FAQ About Esports: Becoming Player

League of Legends (LoL): A multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game where teams of champions with unique abilities compete to destroy the opposing team's Nexus.

Dota 2: Another MOBA game with a similar format to League of Legends, featuring a wide variety of heroes with distinct skills and roles.

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO): A first-person shooter where two teams, terrorists and counter-terrorists, compete in rounds to complete objectives or eliminate the opposing team.

Overwatch: A team-based first-person shooter with a diverse cast of heroes, each with unique abilities, designed for objective-based gameplay.

Fortnite: A battle royale game where 100 players fight to be the last person or team standing, combined with building mechanics.

Call of Duty series: Various titles in the Call of Duty franchise are popular for their fast-paced and competitive multiplayer modes.

PUBG (PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds): A battle royale game where players parachute onto an island, scavenge for weapons, and fight to be the last one standing.

Valorant: A tactical first-person shooter with character-based abilities, combining elements of traditional FPS games with unique hero abilities.

Rainbow Six Siege: A tactical shooter that emphasizes strategy and teamwork, where players engage in close-quarters combat and objective-based gameplay.

StarCraft II: A real-time strategy game where players control one of three factions and compete to build armies, manage resources, and outmaneuver opponents.

Rocket League: A unique blend of soccer and vehicular mayhem, where players control rocket-powered cars to score goals.

FIFA series: The popular soccer (football) simulation game has a competitive scene in esports.

Super Smash Bros. series: A popular fighting game series with a competitive scene, featuring characters from various Nintendo franchises.

Identify Your Preferences:

• Consider the genre: Determine whether you prefer first-person shooters (FPS), multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA), real-time strategy (RTS), sports, or other genres.
• Theme and aesthetics: Choose a game with a theme and visual style that you enjoy, as you'll likely spend a significant amount of time playing it.

Assess Your Skills and Playstyle:

• Identify your strengths: Assess your gaming skills and identify the types of games where you excel.
• Playstyle: Consider whether you prefer fast-paced action, strategic thinking, teamwork, or solo play. Different games cater to various playstyles.

Research the Esports Scene:

• Explore popular esports titles: Research the current popular esports games and their competitive scenes.
• Watch tournaments: Watch esports tournaments for different games to get a feel for the gameplay, strategies, and community.

Consider the Community:

• Community engagement: Evaluate the communities surrounding different games. A supportive and active community can enhance your gaming experience.
• Esports events and leagues: Check the availability of tournaments and leagues for the games you're interested in. A vibrant competitive scene can provide more opportunities for growth.

Evaluate Longevity and Updates:

• Longevity: Consider the longevity of the game and whether it has a consistent player base. Some games have a longer lifespan in the esports scene than others.
• Developer support: Look for games with active developers who regularly update and balance the game. Ongoing support can keep the meta fresh and maintain player interest.

Personal Enjoyment:

• Play for enjoyment: Ultimately, choose a game that you genuinely enjoy playing. Esports requires dedication and practice, so enjoying the game is crucial for long-term commitment.

Set Realistic Goals:

• Define your goals: Determine whether you aim to play casually, competitively, or professionally. Your goals will influence the level of commitment required.

Experiment and Explore:

• Try different games: Experiment with different games to see which ones resonate with you. Don't be afraid to explore various genres and playstyles.

Seek Advice:

• Consult experienced players: Talk to experienced esports players or coaches for insights into different games. They may offer valuable perspectives based on their experiences.

Stay Updated:

• Keep abreast of trends: Esports is dynamic, and the popularity of games can change. Stay informed about emerging titles and evolving trends in the gaming community.

Mechanical Skills: Ability to execute precise and accurate movements, especially in games requiring aiming and timing. Quick response to in-game stimuli, such as enemy movements or unexpected events.

Game Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of the game's rules, mechanics, and interactions. Awareness of the in-game environment, including key locations, objectives, and potential threats.

Teamwork and Communication: Clear and concise communication with teammates regarding strategies, enemy positions, and objectives. Collaborative play and understanding team roles and synergies.

