The rise of live streaming presents a novel opportunity for esports athletes to find revenue streams for their play. Emmanuel Thompson, a life-long gamer, found his passion for gaming turning into a potential career avenue during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the lockdown providing him more time to delve into his hobby, Thompson ventured into streaming, eventually becoming a Twitch affiliate and tapping into the burgeoning world of esports.
The pandemic not only saw a surge in casual and competitive gameplay but also witnessed the integration of gambling into video games, akin to traditional sports betting. While esports gambling has been established internationally, its popularity in the United States gained momentum post-pandemic, with major operators like DraftKings embracing esports betting.
Moreover, Thompson’s interest in betting on professional esports events reflects a broader trend among viewers, who can now wager on their favorite streamers or teams during broadcasts. This situation allows viewers to engage more deeply with esports events and adds an element of excitement and potential monetary gain.
Beyond traditional sports betting, there’s a growing trend of self-betting platforms like Players’ Lounge and Gaming Stars, which makes players to bet on their own performance in various video games. These platforms offer different play styles, including 1v1 matches, point predictions, and tournament-style gameplay, catering to a diverse range of gaming preferences.
However, amidst the rising popularity of esports gambling, concerns about its impact, particularly on younger demographics, have been raised. While regulations aim to safeguard against underage gambling, experts caution against the potential risks associated with early exposure to gambling within the gaming community.
Thompson remains cautiously optimistic about the future of esports gambling and its integration with the gaming industry. He acknowledges the diverse opportunities for individuals to earn money through streaming, betting, or participating in esports, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the gaming ecosystem.
