18 October 2024

What’s up with eSports? A guide for small business owners

By Ronald Smith

Let me break it down for you – eSports, short for electronic sports, is a whole new world of competitive gaming. And as a small business owner, you might wonder why it’s even worth your attention. Well, let me tell you, there’s more to eSports than meets the eye.

Picture this: a virtual arena filled with players from all around the globe, battling it out in different video game tournaments. These tournaments can be as big as the Super Bowl or the World Cup, attracting massive crowds and even bigger prize pools.

Now, here’s the twist – eSports isn’t just some hobby or pastime. It’s a booming industry with millions of fans, players, and sponsors. Major companies like Coca-Cola and Intel are getting in on the action, and you wouldn’t want to miss out on the potential opportunities that come with it.

So, how does it all work? Well, think of eSports as a combination of traditional sports and online gaming. Professional gamers train for hours, honing their skills to become the best in their chosen game. They compete against other players or teams, aiming to claim victory and secure those sweet cash prizes.

But it’s not all about the players. Just like any real sport, there are coaches, managers, event organizers, and even commentators. These individuals play vital roles in making sure everything runs smoothly and keeping the audience engaged.

Now, you might be thinking, Okay, this sounds interesting, but how does it relate to my small business? Well, the rise of eSports opens up a world of possibilities for marketing and sponsorship. You can reach a whole new demographic of passionate gamers who are eager to support businesses that align with their interests.

Whether you own a gaming-related business or not, there are countless opportunities to get involved. You could sponsor a tournament, host an eSports event, or partner with popular streamers and content creators to promote your products or services.

So, don’t dismiss eSports as just another fad. It’s a rapidly growing industry that’s capturing the attention of millions. By understanding and embracing this cultural phenomenon, you can position your small business at the forefront of an exciting and emerging market.

Remember, the choice is yours. Will you join the eSports revolution or let this opportunity pass you by?

What's up with eSports? A guide for small business owners

Let’s talk about video games, shall we? It’s surprising how some people still hold onto old ideas when it comes to gaming. Even in 2016, some folks from the older generations think that playing games is just a waste of time and that it’s something only lonely kids do. But let me tell you, gaming has changed a lot, and it’s now one of the coolest, most social, and successful industries in the world.

Actually, even small business owners should pay attention to this gaming revolution. There are so many opportunities for them to jump in and make some serious money.

So, what exactly is eSports?

What's up with eSports? A guide for small business owners

When it comes to professional and competitive gaming, we’re actually talking about a bigger world called electronic sports, or ‘eSports’ for short. Until recently, eSports was kind of an underground thing with just a few big competitions every year where a small group of amateur gamers would battle it out in live contests. But then, in the early 2010s, more and more people started showing up to watch these events, and things started happening more often.

Believe it or not, there are now jaw-dropping amounts of money up for grabs, official leagues have been created, and big companies are sponsoring the whole thing. And the appetite for eSports in America is only going to get bigger.

Did you know that the eSports market is worth a staggering $612 million? That’s a lot of money! And it’s not just about the cash – there are 134 million people who regularly tune in to watch eSports. But here’s the really exciting part: there are also 35 million passionate fans who actively follow leagues and players in the US. These fans are mostly between 16 and 34 years old, which makes them a highly sought-after demographic.

But it’s not just the US that’s going crazy for eSports. It’s a worldwide phenomenon! Experts believe that there’s a potential audience of up to 1.4 billion spectators. That’s mind-boggling, isn’t it?

With such a huge demand, networks and media outlets are eager to get a piece of the action. Just last year, the BBC made history by broadcasting an eSports league tournament live on air. It was the first time ever! And in May, TBS started airing American league events every Friday night for three whole months. That’s a lot of eSports action!

Considering the huge potential of the growing industry, it’s not surprising that eSports has quickly become popular. As a small business owner, you might be wondering how you can take advantage of this success and get involved.

The Different Kinds of eSports

What's up with eSports? A guide for small business owners

Let’s dive into the world of esports together. Esports includes lots of different games, each with its own special rules, strategies, and competitive scenes. We can group these games into different categories based on how they’re played and what the goals are. Check out these main types of esports:

  • First-Person Shooters (FPS): In these games, you play as a character who uses firearms or other weapons. The goal is usually to defeat the other team or complete specific missions. Some popular examples are “Counter-Strike: Global Offensive” (CS:GO) and “Overwatch.”

I’m here to tell you about three exciting types of video games! Let’s dive in and explore each one.

First up, we have Real-Time Strategy (RTS) games. In these games, you gather resources, build structures, and command armies to fight against your opponents. It’s all about making smart decisions, planning ahead, and using your strategic skills. One popular example of an RTS game is StarCraft II. It’s a game that really challenges your mind!