Endurance and Physical Health: Maintaining endurance for extended gaming sessions and tournaments. Prioritizing physical health through regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep.

Emotional Resilience: Managing stress and pressure, especially during high-stakes competitions. Bouncing back from defeats and using them as learning opportunities.

Streaming and Content Creation: Engaging with an audience through streaming and creating entertaining content. Utilizing social media and streaming platforms to market your personal brand.

No, formal education is not a strict requirement to become a professional esports player. Esports is a unique field where success is primarily determined by individual skill, dedication, and performance in competitive gaming. Many professional players have achieved success without pursuing traditional academic paths.

• Play Regularly
• Focus on Reaction Time Exercises
• Practice Aim Training
• Warm-Up Exercises
• Hand-Eye Coordination Games
• Customize In-Game Settings
• Vary Your Gaming Experience
• Healthy Lifestyle
• Stay Hydrated
• Reduce Input Lag
• Focus and Concentration Exercises
• Take Breaks
• Visual Training
• Eye Exercises

The average age of professional esports players can vary depending on the game and the specific esports title. Esports has seen players of various age groups compete at the highest levels, and the average age may be influenced by factors such as the game's release date, the time it takes to master the game, and the overall development of the esports scene.

That being said, it has been observed that many professional esports players tend to start their careers at a relatively young age, often in their late teens or early twenties. This is because reaction time, motor skills, and the ability to dedicate significant time to practice are typically at their peak during these years.

The amount of time you should dedicate to practice each day as an aspiring esports player can vary based on factors such as your goals, the game you're playing, your current skill level, and other commitments you may have (school, work, etc.).

Regular, consistent practice is more effective than sporadic, intensive sessions. Aim for a routine that you can sustain over the long term. Focus on the quality of your practice rather than just the quantity. Purposeful and focused practice sessions can be more beneficial than simply spending a large amount of time without specific goals.

Define specific, achievable goals for each practice session. Whether it's improving a specific skill, learning a new strategy, or refining your teamwork, having clear objectives helps you stay on track. Pay attention to your physical and mental well-being. It's important to avoid burnout and injuries, so take breaks, stretch, and ensure you're maintaining overall health.

Mix up your practice routine. Include time for individual skill development, team practice (if applicable), and reviewing your own gameplay or professional matches. Consider your other commitments, such as work, school, or family responsibilities. Find a balance that allows you to pursue your esports goals without neglecting other important aspects of your life.

Different games may require different levels of commitment. Some esports titles may demand more practice time due to their complexity or rapidly changing metagame.

Increase your practice time leading up to important tournaments or competitions. This can help you refine strategies, improve specific skills, and enhance your overall performance.

Esports competitions typically have varying age restrictions, and the rules can differ depending on the specific game, tournament, or organizer. The age restrictions are often determined by factors such as the content of the game, legal requirements, and the policies set by the tournament organizers or game developers.

Gaming PC or Console:

• A powerful gaming PC or console that meets the system requirements of the game you're playing. Many esports titles are PC-based, so having a reliable gaming PC with a high frame rate is often essential.

Monitor:

• A high-refresh-rate monitor with low input lag is crucial for smooth gameplay. Many professional players prefer monitors with refresh rates of 144Hz or higher.

Gaming Mouse:

• A responsive gaming mouse with customizable buttons and a comfortable grip. Choose a mouse that suits your preferred grip style and sensitivity settings.

Gaming Keyboard:

• A mechanical gaming keyboard with responsive switches. Mechanical keyboards are preferred by many players for their tactile feedback and durability.

Gaming Headset:

• A quality gaming headset with a clear microphone and comfortable ear cups. Communication is essential in team-based games, so having a reliable headset is crucial.

Mouse Pad:

• A large, high-quality mouse pad that provides a smooth surface for accurate mouse movements. Some players prefer extended mouse pads to accommodate lower sensitivity settings.

Gaming Chair:

• A comfortable gaming chair that provides proper support during long gaming sessions. Ergonomics are important for preventing discomfort and potential health issues.

