Complete Guide to Popular Esports Games: What Games Are Played Professionally in 2024
Esports games are competitive video games played at a professional level in organized tournaments and leagues. I'll break down the main categories and specific games that dominate the esports landscape.
Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) Games • League of Legends - The most popular esport globally • Dota 2 - Known for having the largest prize pools in esports • Heroes of the Storm - Blizzard's take on the MOBA genre
First-Person Shooter (FPS) Games • Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) - The leading tactical shooter • Valorant - Riot Games' competitive shooter • Overwatch - Team-based hero shooter • Call of Duty - Popular console-based esport
Battle Royale Games • Fortnite - Known for massive tournaments and prize pools • PUBG - Pioneer of the battle royale genre in esports • Apex Legends - Fast-paced team battle royale
Fighting Games • Street Fighter - Traditional fighting game with a long esports history • Super Smash Bros. - Nintendo's platform fighter • Mortal Kombat - Popular tournament fighter
Sports Games • FIFA - The primary sports esport globally • NBA 2K - Professional basketball simulation • Rocket League - Unique car-based soccer game
Real-Time Strategy (RTS) Games • StarCraft II - The most competitive RTS esport • Age of Empires - Classic RTS with growing competitive scene
Card Games • Hearthstone - Blizzard's digital card game • Magic: The Gathering Arena - Digital version of the popular card game
To be considered an esport, a game typically needs: • A large player base • Regular professional tournaments • Substantial prize pools • Organized leagues and teams • Strong spectator appeal • Balanced competitive gameplay
Not all video games become esports - they must demonstrate competitive viability and maintain a dedicated professional scene. The most successful esports games typically feature regular updates, strong developer support, and clear paths to professional play.
These games continue to evolve, with new titles entering the esports scene while others may decline in popularity. The common thread among all successful esports games is their ability to showcase player skill, strategy, and competitive spirit at the highest level.