The booming world of eSports only started growing in the late 20th century. Its roots were in the early days of competitive gaming.
This could involve everything from a competitive poker game to a tournament using arcade style video platforms.
Some gaming experts trace the idea of competitive gaming back to the late 1970s when arcade games like Space Invaders and Pac-Man allowed players to compete for the highest recorded score on any machine. Others mention early televised poker tournaments.
The first notable competitive video gaming event was the1980 Space Invaders Championship, which attracted thousands of participants.
Soon game consoles changed the world of gaming. By the 2000s we saw the emergence of dedicated esports organizations like Major League Gaming and the Electronic Sports League using games like Counter-Strike, StarCraft, and Warcraft III.
Esports events began to attract large online viewership, leading to increased sponsorship and investment. It gained mainstream recognition and started to resemble traditional sports with franchised leagues and professional players.
Teams and players soon achieved celebrity status. The world of eSports has become a professional world that now offers serious career options.
Getting a job in eSports
The world of competitive gaming can make sense as a career choice for anyone who is talented, dedicated, and passionate about video games.
Firstly, talented gamers can become professional players, representing teams and organizations. Top players earn substantial income through salaries, tournament winnings, and endorsements.
In addition, many gamers have built successful careers by streaming gameplay on platforms like Twitch and YouTube. They generate revenue through ads, donations, and sponsorships.
Other careers can involve becoming a coach for esports teams. Esports events require knowledgeable commentators too.
Behind the scenes, eSports organizations need managers, marketers, and operations staff. There are also openings for production crews, event managers, and coordinators to organize eSports tournaments.
Success in eSports, like any career, requires dedication and hard work. It's not all about lounging in your bedroom playing games. It's a sought-after world so competition for any jobs is fierce.
Skills you need
Professional Player
- Gaming Skills: Exceptional proficiency in a specific game, including strategy and tactics.
- Teamwork: Ability to work effectively within a team, and communicate and coordinate strategies.
- Dedication: High level of commitment and practice to maintain skill.
- Adaptability: The capacity to adapt to game patches, meta changes, and different opponents.
Streamer/Content Creator
- Gaming Skills: Proficiency in one or more games to entertain and engage viewers.
- Personality: Charisma, communication skills, and the ability to entertain and engage an audience.
- Technical Proficiency: Knowledge of streaming software, video editing, and graphics for content creation.
- Consistency: Regular and reliable streaming or content release schedule.
- Marketing and Branding: Ability to market yourself, build a personal brand, and attract sponsors.
Coach/Analyst
- In-Depth Game Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of a game.
- Communication: Ability to convey complex information clearly to players.
- Analytical Skills: Skill in analyzing gameplay, identifying weaknesses, and developing strategies.
- Teaching and Mentorship: Capacity to coach and mentor players to improve their skills.
Behind-the-scenes Manager
- Organizational Skills: Project management and multitasking abilities.
- Team Leadership: Leadership skills to manage players, coaches, and support staff.
- Problem-Solving: The capacity to handle unexpected challenges and crises.
- Negotiation: Ability to secure sponsorships, contracts, and partnerships for the team.
Event Production/Management:
- Logistics: Skill in planning, coordinating, and executing events, including venue selection, scheduling, and staffing.
- Budgeting: Managing finances and resources for events.
- Problem-Solving: Handling technical challenges during events.
- Communication: Clear and effective communication with event participants and staff.
How to get started in eSports
Starting a career in esports sounds exciting but can be very hard. The places to kickstart a career include:
Online Platforms and Communities
Many start by streaming or content creation on platforms like Twitch or YouTube. Building an audience opens doors to opportunities.
Forums
You can begin by joining esports-related online communities, like Reddit’s esports subreddit. Networking and staying informed are important.
Social Media
Use platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn to connect with industry professionals, players, and teams.
Local Esports Events and Organizations
Look out for esports events, tournaments, and LAN parties in your area to meet people and gain experience. Or volunteer for local esports teams or tournament organizers.
Education
Some universities and colleges now offer esports management, game design, and related courses.
Networking
Go to esports events, conventions, and shows, and join online gaming communities and social media groups to connect with industry professionals.
Remember that the eSports industry is diverse, with opportunities in various fields – not just professional gaming.
Building a successful career in eSports often requires a combination of skills, networking, and perseverance. Think about your approach – and tailor it to your specific interests and goals within the industry.
