The evolution of eSports has been a remarkable journey, transforming from a niche hobby into a booming global industry. The appeal of eSports has grown significantly, with its audience surpassing that of major traditional sports leagues. In 2017, eSports had a total viewership of 335 million, projected to reach 646 million by 2023. The industry is not just popular among males; 30% of eSports viewers and 35% of players are women. High-profile gamers like Ninja have demonstrated the lucrative potential of eSports, earning substantial incomes through platforms like Twitch.
The world of eSports has seen exponential growth over the past decade, evolving from niche communities to mainstream entertainment with massive audiences and prize pools. As we step into 2024, understanding the leading eSports games becomes crucial for fans, investors, and participants alike. This article delves into the top esports games, examining why they are the most popular esports, their prize pools, viewer statistics, and the championships that highlight their global appeal.
Top 10 Esports Games by Prize Pool
- Counter-Strike
Prize pool: $8,014,773
Peak viewers: 1,853,954
Type: PC / Console
Counter-Strike has been a cornerstone in the eSports industry, known for its strategic gameplay and high-stakes tournaments. The substantial prize pool is a testament to its popularity and the investment from sponsors and organizations. The game attracts millions of viewers due to its intense matches and the skill required to master it. Major championships like the ESL Pro League and the Intel Extreme Masters are among the most-watched events, solidifying Counter-Strike’s place as one of the top esports games.
- Dota 2
Prize pool: $6,908,898
Peak viewers: 487,493
Type: PC / Console
Dota 2 is synonymous with massive prize pools, thanks in large part to its community-funded The International, which sets records year after year. Its complex mechanics and deep strategy keep audiences engaged, making it one of the best competitive games in the world. The lower peak viewer count compared to other games doesn’t detract from its status as one of the most popular esports games, with events like the Dota Pro Circuit keeping fans and players invested.
- Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege
Prize pool: $5,288,020
Peak viewers: 521,374
Type: PC / Console
Rainbow Six Siege stands out with its tactical gameplay and destructible environments, offering a unique viewing experience. The consistent prize pools and the support from Ubisoft ensure it remains a staple in the eSports scene. The Six Invitational and regional leagues provide platforms for intense competition, contributing to its status among the top 10 esports games.
- Fortnite
Prize pool: $4,635,496
Peak viewers: 739,575
Type: PC / Console
Fortnite’s blend of battle royale chaos and building mechanics makes it a thrilling spectator sport. Its popularity is reflected in the significant prize pools and the sheer number of peak viewers. Epic Games’ commitment to large-scale events like the Fortnite World Cup helps maintain its position as one of the most popular esports games, attracting both casual and hardcore fans.
- League of Legends
Prize pool: $3,702,392
Peak viewers: 2,829,728
Type: PC / Console
League of Legends is arguably the most popular eSports game globally, with massive viewership and a strong competitive scene. The game’s strategic depth and fast-paced action are key reasons for its appeal. Events like the World Championship and the Mid-Season Invitational draw millions of viewers, demonstrating why it remains one of the best competitive games in 2024.
- Honor of Kings
Prize pool: $3,127,376
Peak viewers: 46,736
Type: Mobile
Honor of Kings showcases the potential of mobile eSports, with substantial prize pools and a dedicated viewer base. Its accessibility on mobile devices broadens its reach, making it a significant player in the eSports arena. Championships like the Honor of Kings World Champion Cup highlight its competitive nature and growing popularity.
- Rocket League
Prize pool: $2,960,718
Peak viewers: 435,503
Type: PC / Console
Rocket League combines soccer with rocket-powered cars, offering a unique and exciting viewing experience. Its consistent prize pools and a strong competitive scene make it one of the top esports games. Events like the Rocket League Championship Series (RLCS) provide thrilling matches that captivate audiences, ensuring its place among the most popular games in 2024.
- Valorant
Prize pool: $2,749,698
Peak viewers: 1,687,848
Type: PC / Console
Valorant, with its blend of tactical shooting and hero abilities, has quickly risen to prominence. The substantial prize pools and significant peak viewership reflect its popularity. Riot Games’ commitment to competitive integrity and high-quality events like the Valorant Champions Tour help cement its status as one of the best competitive games today.
- PUBG Mobile
Prize pool: $2,314,654
Peak viewers: 513,680
Type: Mobile
PUBG Mobile’s success demonstrates the viability of mobile eSports. Its large prize pools and high peak viewership numbers are indicative of its widespread popularity. The PUBG Mobile Global Championship and other regional tournaments showcase top-tier competition, making it one of the most popular esports games globally.
- Street Fighter
Prize pool: $2,301,679
Peak viewers: 311,610
Type: PC / Console
Street Fighter, a pioneer in the fighting game genre, continues to attract significant audiences and prize pools. Its fast-paced, skill-intensive gameplay appeals to a broad audience. Major events like the Capcom Pro Tour and EVO highlight its competitive scene, ensuring it remains one of the top 10 esports games in 2024.
