one of the most competitive video game series on the planet. But with great competition, however, comes an overwhelming amount of hot-headed players, many of whom use online matchmaking games to channel their anger. Because of this, the series has garnered a pretty poor reputation for being a stain on the sporting front.

For many, FIFA isn't just a game, but a portal to a whole other world. A world that, like most Esports games, revolves around leaderboards and statistics. It's a means to an end for some, which of course makes the pressure of winning a whole lot higher. Still, it doesn't excuse the questionable behaviour that many players sport. And the fact is, newcomers would much rather stay away from the big leagues than entertain them.

 

3. Call of Duty: Vanguard

Call of Duty is notorious for having one of the worst player bases in gaming, something that is exacerbated by the savage Esports events that are anything but friendly. Vanguard really is no different, which is a hard pill to swallow given the fact that fans of the series have been hounding its makers to banish the toxicity for a fair few years now.

The fact is, Vanguard retains the lion's share of the bitter critiques, with reports of harassment, threats, and cyber bullying forever making rounds all over the globe. For these reasons, a rough 42% of players either abandon the game altogether, or revert back to the game's offline campaign to get their kicks. But tell us one soul who buys Call of Duty for its campaign mode. It's predominantly online, as it always has been, which is why it's all the more frustrating that nothing is being done to squeeze the severs of all its toxicity.

 

2. Dota 2

If you're wanting to stream an engaging Esport, then you needn't look any further than Dota 2 to get your quality fix. As it's played by some of the industry's biggest pro gamers, its frequent tournaments often boast ludicrously high prize pools. Sure enough, that's why the vast majority tune in: to see which team conquers the monopoly and claims the lion's share of the score. But playing it for yourself, on the other hand, is a different story, and not a kind-hearted one, either.

Of course, it's no secret that Dota 2 is an incredibly demanding game. This harsh learning curve, though, has led to some players using competitors as virtual punching bags in the heat of the moment. And if there's one thing Dota 2 isn't short on—it's moments. It's a playground flooded with a lot of amped up players, and it isn't very often you'll be greeted with praise and polite conversation.

 

1. Valorant

valorant 2022

Well, there you have it; Valorant, the most toxic video game community of 2022. Unfortunately, this isn't the first strike for Riot Games' free-to-play first-person shooter. In fact, surveys considered the game the most toxic of not only 2020, but 2021, too. For this, a hat trick has officially been scored, making it one of the most toxic communities to ever embrace the system.

So, what's Riot Games doing to prevent the rapid incline in toxicity? Well, a few bits and pieces, really. Though, going by a report made a little while back, Valorant muted 400,000 players, and served up 40,000 bans. And that was just the statistics from a single month alone. Today, the developer continues to battle the brutal community by implementing automatic detection systems in each session. And it works, for the most part, anyway. Nevertheless, it is still considered a worldwide issue among gamers, giving Riot Games and its moderators one heck of a headache.

 

So, what's your take? Do you agree with our top five? Let us know over on our socials here or down in the comments below.

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5 Easiest eSports Games (2022), Ranked https://www.gaming.net/5-easies-esports-to-play-2022/ Sun, 10 Jul 2022 05:03:42 +0000 http://www.gaming.net/?p=186667

Over the last few years, esports have expanded and become a global phenomenon. Today, it's a multi-million dollar industry and players from all over the world participate in the competitive gaming scene. Each year, millions of players try to break into the esports scene. Making it big in esports is not a piece of cake. […]

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Over the last few years, esports have expanded and become a global phenomenon. Today, it's a multi-million dollar industry and players from all over the world participate in the competitive gaming scene. Each year, millions of players try to break into the esports scene.

Making it big in esports is not a piece of cake. It needs years and years of practice and dedication (very much like sports). However, your efforts also depend on what type of game you want to play. For instance, RPGs and MMORPGs like Dota and League of Legends have a steeper learning curve. These games tend to be complex with characters, their abilities, and gameplay.

Meanwhile, esports games like Fortnite and Rocket League are easy to learn. They have not-so-complicated gameplay and a lenient learning curve. Even though these games are easier to play, they are hard to master.

Top 5 Easiest Esports Games in 2022, Ranked

Here's the list, ranked in the order of their learning curve (slightly tough to easy).

5) Overwatch

YouTube Video

An online FPS with a colorful ambiance and multiple game modes, Overwatch is the perfect blend of a gunfight and fun. The game features mechanical variety, having different characters with varying abilities against each other.

