How to Bet on Esports: A Complete Beginner's Guide to Online Gaming Wagers

How to Bet on Esports: A Complete Beginner's Guide to Online Gaming Wagers

By Michael Peterson

March 13, 2025 at 06:06 AM

Betting on esports has become increasingly popular, and I'll guide you through the essential steps to get started safely and effectively.

First, you need to choose a reliable betting platform. Look for licensed sportsbooks that specifically offer esports markets and have positive user reviews. Popular platforms like Betway Esports and GG.bet are well-established in this space.

Understanding esports betting odds is crucial. Odds are typically displayed in decimal (2.50), fractional (3/2), or American (+150) formats. These numbers indicate your potential return on investment. For example, with decimal odds of 2.50, a $100 bet would return $250 if successful.

Here's what you need to know about common bet types:

Match winner (moneyline): Betting on which team will win
Handicap betting: Giving one team a virtual advantage/disadvantage
Total maps/rounds: Betting on the number of maps/rounds played
First blood: Betting on which team scores first
Tournament winner: Betting on the overall tournament champion

Before placing any bets, research is essential. I recommend:

Following team performance statistics
Checking head-to-head records
Monitoring player roster changes
Staying updated with patch notes and game updates
Understanding the tournament format

Managing your bankroll is critical. Here are my key tips:

Set a fixed budget for betting
Never bet more than 5% of your total bankroll on a single bet
Keep detailed records of your bets
Don't chase losses
Use bonuses and promotions wisely

Live betting has become increasingly popular in esports. It allows you to place bets while matches are in progress, but requires quick thinking and good game knowledge.

For beginners, I suggest:

Starting with simple match winner bets
Focusing on games you understand well
Using small stakes while learning
Following professional analysts and tipsters
Practicing with play money first if possible

Remember that different esports have unique betting markets. Popular games include:

CS:GO (Counter-Strike: Global Offensive)
Dota 2
League of Legends
Valorant
Overwatch

Always bet responsibly and be aware of gambling regulations in your region. If you're ever unsure about odds or betting terms, most reputable platforms offer customer support to help clarify any questions.

To improve your chances of success, join esports betting communities and forums to share insights and strategies with other bettors. However, always make your own informed decisions rather than blindly following others' tips.

Remember that successful esports betting requires patience, discipline, and continuous learning. Start small, stay informed, and gradually develop your betting strategy based on experience and careful analysis.

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