Despite all the challenges brought up by the pandemic, the esports industry remained relatively consistent, continuing to be a source of entertainment and revenue for many across the globe.
Last year, the global esports industry generated 974.1 million dollars in revenue. The growth will continue, as it is predicted to be worth 1.6 billion in 2024.
Here are five trends to watch out for in 2021.
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Streaming Platforms Grew, Including Twitch
It’s no secret that streaming platforms (e.g., Netflix, Spotify, Disney+) became incredibly popular last year during covid when people were stuck and bored at home.
In 2020 Twitch experienced significant growth. The platform reached an impressive number, growing to 5 billion hours watched in the second quarter, which is more than 50% compared to the first quarter and more than 60% over the same three months in 2019.
Twitch has upped its game. You might be a hobbyist or a professional gamer; regardless, this platform is for you. It’s easy to share speed runs, demos, and walkthroughs with your audience.
It’s uncomplicated to stream any game (e.g., RPGs, e-sports). The interface is easy to use and is free to access too. However, suppose you’re becoming a popular gamer on the platform. In that case, it can be helpful to upgrade to a Twitch Turbo account, as it provides personalized options, exclusive promotions, and access to additional chat rooms.
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Mobile Esports Tournaments
Games like Call of Duty: Mobile and Mobile Legends dominate the mobile gaming industry. Unsurprisingly, gaming fans want to witness an esports iteration of these mobile games.
Mainstream esports organizations like FaZe Clan have already created teams for mobile games. So, expect more mobile esports tournaments to take place. Mobile gaming companies will certainly support it.
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Diversification of Revenue Streams
Currently, it’s common for large companies to sponsor esports organizations and players. So, keep in mind: tournament wins are no longer the only source of revenue for esports businesses.
While some esports organizations generate massive revenue from merchandise sales, others have come up with a subscription package (including exclusive merch and VIP perks) for passionate fans willing to support their beloved esports team.
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Esports Industry and Virtual Reality
Virtual Reality is becoming increasingly popular due to innovations and advancements in tech. It won’t take much longer until VR finds its way into esports.
VR stands out for giving gamers a more immersive experience, opening up multiple possibilities in competitive gaming.
Currently, there are no signs of VR implementation in an esports title. However, this tech will continue to develop this year, enabling us to know how VR can be a part of esports.
The esports industry is incredibly dynamic. Be prepared for new things.
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Gaming is Mainstream
Currently, popular gamers achieve celebrity and influential status, gaining millions of views across different social media platforms. Gamers are not just players: they’re content creators and influencers.
Seeing celebrities such as Travis Scott partnering up with Fortnite and watching Post Malone and Drake investing in esports organizations (Team Envy and 100 Thieves, respectively) gives gaming a new status.
Before, gaming was a pastime. Now, it’s ”hip” and a fantastic source of entertainment. No wonder gaming digital marketing services are becoming more popular. These businesses can deal properly with the innovations in the industry and better appeal to consumer demands.
Now, it’s all about playing and watching other gamers play, whether in professional esports competitions or casual streams.
The Future of Gaming
These trends are the future of the gaming and esports industry. Whether by competing in mobile esports tournaments or by simply being a gamer, embrace them!
If you’re having fun, it’s not a waste of time.
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