The game has produced players like Sinatra, JJonak, Jake, etc., in the past. However, it seems to be losing its position in eSports over time. There are multiple reasons for this –

  • Direct competitor Valorant, gaining momentum.
  • Lack of significant updates in the game.
  • Drop in popularity.

Although not to worry, the game has not entirely died yet. Some upcoming tournaments are- ESL One Stockholm Major, Mid-Season Invitational, PGL Major Antwerp, and IEM Katowice.

Honestly, the game is one of the toughest on the list. New players need a significant learning curve, while experienced ones need regular practice.

 

4) Counter-Strike: Global Offensive

YouTube Video

The fast-paced FPS has barely any ‘story’ but is a treat for gamers who love gunplay without unnecessary drama. Players get to choose from several maps and game modes. They can also customize guns and agents through micro transactions in the steam store.

Counter-Strike is over a decade old, but still holds an active competition in the eSports leagues. International players from different countries compete against each other in tournaments like PGL Major and IEM Rio Major. Players like Shroud, TenZ, and Shahzm have earned fame through the eSports CSGO platform.

The game is not easy to play but one can learn quickly. Platforms like YouTube and Twitch are crowded with CS GO players to date. You can simply hop on to one of the videos and learn the game within an hour.

 

3) Fortnite

fortnite esports

Globally popular title Fortnite offers a battle royale experience to gamers. You will be playing against a hundred others on the same map with a vast option of item loot. One needs to collect loot, manage inventory and build towers to defend against other players.

Pertaining to a massive fan base, Fortnite has an active eSports scene. However, for several reasons, the game has lost many active streamers. Famous personalities like Matsoe and Zarby have taken their leave and moved to other games. The fans have negative feedback towards the FNCS (Fortnite Championship Series).

Fortnite is relatively easy because of the presence of bots that behave similarly to real players. They make it easy to survive longer in a match.

 

2) Hearthstone

YouTube Video

Hearthstone is a fantasy-themed card game, where players go against each other with strategic moves, outdoing the opponent’s deck. The game offers several modes, from 1v1 to team battles and several others. The game has its roots in the Warcraft mythology of the same developer.

Hearthstone has a huge eSports presence where global players go against each other. Players like Liooon and Trump have made their way through the game, gaining popularity. The prize payouts go as high as 20 million.

Some of the famous tournaments this year are- ESL One Stockholm Major, Mid-Season Invitational, PGL Major Antwerp, and IEM Katowice.

However, this year the game has bid goodbye to its grand masters, making way for new members in the community. This is a big move for the franchise. The game has a casual approach, making it easy to learn. However, the mastery lies in the strategies of a player.

 

1) Rocket League

rocket league

You have definitely played football before, but not with cars. Rocket League is a football game with players on cars with jet engines.

Being a tier 2 game, the Rocket League has an active eSports presence. The game’s flagship event is the Rocket League Championship Series, which has been expanding and prize pool ever since. Famous names like GarrettG, Jstn, and Chicago are associated with the game.

The game has an easy outlandish ambiance with no complexity in controls. One can follow the tutorials and get used to the game in no time. However, it’s not easy once you start playing against experienced players!

Most of these games are easy to learn and tough to master. Just get a friend who plays one of these, learn from him and start playing with him regularly.

 

You might be interested in: 5 Toughest Esports Games in 2022, Ranked

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5 Toughest Esports Games in 2022, Ranked https://www.gaming.net/5-toughest-esports-games-in-2022-ranked/ Fri, 08 Jul 2022 17:18:28 +0000 http://www.gaming.net/?p=186361

When it comes to competitive Esports, almost every game is difficult in and of itself. After all, the games that have reached the Esport level have done so because they required extreme amounts of concentration and teamwork. However, when viewed through a magnifying glass, some games demand far more from their players than what is […]

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When it comes to competitive Esports, almost every game is difficult in and of itself. After all, the games that have reached the Esport level have done so because they required extreme amounts of concentration and teamwork. However, when viewed through a magnifying glass, some games demand far more from their players than what is visible on-screen or at events. As a result, they are considered to be some of the toughest Esports games, in a profession where the bar for the difficulty is already at an extremely demanding level.

It's safe to say that you have to adore these games in order to be a professional at them. Because the players who are competing at them on the Esport level have probably already surpassed the 10,000 hours required for mastery. Yet they are still learning ways they can improve and re-master their game. That's because there are hundreds of variables at play when it comes to the five toughest Esports games of 2022. So let's investigate what precisely makes these games so difficult and demanding.