Next, we have Sports Simulation games. These games let you experience real-world sports in a digital world. Imagine playing soccer, basketball, or football right from your home! Some well-known sports simulation games are FIFA, NBA 2K, and Madden NFL. They bring the excitement of the sports field right to your fingertips.

Finally, we have Fighting Games. In these games, you take control of characters who have unique fighting styles and moves. You’ll go head-to-head against another player until one of you is defeated. Some classic fighting games that you might recognize include Street Fighter, Tekken, and Super Smash Bros. They’re all about fast-paced action and adrenaline-pumping battles.

So, there you have it! Three different types of video games that offer unique experiences. Whether you enjoy strategy, sports, or intense battles, there’s something out there for everyone. Get ready to jump into the world of gaming and have a blast!

  • Battle Royale: This genre is a newer addition to the gaming world. In these games, you’re dropped onto a map with other players, and you have to search for weapons and equipment. But be careful! The play area gets smaller and smaller, forcing you to fight until you’re the last player or team standing. Games like Fortnite and PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) are great examples of this genre.
  • Racing: If you love the thrill of speed and competition, racing games are for you. These games let you participate in virtual racing competitions, where the goal is to finish the track as fast as you can or beat your opponents. Popular titles in this genre include Gran Turismo and F1.
  • Each esport genre offers a unique gaming experience, attracting different types of players with varying skills and interests. The esports industry is constantly growing, and we can expect to see more genres and innovative games in the future, making the esports world even more exciting.

    Benefits of Getting Involved in eSports for Small Businesses

    What's up with eSports? A guide for small business owners

    • Audience Reach: Esports gives small businesses the opportunity to connect with a huge global audience. With millions of fans watching competitive matches, leagues, and tournaments, businesses can gain visibility by sponsoring teams, players, or events. This audience is made up of young people who are skilled with technology, which makes them a desirable group for many small businesses to reach.
    • Brand Alignment: Esports is all about being dynamic and forward-thinking, which makes it a perfect fit for businesses that want to be seen as innovative and in touch with current trends. Being associated with esports can give businesses an advantage and appeal to a demographic that values modern and tech-savvy brands.
    • Community Engagement: Esports fans are super passionate and involved. When you join the esports world, you can tap into this passion and create loyal communities around your products or services. By connecting with fans through social media, online forums, or in-person events, you can build strong, lasting relationships.
    • Diverse Marketing Opportunities: Esports offers a ton of different ways to promote your brand. You can advertise within the game, sponsor team jerseys, or even throw local watch parties. There are so many innovative marketing avenues for small businesses to explore.

    By taking advantage of these benefits, small businesses can reach a whole new audience and establish deep connections, all while staying ahead of the game in modern marketing trends.

    How Can Small Businesses Get Involved?

    I want to talk to you about how small businesses like yours can become a part of something exciting. You might be wondering, How can I join in on the fun? Well, I’ve got some great ideas for you!

    First things first, let me explain how you can use the power of technology to expand your business. With the rise of the internet, there are so many opportunities waiting for you. Think of your website as your virtual storefront. It’s a place where people can find you, learn about what you offer, and even make purchases. It’s like having a 24/7 open sign for your business!

    Next, let’s talk about social media. It’s not just for sharing pictures of cute cats (although that’s always a plus!). Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can be powerful tools for growing your business. You can use these platforms to connect with your customers, share updates and special offers, and even run targeted ads to reach new people who might be interested in what you have to offer.

    Another great way to get involved is by partnering with other local businesses. Collaboration is key! By joining forces with complementary businesses in your area, you can create a win-win situation. You can refer customers to each other, share marketing efforts, and even offer joint promotions or discounts. It’s all about supporting each other and helping everyone succeed.

    Lastly, don’t forget to get involved in your community. Sponsor local events, donate to charities, and be a visible presence in your neighborhood. People love supporting businesses that give back, so this is a fantastic way to build a loyal customer base while making a positive impact at the same time.

    So, there you have it, my friend. These are just a few ideas to help you get started on your journey to success. Remember, with a little creativity, determination, and a willingness to think outside the box, the possibilities are endless. Good luck, and I can’t wait to see you thrive!

    What's up with eSports? A guide for small business owners

    Big companies are going all out to be a part of the action. The talent agency WME IMG has signed all the up-and-coming stars in the industry, and big brands like Coca-Cola and Red Bull are becoming regular sponsors of events. The prizes for winning teams can now be over $1 million, which is probably too much for most small business owners. But there are still plenty of ways to get involved in eSports without spending a lot of money.

    One of the easiest ways to promote your brand and reach potential customers at these popular gaming events is to become a joint sponsor of a team, venue, or individual in a regular league. Companies like SponsorOP can help you find affordable eSports sponsorships and collaboration opportunities.