The Biggest Esports Games: A Look at the Top Titles

January 23, 2025
8 Minute Read

Esports tournaments have exploded in popularity, becoming more than just a mere hobby for gamers for others to look at funny – they’re now full-blown global events that rival traditional sports in terms of viewership and prize money. Can you imagine, millions of fans tuning in to watch their favorite players battle it out in the virtual arena? It’s no wonder esports has grown as much as it has, especially in recent years.

The biggest esports tournaments are not just about flashy gameplay, though; they represent the pinnacle of competitive gaming if you ask us. These events draw in huge audiences, and with prize pools reaching astronomical figures, they’ve completely reshaped how we think about video games. Whether it’s cheering for underdog teams or witnessing nail-biting finishes, the thrill of esports is something every gamer can relate to.

So, what are the biggest esports video games today? It’s not just about the games themselves but also the passionate communities, massive prize pools, and record-breaking viewership numbers. From Epic Games Fortnite’s billion-dollar franchise to League of Legends’ global phenomenon, these games are redefining entertainment as we know it.

If you’re curious about the top esports games and what makes them stand out in the crowded gaming landscape, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the giants of competitive gaming and explore what makes them so special.

What Defines the Biggest Esports Games?

When it comes to determining which games stand at the top of the esports world, a few key factors come into play. First and foremost, viewership numbers are critical. The most popular esports games attract millions of viewers during major tournaments, showcasing the immense fan base behind them. But it’s not just about the audience—these games also offer some of the highest-paying esports tournaments in the world, with prize pools often surpassing traditional sports events.

Another important factor is the player base. The biggest gaming tournaments feature teams and players from all over the globe, and their skill levels reflect the sheer competitiveness of these games. From grassroots competitions to the largest esports events, the journey to the top is intense, making these titles the crown jewels of the esports industry.

Top 10 Esports Games: The Giants of Competitive Gaming

Esports has no shortage of standout games, but a select few dominate the scene with massive followings and legendary tournaments. These games not only shape the competitive gaming landscape but also fuel some of the biggest esports tournaments in the world. Whether it’s through groundbreaking gameplay, strategic depth, or the sheer scale of their fanbase, these titles have earned their place at the top.

From MOBAs to first-person shooters, the biggest video game tournaments are tied to a wide variety of genres. And while each game has its own unique appeal, they all have one thing in common—a passionate community and staggering prize pools that keep fans and players coming back for more.

League of Legends

League of Legends (LoL) stands as one of the biggest esports games in history, with a competitive scene that has only grown since its release in 2009. As a Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA), LoL has captured the hearts of millions with its strategic depth, fast-paced gameplay, and ever-evolving meta. The game’s biggest tournament, the League of Legends World Championship, boasts some of the highest prize pools in esports, with millions of dollars up for grabs.

LoL’s global reach is unmatched, with players and fans from all corners of the world tuning in to watch the action. Whether it’s regional leagues or the world finals, LoL has cemented itself as a true giant in the esports world, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the top esports tournaments.

Dota 2

Dota 2, another MOBA giant, is best known for its colossal prize pools, particularly at The International, which consistently holds the title for the biggest prize money esports tournament. Released by Valve in 2013, Dota 2 features complex gameplay that demands teamwork, strategy, and skill, making it a favorite among hardcore gamers and esports enthusiasts alike.

What truly sets Dota 2 apart is its community-driven funding of prize pools through the sale of in-game items. This model has allowed The International to boast prize pools of over $40 million, making it one of the most lucrative esports tournaments in history.

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive

First-person shooter (FPS) fans have been glued to Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS) since its release in 2012. Known for its tactical gameplay, where teams of terrorists and counter-terrorists go head-to-head, CS is a staple in the world of competitive gaming.

With major tournaments like the CS Major Championships attracting global attention, this game continues to dominate esports. The biggest esports events tied to CS boast huge viewership and intense competition, with millions of dollars on the line, making it one of the top esports tournaments year after year.

Fortnite

Fortnite revolutionized the battle royale genre, blending shooting mechanics with building elements in a way no other game had done before. Since its release in 2017, Fortnite has quickly grown into one of the most popular esports games, with massive events like the Fortnite World Cup offering prize pools in the millions.