 

5. Rainbow Six Siege

By the looks of it, CS:GO has been dominating the FPS scene for the better of 12 years. However, there's another game lying in the midst of competitive FPS that demands much more from its players. That game is no other than Rainbow Six Siege. And while we will say both games require extreme amounts of skill when it comes to aiming, Rainbow Six Siege demands much more when it comes to strategy, map knowledge, and team tactics.

Being a close-quarters breach and clear, map knowledge in Siege is vital to a team's success. This is due to the fact that players must be completely aware of the layout of the room or space they are entering before breaching a door, window, or wall. As there quite literally is hundreds of angles they can be shot from. Even from under tables across the room, or from a pinky-sized hole in the wall. That's why players must spend hours on end studying the map and remembering crucial choke points. On top of their in-game training.

 

 

4. League of Legends

One

One of the most notable Esprot games of all time is League of Legends (LoL). The popular MOBA is consistently growing itself, which is most likely due to how adaptive and constantly changing the game is. By that, we mean, with its characters and items. Behind the button mashing and flurry of abilities that get cast in a LoL match, hundreds of different percentages, statistics, and factors are at play, all of which are working against one another. And if you want to be a professional LoL player at the Esports level, you must know how each of them works with and counters each other.

Now we wish we could say this was one broad scope that can be studied, however, it's much more particular than that. Players must know the science of each item, and in-game element, for each of their own characters, and all the others on the field. Players can constantly combine their abilities to deal more damage or anticipate when they won't be as effective. This also depends on the items players have, so you must be aware of what all players possess.  It's a constant game of back and forth strategy, on top of the wildly fast thinking, you must conjure at a moment's notice.

 

 

3. Super Smash Bros. Melee

Toughest Esports games

Super Smash Bros is one of the most popular competitive games of all time. However, Super Smash Bros. Melee's release in 2001, a few years after the original game's release, was what really launched its entry into the world of competitive video games. It offered a much more challenging and unforgiving version of the game, that for some reason its players loved. However, if you know Smash players, they are all about the challenge.

To start off, there are hundreds of button combinations available just to perform the game's most elementary movements and attacks. Which, if you want to be successful you must know to a tee. Additionally, the timing of your attacks—even down to the tenth of a frame—is absolutely crucial. Just a fraction of a second off could see you getting eliminated. Now we are talking in fictitious slow-mo time, but in all reality, this must be realized in real-time. It's not as easy as done and requires hours upon hours of mastering each player and their skillset in the game.

 

 

2. Starcraft II

Toughest Esports games

If you have the chance, watch a Starcraft II player play the game with a mouse and keyboard cam. Upon doing so, you'll quickly realize why Starcraft II is one of the toughest esports games. In the game, there are three different races to play, Protoss, Terrain, and Zerg. Each of which has its own special units and attacks. Players choose a race to play and are dropped into a 1v1 style map. From there must build their army from the ground up, in offense, defense, and upgrades.

This is done by giving a series of commands, so since you're in a race with your opponents, the timing and speed at which you do so is crucial. Because of this, players started using hotkeys, which function somewhat like keybind shortcuts for quick command delivery. Furthermore, the game has hundreds, if not thousands, of commands that you must memorize and execute quickly. We could go on and on about the other requirements that StarCraft II has in order to be good, but this is just one of the key factors that make the game so challenging.

 

 

1. Dota 2

Toughest Esports games

There is a reason that the International, the most prestigious and lucrative Esports tournament in the world results from DOTA 2. That's because, its without a doubt, one of the toughest Esports games, and has respectfully held that standing amongst players and viewers for a long time. Being a MOBA, unlike LoL which sees champions set for certain lanes and roles, DOTA 2 on the other hand, opens up that choice to the player and their character.

Each character can be built in a variety of ways, play a multitude of roles, and consequently have a major impact on the game, even with the smallest of details. This opens up an extreme amount of strategy when it comes to team composition and team plays. It truly adds a new dimension to the game to take into account and a new level of difficulty. Because of this, mastering and learning each character, item, abilities, and how they stack and counter a much wider root than you would see in LoL.

 

So, what's your take? Do you agree with our top five? Are there other toughest Esports game that we should know about? Let us know in the comments below or over on our socials here!

