Esports, the electronic sports phenomenon, has taken the world by storm, evolving into a new form of competitive entertainment. Players from around the globe go head-to-head in video games and online computer titles, ranging from classic series to the latest online releases.
The 2010s witnessed a surge in esports tournaments worldwide, offering substantial cash prizes to champions. Today, esports plays a pivotal role in the gaming industry, with numerous professional players either forming teams or securing sponsorships.
But what’s contributed significantly to esports’ meteoric rise is the ever-growing viewership. Platforms like YouTube and Twitch have become hotspots for fans to watch their favorite players in action.
Now, let’s explore the top 5 esports games that cater to both beginners and seasoned gamers alike in Japan
- Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO)
Genre: First-Person Shooter (FPS)
Platforms: Windows, Mac, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Linux
CS:GO, a sequel to the iconic Counter-Strike series, launched in 2012 and quickly became one of the world’s most renowned FPS esports games. As of August 2020, it boasts a staggering 20 million players globally. The prestigious Counter-Strike: Global Offensive Major Championships (Majors), sponsored by Valve, have been captivating audiences since 2013.
- Fortnite
Genre: Third-Person Shooter (TPS)
Platforms: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X
Fortnite, introduced by Epic Games in 2017, has become a sensation in the survival and battle royale genre. Offering three game modes – Save the World, Battle Royale, and Creative – it’s Fortnite Battle Royale that truly shines. Up to 100 players battle it out, showcasing unique elements like building structures alongside traditional gunplay. The Fortnite World Cup, with a jaw-dropping $100 million prize pool from Epic Games, has been captivating players since 2019.
- Splatoon 2
Genre: Third-Person Shooter (TPS)
Platform: Nintendo Switch
Nintendo’s Splatoon 2, released in 2017 for the Nintendo Switch, has charmed players with its unique take on third-person shooting. Players control Inklings, human-squid hybrids, engaging in colorful ink-based warfare. With five battle modes, 4v4 team battles, over 100 weapons, and 40 battlefields, Splatoon 2 has become a fan favorite. The international Splatoon 2 championships at ES 2018 and 2019 garnered significant attention, leaving fans eager for the next installment.
- League of Legends (LoL)
Genre: Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA)
Platforms: Windows, Mac
Riot Games’ League of Legends, abbreviated as LoL, revolutionized the MOBA genre. Players team up to control champions and vie against another team, aiming to breach the enemy’s base. The game’s international and domestic tournaments culminate in the grand League of Legends World Championship, featuring a prize pool exceeding $2 million annually.
- Dota 2
Genre: Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA)
Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux
Developed by Valve in 2013, Dota 2 is a renowned multiplayer online battle arena game. It boasts a player base of over 7.7 million in the esports arena, as of August 2020. Teams of 10 players, divided into Radiant and Dire, compete to destroy the enemy Ancient. With a roster of over 100 characters to choose from, the game has gained a massive following. The International, Dota 2’s largest international competition, has been held worldwide from Cologne to Stockholm since 2011.
Esports offer something for everyone, whether you’re a fan or aspire to be the next esports superstar. Dive into these exciting worlds and choose the game that suits your style.