Webcam and Microphone:

• If you plan to stream your gameplay or participate in online tournaments, a good webcam and microphone are essential for communication and content creation.

Controller (for Console Gaming):

• If you're playing on a console, a high-quality gaming controller is necessary. Some esports titles on consoles allow the use of third-party controllers.

Internet Connection:

• A reliable and high-speed internet connection is crucial for online gaming. Consider a wired Ethernet connection for stability, especially in competitive settings.

Gaming Desk:

• A spacious and ergonomic gaming desk to accommodate your gaming setup. Ensure it provides enough space for your peripherals and has cable management options.

Optional: Second Monitor:

• Some players find it beneficial to have a second monitor for tasks like monitoring chat (if streaming), watching tutorials, or keeping track of information without alt-tabbing out of the game.

Skill Development:

• Dedicate time to improving your skills in the game you want to compete in. High-level gameplay and proficiency in key game mechanics are crucial.

Achieve a High Rank:

• Climb the ranks in the game's competitive mode to demonstrate your skill level. High ranks attract the attention of teams looking for talented players.

Participate in Tournaments:

• Join online and local tournaments to gain experience, showcase your abilities, and potentially catch the eye of team scouts or managers.

Create a Presence on Social Media:

• Build a strong presence on social media platforms, especially those relevant to gaming (Twitter, Twitch, YouTube, etc.). Share highlights, achievements, and engage with the gaming community.

Content Creation:

• Consider creating content related to the game you play, such as streaming on platforms like Twitch or creating YouTube videos. This can help increase your visibility and attract the attention of teams.

Networking:

• Attend gaming events, conferences, and tournaments to network with other players, coaches, and team managers. Establishing connections within the esports community can open doors.

Join Gaming Communities:

• Participate in online forums, Discord servers, and other gaming communities related to the game you play. Engage in discussions, share your knowledge, and make connections.

Seek Out Team Tryouts:

• Keep an eye on team announcements and tryout opportunities. Many esports teams periodically hold tryouts to discover new talent.

Create a Player Resume:

• Develop a player resume that highlights your gaming achievements, competitive history, and any relevant skills or contributions to the gaming community.

Contact Team Managers:

• Reach out to team managers or organizations directly. Provide them with your player resume, showcase your skills, and express your interest in joining their team.

The role of a coach in esports is multifaceted and extends beyond traditional sports coaching. Esports coaches play a crucial role in helping teams and individual players improve their skills, develop strategies, and maintain a positive and focused mindset.

• Analyzing individual players' skills and providing guidance on how to improve specific aspects of their gameplay, such as aiming, positioning, and decision-making.
• Developing and implementing team strategies and tactics for various in-game scenarios. This includes map-specific strategies, role assignments, and overall game plans.
• Reviewing recorded gameplay (replays) to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. Coaches use this information to tailor their coaching strategies.
• Researching and scouting opposing teams to understand their playstyles, strategies, and individual player tendencies. This information helps in formulating counter-strategies.
• Facilitating effective communication among team members. Coaches work on improving team coordination, callouts, and shot calling during matches.
• Providing emotional support and maintaining team morale, especially during challenging periods or after losses. Mental resilience is crucial in competitive gaming.
• Enhancing players' overall game awareness, including map awareness, timing, and understanding the meta. This helps players make informed decisions during matches.
• Conducting individual and team reviews to discuss performance, identify areas for improvement, and set goals for future development.

Yes, it is possible to make a living solely from playing esports, but it's important to note that achieving this goal can be challenging and highly competitive. The esports industry has grown significantly, and professional players can earn income through various channels.

Maintain Good Posture:

• Sit with a straight back and avoid slouching. Keep your feet flat on the ground, and position your monitor at eye level to reduce strain on your neck and back.

Take Regular Breaks:

• Stand up, stretch, and move around every hour. Prolonged periods of sitting can contribute to health issues, so incorporating regular breaks is essential.

Eye Care:

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This helps reduce eye strain and fatigue.

Proper Lighting:

• Ensure your gaming area is well-lit to reduce eye strain. Avoid glare on your screen and consider using ambient lighting to create a comfortable environment.