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Og Overcomes the Odds With Victory at the Stockholm Major https://www.gaming.net/og-overcomes-the-odds-with-victory-at-the-stockholm-major/ Tue, 07 Jun 2022 14:39:14 +0000 http://www.gaming.net/?p=183831

OG came into the 2022 Stockholm Major as one of the strongest teams. People assumed that they were coming in as the team that dominated the Western Europe qualifiers. Unfortunately, captain Mikhail ‘Misha’ Agatov and coach Evgenii ‘Chuvash’ Makarov had to face visa issues. The absence of both Misha and Chuvash was significant for OG […]

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OG came into the 2022 Stockholm Major as one of the strongest teams. People assumed that they were coming in as the team that dominated the Western Europe qualifiers. Unfortunately, captain Mikhail ‘Misha’ Agatov and coach Evgenii ‘Chuvash’ Makarov had to face visa issues.

The absence of both Misha and Chuvash was significant for OG because they were the brains behind the operation. They were the two main minds during every hero draft and Misha was the backbone for their laning phase since he was the hard support that ensured the game went smoothly with his warding and positioning.

Thankfully, former OG superstars Sébastien ‘Ceb’ Debs and Johan ‘N0tail’ Sundstein were ready to step up. Ceb took over Misha’s support role while N0tail served as the interim coach. This was a big change for OG because they were used to being known as Misha’s team.

OG was not a favourite in the esports betting markets heading into the event due to these circumstances. However, OG managed to overcome the odds yet again as they won the Stockholm Major over TSM.FTX in the grand finals. Now, let’s look into what led to their surprising victory.

Ceb steps up as the stand-in support

During OG’s The International-winning runs in 2018 and 2019, Ceb was primarily known as an offlaner. Before that, he was OG’s coach and the primary strategic mind behind the scenes.

At this event, Ceb was thrust into the hard support role which he has not played for a long time. He had not played the role for a long time which was why some people were surprised that he stood in for Misha and not N0tail who is a natural position five.

Despite the doubt, Ceb managed to be the gamechanger for OG. His performance on Windranger was one of the biggest reasons behind OG’s victory. His usage of WR’s Shackleshot and Gale Force turned the tide of multiple games which led to many victories.

OG’s young stars continue to prove themselves

Carry player Artem ‘Yuragi’ Golubiev was only 19 years of age when he was recruited to OG while Bozhidar ‘bzm’ Bogdanov and Ammar ‘ATF’ Al-Assaf were only 16 years of age when they joined the team in November 2021.

They lived up to the hype as the youngsters proved that they were not just promising players but they are among the best in the world. ATF, in particular, dominated almost every match as he showcased his supremacy over the other offlane players at the Major.

Taiga emerges as a world-class playmaker

While Tommy ‘Taiga’ Le was already a known player during his time with Alliance and Team Liquid, he truly emerged as one of the best position four players in the world at the Major. His performances on heroes like Snapfire, Enigma, and Viper proved that he is not only an elite playmaker but he works well with his teammates too.

OG is a top contender heading into TI11

This was an amazing performance from the entire OG squad. While Ceb performed at the highest level and N0tail was helpful as the coach, they still credit both Misha and Chuvash for helping them prepare for the drafts. The strategic duo were not present at the Major itself but their influence was still there as they continued to cement their value to OG.

If you are partaking in esports betting, you should have OG pencilled in as one of the favourites for TI11 in Singapore. The European team has already won a Major and they are looking for more success in the future with a complete lineup.

The post Og Overcomes the Odds With Victory at the Stockholm Major appeared first on Gaming.net.

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How to Find Local Esports Tournaments https://www.gaming.net/how-to-find-local-esports-tournaments/ Mon, 23 May 2022 23:16:45 +0000 http://www.gaming.net/?p=182923

If you're ready to start competing in Esports, going to local tournaments is one of the best ways to do so. It not only gives you experience, but it also allows you to meet other individuals in your city who share your enthusiasm for the game. With that being said, finding local Esports tournaments isn't […]

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If you're ready to start competing in Esports, going to local tournaments is one of the best ways to do so. It not only gives you experience, but it also allows you to meet other individuals in your city who share your enthusiasm for the game. With that being said, finding local Esports tournaments isn't always so straightforward. That's why we want to make it easier with this guide on how to find local Esports tournaments.

 

Finding Local Esports Tournaments

 

  • Reddit/Discord/Facebook Groups

The best way to find out about Esports in your local area is through social media groups. Almost every major city across the world has a group on Reddit, Discord, and Facebook, designated for covering Esports within your city! Just simply google, “City nameReddit/Discord/FacebookGame titleEsports“. This is the best way to find local Esports tournaments but it may require a little bit of digging.

 

  • Ask Nearby Colleges

More and more Universities and Colleges are now including Esports, as a part of their college sports, making it more accessible. That means there are constant events, tournaments, and meet-ups being held by the college, team, and even student clubs. You just need to call and research if campuses near you have an Esports team for your favorite game. If it doe's, it most likely is hosting events and tournaments that you can join!

