Esports and esports betting continue to grow at a rapid pace, averaging nearly 15% annual growth over the last 5 years alone. This exponential growth sets the stage for major changes and disruptive innovation in the future landscape of esports wagering. This article explores the key trends to expect as esports betting evolves.
Mainstream Bookmaker Adoption
Esports betting will move further into the mainstream as traditional sportsbooks add markets for major titles and tournaments. Expect leading operators like Bet365, Betway and Unibet to expand esports offerings to attract younger demographics. Bookies will hire dedicated esports trading teams and sponsor events/teams. Mainstream credibility and regulation will follow.
Advanced Analytical Modeling
Sophisticated data analytics using machine learning will become more prevalent. Detailed performance stats coupled with sentiment analysis, natural language processing and computer vision will feed complex models to generate accurate game outcome predictions, smart betting recommendations and dynamic odds.
Augmented and Virtual Reality
The rise of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) will drive innovation in esports viewing and wagering. Imagine immersive 360° VR streams allowing bettors to experience matches courtside in real-time to inform in-play betting. AR overlays will provide live stat trackers and betting prompts projected onto matches.
Increased In-Play and Live Betting
Already a huge share of total esports wagering, live betting will become even more prominent as streaming quality and betting technology improves. Near instantaneous odds generating algorithms, cash out options and micro-markets on each kill, round and play will be standard as matches evolve at lighting speed.
Exotic and Micro Betting
Advances like the blockchain and smart contracts allow for exotic bet types requiring outcome resolution in seconds. Micro-betting on things like the outcome of the next teamfight, exact tower damage or number of wards placed will complement traditional bets. High frequency in-play opportunities will satisfy the need for instant stimulation.
Convergence with Video Gaming
Direct integration with streaming platforms like Twitch and Steam will allow seamless betting from video game clients. Bet prompts, odds overlays and bet slips integrated into game UIs can enable wagering in real-time without leaving matches. Blending gaming with betting removes friction.
Growth of Mobile Esports Betting
The rise of 5G networks and dedicated esports betting apps will make wagering on-the-go even easier. Being able to bet anytime from anywhere further drives engagement. Geo-targeted real-time promotions will convert mobile users efficiently thanks to easy deposits/withdrawals.
Personalization and Customization
AI-driven customer segmentation will enable highly personalized promotions, content and pricing tailored to each bettor’s preferences. Custom bets like betting against your friends will become more prominent. Gamification aspects will also induce loyalty through rewards.