Ergonomic Equipment:

• Invest in ergonomic gaming furniture and accessories. A comfortable chair, keyboard, and mouse can contribute to better posture and reduce the risk of discomfort or injury.

Hand and Wrist Exercises:

• Perform hand and wrist exercises regularly to prevent strain or injuries associated with prolonged gaming sessions. Stretch and move your fingers, wrists, and forearms.

Stay Hydrated:

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Dehydration can affect concentration and cognitive function, so it's essential to maintain adequate fluid intake.

Balanced Nutrition:

• Eat a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients. Focus on whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to support overall health.

Regular Exercise:

• Incorporate regular physical exercise into your routine. This can include cardiovascular activities, strength training, or flexibility exercises. Exercise is crucial for maintaining physical health and preventing sedentary-related issues.

• Lack of Consistent Practice
• Neglecting Physical Health
• Overlooking Mental Health
• Ignoring Communication Skills
• Failure to Adapt
• Isolating Yourself
• Not Seeking Feedback
• Setting Unrealistic Expectations
• Neglecting Team Dynamics
• Ignoring Personal Branding
• Underestimating the Importance of Education
• Disregarding Mental Resilience
• Relying Solely on Raw Talent
• Ignoring the Business Side
• Being Overly Impulsive

Mental resilience is critically important in esports. The ability to maintain a strong and positive mental state under pressure, adversity, and challenging situations is a key factor that can significantly impact a player's performance and overall success.

• Esports competitions, especially at the professional level, often involve high-pressure situations. Mental resilience helps players stay composed, make sound decisions, and perform at their best under pressure.
• Every player faces setbacks, whether it's losing matches, facing criticism, or dealing with personal challenges. Mental resilience enables players to bounce back from setbacks, learn from failures, and maintain focus on improvement.
• Esports requires consistent performance over the course of long tournaments or seasons. Mental resilience helps players maintain a high level of focus and play consistently, even during extended gaming sessions.
• The esports landscape is dynamic, with games undergoing updates, patches, and meta shifts. Mental resilience allows players to adapt quickly to changes, learn new strategies, and stay competitive in evolving environments.
• Players often face criticism, whether from teammates, opponents, or the community. Mental resilience helps players process criticism constructively, use it as a tool for improvement, and avoid letting it negatively impact their confidence.
• Sustaining concentration during long gaming sessions is essential. Mental resilience enables players to stay focused, minimize distractions, and perform at their peak even during extended periods of play.
• In team-based esports, mental resilience is crucial for building and sustaining positive team dynamics. It helps players communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and maintain a supportive team environment.
• Success in esports can bring its own set of challenges, including increased expectations and pressure. Mental resilience helps players manage success, stay humble, and continue working toward improvement.

Game Longevity:

• The lifespan of an esports career is often tied to the popularity and longevity of the game being played. Games that maintain a strong player base and continue to receive support from developers can provide longer career opportunities.

Game Updates and Meta Changes:

• The competitive landscape of esports games can change with updates, patches, and shifts in the meta (the prevailing strategies and tactics). Players who adapt well to these changes may prolong their careers.

Individual Performance:

• Consistent high-level performance is crucial for a sustained esports career. Players who consistently excel, contribute to team success, and remain relevant in the competitive scene are likely to have longer careers.

Injury Prevention and Health:

• Esports players can face health challenges such as repetitive strain injuries (RSI) or burnout. Prioritizing health, implementing preventive measures, and managing stress can impact the longevity of a career.

Personal Choices:

• Some players choose to transition to different roles within the esports industry or explore other career paths. Personal choices, such as pursuing coaching, content creation, or team management, can extend the lifespan of one's involvement in the industry.

Retirement and Transition Plans:

• Recognizing when to retire from active competition and having a transition plan in place are important considerations. Many players transition to roles in coaching, content creation, or commentary after retiring from professional play.

Team Dynamics and Contracts:

• Team dynamics, contracts, and relationships with organizations can influence a player's career. Stable team environments and positive relationships with management contribute to longer and more successful careers.