 

If you're having no luck finding Esports tournaments locally, you can still join in on the competitive fun online. Battlefy and Challonge are a couple of websites that let players and companies find or host tournaments for Esports. Typically there's money up for grabs, and it's a great way to meet people in the community. It may not be local, but it's definitely worth checking out if you have no other option.

 

Did this guide help? Do you have other tips and tricks on how to find local Esports tournaments? Let us know in the comments below or over on our socials here!

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How to Get Involved in Esports as a Broadcaster https://www.gaming.net/how-to-broadcast-esports/ Sun, 22 May 2022 14:30:17 +0000 http://www.gaming.net/?p=182775

Being a professional player isn't the only way to be involved in Esports. You can be right with the action as an Esports broadcaster. Broadcasting, referred to as shoutcasting in the world of Esports, is a great way to get involved in Esports for the games you love. Whether you want to do play-by-play or […]

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Being a professional player isn't the only way to be involved in Esports. You can be right with the action as an Esports broadcaster. Broadcasting, referred to as shoutcasting in the world of Esports, is a great way to get involved in Esports for the games you love. Whether you want to do play-by-play or color commentary, you're probably wondering how to start shoutcasting Esports? Well, we have just those answers for you in this guide on how to broadcast Esports.

 

Tips and Tricks for Becoming a Broadcaster

 

  • Make a Portfolio, Grab an Audience

Starting your casting career with a portfolio of work that literally speaks for itself is a huge advantage. It's also a great way to practice and improve your skills when an opportunity presents itself. You can begin by doing your own shoutcasting over professional VODs on Twitch or YouTube. That way, you have the means to practice, build a portfolio of work, and can develop a reputation for yourself.

 

  • Apply for Low-Tier Leagues or Local Tournaments

You, like professional Esports players, must work your way up the rankings. A great way to start building your resume, alongside your portfolio, is reaching out to second or third-tier leagues for the games you want to shoutcast for. You can also do so by pitching to local tournaments in your area and asking to shoutcast for events. This is where your portfolio of covering VODs will come in helpful.

 

What works best is to study and learn from the best. Thousands of insider tips, from experienced shoutcasters, are on the Broadcast.gg website. Joining their Discord and introducing yourself, and what you want to do, is another excellent approach to getting your name out there. You never know, it could help you land your first casting job!

 

Did this guide help on how to broadcast Esports? Have any other tips and tricks for becoming an Esports broadcaster? Let us know in the comments below or over on our socials here!

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How to Get Involved in Esports as a Pro Gamer https://www.gaming.net/how-to-get-involved-in-esports-as-a-pro-gamer/ Fri, 20 May 2022 18:46:20 +0000 http://www.gaming.net/?p=182781

If you're one of the top players in your favorite game, it could be time to make it a career by becoming an Esports pro. You may have previously considered the idea, but were left with many questions about how to proceed. That's because becoming an Esports pro isn't a conventional process as there isn't […]

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If you're one of the top players in your favorite game, it could be time to make it a career by becoming an Esports pro. You may have previously considered the idea, but were left with many questions about how to proceed. That's because becoming an Esports pro isn't a conventional process as there isn't a customary path. However, that's why we're here to make it simple with this guide on how to get involved in Esports.

 

How to Become an Esports Pro Gamer

  • Tryout For a Team

The best way to get directly involved in Esports within your game is by trying out for a team. However, this isn't referring to the teams that are going to the majors. There are tons of lower-level Esport leagues with teams that are a great stepping stone into the world of Esports. It's a great way to make connections, and the best way to be scouted by higher-level teams.

 

  • Enter Tournaments

Entering tournaments is a fantastic opportunity to assess how well you stack up against the competition. And by winning a couple, you will be making a well-known name for yourself amongst the game's top players. The best way is to do some digging within your game's community on Twitter, Discord, and Reddit, as news about tournaments is constantly being shared.

 

  • Start Streaming

One of the biggest ways to get closer to becoming an Esports pro is by making a name for yourself. One of the best ways to do that is by streaming. This can be done on many platforms, but Twitch and Youtube are the go-to. By streaming, you are exposing yourself to making connections within your game's community. Plus, you may never know who's watching and might just think you have, what it takes to be a pro.

 

So, What's your take? Did this guide help? have any other suggestions for getting involved in Esports that we should know about? Let us know in the comments below or over on our socials here!

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