Its unique cartoon-like art style and accessibility to players of all ages have made Fortnite a global phenomenon, attracting both casual players and serious competitors. As one of the biggest video game tournaments, the Fortnite World Cup is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Valorant

Valorant, Riot Games’ entry into the competitive FPS market, has rapidly gained a foothold in the esports world since its release in 2020. Blending tactical shooter elements from games like CS with unique character abilities, Valorant offers a fresh take on the genre.

Valorant’s esports scene is growing fast, with major tournaments like the Valorant Champions Tour becoming some of the top esports tournaments to follow. As one of the most popular esports games today, it’s clear that Valorant is here to stay.

Apex Legends

Apex Legends, another battle royale game, brings a unique twist with its hero-based gameplay, where players select characters with special abilities. Released by Respawn Entertainment in 2019, Apex Legends quickly carved out a spot for itself in the competitive gaming landscape.

With events like the Apex Legends Global Series, the game boasts significant prize pools and a growing player base. Apex’s fast-paced, team-oriented gameplay ensures its place among the biggest gaming tournaments in the world.

Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0

Call of Duty has long been a staple of the FPS genre, and Warzone 2.0, the battle royale spin-off, keeps that tradition alive. Released in 2022, Warzone 2.0 takes everything players love about Call of Duty and ramps it up with massive, dynamic battles and cutting-edge graphics.

The Call of Duty League regularly features Warzone tournaments, making it one of the biggest esports events. With its enormous fan base and the high-stakes competition, Warzone 2.0 continues to dominate the esports scene.

Overwatch 2

Blending FPS mechanics with hero-based gameplay, Overwatch 2 builds on the success of the original Overwatch, offering more maps, heroes, and a revamped competitive experience. Blizzard’s 2022 sequel has carried over the original game’s vibrant esports scene, with the Overwatch League remaining one of the most popular esports events globally.

Overwatch 2’s diverse gameplay and massive community have ensured its place as a top esports game, with major tournaments offering substantial prize pools.

PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG)

PUBG is the game that popularized the battle royale genre, bringing massive 100-player, last-man-standing battles to the forefront of esports. Released in 2017, PUBG’s competitive scene took off quickly, and it remains one of the highest-paying esports games, especially with events like the PUBG Global Championship.

PUBG’s impact on competitive gaming is undeniable, and it continues to be one of the biggest gaming tournaments, drawing in viewers from around the globe.

Rocket League

Rocket League might seem like a simple concept—cars playing soccer—but it has taken the esports world by storm since its release in 2015. Its fast-paced, physics-based gameplay makes for thrilling matches, and the Rocket League Championship Series is one of the most-watched esports tournaments in the world.

With a strong community and exciting esports scene, Rocket League continues to hold its place among the top esports games, offering something fresh in the landscape of competitive gaming.

Conclusion – Play the Biggest Esports Games at DISCasino

The esports industry continues to grow at an incredible pace, and these top titles are at the heart of it all. From strategic battles in League of Legends to intense firefights in CS, these games represent the pinnacle of competitive gaming. The biggest esports tournaments tied to these titles not only showcase world-class talent but also offer massive prize pools that keep players and fans on the edge of their seats.

Ready to jump into the action? Play the most popular esports games today at DISCasino, where you can enjoy top-tier competition, exciting betting opportunities, and the thrill of esports like never before.

Frequently Asked Questions

Esports is growing fast, and with so many games and tournaments, it’s natural to have some questions. Below, we answer some common queries about the biggest esports games and events.

What is the most watched esport?

League of Legends consistently ranks as the most-watched esport, with millions tuning in for major events like the World Championship.

What is the #1 esport?

Currently, League of Legends is considered the top esport, with the largest player base and viewership.

Is esports still popular?

Absolutely! Esports is more popular than ever, with tournaments offering record-breaking prize pools and viewership continuing to grow.

What is the oldest esport?

Counter-Strike is considered one of the oldest esports, with competitive play dating back to the late 1990s.

Which esport has the biggest prize pool?

Dota 2 holds the record for the biggest prize pool, thanks to The International, which often surpasses $40 million.

Can you bet on esports tournaments?

Yes, many sites, including DISCasino, offer a wide range of betting markets for esports tournaments.

Tom Middleton

Tom is a crypto gambling expert with more than a decade of experience in the industry and Master’s Degree in Journalism. He has written thoroughly researched guides and reviews for several major publications.

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