Age and Reflexes:

• While age is not a strict determinant, some esports titles may favor younger players with faster reflexes. Players in certain games may choose to retire or transition to different roles as they age.

Market Demand:

• The demand for players in specific games or roles can impact career longevity. High demand for skilled players in a particular game can result in longer and more lucrative careers.

Industry Evolution:

• The esports industry is continually evolving, with new games emerging and shifting trends. Players who adapt to industry changes and embrace new opportunities may find extended career options.

While having a streaming presence is not a strict requirement to succeed in esports, it can offer several advantages and opportunities for players.

• Streaming provides a platform for players to showcase their gameplay, personality, and skills to a global audience. Increased visibility can attract the attention of fans, teams, and sponsors.
• Streaming allows players to build a personal brand. Establishing a unique and engaging online persona can contribute to a positive reputation within the esports community.
• Streaming fosters direct interaction with fans in real-time through chat and audience participation. Building a dedicated fanbase can create a supportive community around the player.
• A strong streaming presence can attract sponsorship opportunities. Brands interested in the gaming and esports space may partner with players who have a significant online following.
• Streaming provides content that can be repurposed for other platforms, such as YouTube or social media. Creating diverse content enhances your online presence and extends your reach.
• Successful streamers can generate income through various channels, including subscriber donations, ad revenue, and sponsorships. While not the primary source of income for all players, it can provide additional financial support.
• Streaming allows players to network with other gamers, content creators, and industry professionals. Establishing connections can lead to collaborative opportunities, team invitations, or partnerships.

Whether it's better to specialize in one game or be proficient in multiple games depends on various factors, including personal preferences, career goals, and the nature of the esports industry.

Specializing in One Game:

Pros:

• Mastery and Expertise: Focusing on one game allows for a deep level of mastery and expertise. You can become highly skilled in the mechanics, strategies, and nuances specific to that game.
• Recognition: Specializing in one game can lead to recognition within the community. Establishing yourself as a top player in a particular title can attract fans, sponsors, and opportunities.
• Team Integration: Specialization often facilitates better integration into a team. Teammates can develop strong synergy and understanding of each other's playstyles, leading to more cohesive teamwork.
• Consistency: Consistent focus on one game increases the likelihood of maintaining a high level of performance over time. Deep familiarity with the meta and mechanics can contribute to sustained success.

Cons:

• Game Lifespan: The lifespan of a game may be limited. If the game loses popularity or is replaced by a new title, specialization may pose challenges in transitioning to a different game.
• Industry Changes: The esports industry is dynamic, and games may undergo significant changes. Adapting to updates, meta shifts, or game alterations can be a continuous challenge.
• Risk of Burnout: Intensive focus on a single game may lead to burnout, especially if the game demands extensive practice hours. It's important to balance dedication with self-care.

Being Proficient in Multiple Games:

Pros:

• Adaptability: Proficiency in multiple games demonstrates adaptability. Being able to transition between different titles can open up opportunities, especially if you can quickly learn and excel in new environments.
• Broader Opportunities: Proficiency in multiple games can increase your chances of finding opportunities. You may be eligible for a wider range of teams, tournaments, and sponsorships across different gaming communities.
• Marketability: A diverse skill set makes you more marketable. Content creators, streamers, and influencers who can engage with audiences across multiple games may appeal to a broader demographic.
• Career Longevity: Being proficient in multiple games can contribute to career longevity. If one game declines in popularity, you can transition to others, maintaining relevance and competitiveness.

Cons:

• Learning Curve: Learning and maintaining proficiency in multiple games can be challenging. The constant need to adapt to different mechanics, metas, and strategies requires ongoing effort.
• Divided Focus: Splitting attention across multiple games may result in less depth of expertise compared to specialists. It could be more challenging to compete at the highest level in each game.
• Team Dynamics: Team integration may be more challenging when players are proficient in different games. Achieving the same level of synergy and coordination may require additional effort.
• Resource Allocation: Time and resources spent across multiple games may dilute the focus on individual titles. Balancing practice, strategy development, and improvement across various games can be demanding.