What is esports competitive gaming?
Last reviewed March 1, 2026
Quick Answer
Esports is organized competitive video gaming with professional players, teams, leagues, and tournaments. Popular esports include League of Legends, Dota 2, CS:GO, and Fortnite.
Detailed Answer
Esports (electronic sports) is competitive video gaming at a professional level. Just as traditional sports have organized leagues and professional athletes, esports features: Professional players who compete full-time, often as part of teams or organizations. Tournaments with prize pools reaching millions of dollars. Live events with spectators watching in arenas and online via streaming. Broadcast commentary and analysis similar to traditional sports. Training regimens involving hours of daily practice. Popular esports genres include MOBAs (League of Legends, Dota 2), first-person shooters (Counter-Strike, Valorant), battle royales (Fortnite), fighting games (Street Fighter), and sports simulations (FIFA, NBA 2K). While professional esports requires elite skill and dedication, anyone can participate casually through online matchmaking and amateur tournaments.