Global E-Sports Market Insights and Forecast to 2028

Global E-Sports market size, valued at USD 777.1 million in 2021 is projected to expand at a CAGR of 15.1% over 2022-2028, and reach a valuation of USD 2141.1 million by the end of the forecast period 2028. Key drivers of the esports market include the rising popularity of video games, mobile gaming, and rapid advancements in gaming technology. E-sports (also known as electronic sports, esports, eSports) is a form of competition using video games.

In addition to it, huge investments, and sponsorships, by key market players will drive the growth of the esports market during the forecast period. Further, the advent of online streaming platforms and changes in consumer entertainment preferences will boost the market growth in the coming years.

The popularity of video games and mobile gaming is increasing rapidly. The easy access to the internet, rising smartphone penetration, and advancements in gaming technology are contributing to the growth of the industry. Facial recognition, gesture control, high definition displays, and advanced graphics are some of the features which attract consumers to video games. Thus the expanding popularity of video games and technological advancements will drive the growth of the esports market during the forecast period.

The Esports industry will grow tremendously in the coming years. Key market players such as Riot Games and other companies are investing heavily in the form of licensing, ticket sales, advertising, merchandising, and broadcast rights. Huge gaming tournaments in the form of independent sports leagues are being held with international cash prizes. Further, a new breed of professional video gamers is emerging who either compete individually or in teams on a global scale through live events. Thus the increasing investments by key market players will create lucrative opportunities for the growth of the esports market during the forecast period.

Online streaming platforms such as youtube, twitch, and social media allow viewers to watch their favorite e-sport players compete live against each other. The rise in income levels and growing internet access have enabled viewers to watch online gaming tournaments live on their screens. Players can interact directly with their fans through these platforms or in person at tournaments. People around the world are changing their viewing patterns and esports has emerged as a full-fledged industry on its own. Thus the advent of online streaming platforms and change in users’ viewing habits will accelerate the growth of the esports market in the future.

Based on region, North America is expected to provide lucrative opportunities for growth in the esports market share due to the presence of key market players, huge investments in the esports industry with game creators, leagues, TV networks, and other stakeholders. However, the APAC region is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period due to increasing internet penetration and smartphone use and the gradual rise of the esports industry.

Based on type, the MOBA segment is expected to provide lucrative opportunities for growth in the esports market share during the forecast period as MOBA(Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) has different elements such as fighting, collection of items, leveling up, etc which draws the attention of players quickly thereby propelling demand.