Esports Motivations: What's Driving the Fastest Growing Sports Phenomenon?

This edited volume explores the various motivations driving the esports industry, including sponsors, athletes, and entertainment values, drawing on perspectives from media studies, game studies, communication, and digital communities.

Format: Hardback
Length: 154 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2024
Publisher: Lexington Books

The rapidly expanding esports industry has captured the attention of major sponsors, athletic organizations, and entertainment values, leading to significant financial investment. This edited volume delves into the diverse and unique motivations that drive this phenomenon. Contributors from various perspectives and theoretical vantage points examine the multitude of traditions, cultures, expectations, and rituals that different stakeholders consider when engaging with esports. Scholars in media studies, game studies, communication, entertainment, and digital communities will find this volume particularly insightful.

Esports has emerged as a global phenomenon, attracting millions of players and viewers worldwide. The industry has grown rapidly in recent years, driven by technological advancements, the rise of social media, and the increasing popularity of video games. One of the key motivations behind the growth of esports is the competitive nature of the games. Esports tournaments offer players the opportunity to showcase their skills, compete against the best in the world, and win significant prizes. The competitive nature of esports has also attracted a large following of fans who enjoy watching and supporting their favorite players and teams.

Another motivation behind the growth of esports is the social aspect of the games. Esports communities are vibrant and diverse, with players from different backgrounds and cultures coming together to play and socialize. These communities provide a sense of belonging and camaraderie, which can be particularly valuable for individuals who may feel isolated or marginalized in other aspects of their lives. Esports also offers opportunities for social interaction and networking, which can be beneficial for professional development and career advancement.

The financial incentives associated with esports have also contributed to its growth. Professional esports players can earn significant salaries and prizes, with some top players earning millions of dollars annually. This has attracted investors and sponsors, who are willing to invest in the industry to gain exposure and promote their products. The financial incentives have also led to the development of professional esports leagues and organizations, which provide structure and support to the players and teams.

Esports has also been influenced by the growth of technology and the internet. The rise of streaming platforms and social media has made it easier for players and fans to connect and share information about esports. This has led to the development of a global esports community, with players and fans from different countries and regions coming together to celebrate and discuss the sport.

Despite the growth and popularity of esports, there are also challenges and controversies associated with the industry. One of the main challenges is the issue of addiction and gaming disorders. Some players and fans have reported experiencing addiction to esports, which can have negative effects on their physical and mental health. There have also been concerns about the impact of esports on young players, particularly regarding the potential for violent behavior and the promotion of toxic masculinity.

Another challenge is the issue of gender inequality in esports. While there have been efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in esports, there are still significant barriers to women's participation and representation in the industry. Women are often underrepresented in professional esports teams and tournaments, and they face discrimination and harassment in the gaming community.

Despite these challenges, esports continues to grow and evolve. The industry is attracting more attention and investment, and there are ongoing efforts to address the issues of addiction, gender inequality, and other challenges. Esports has the potential to become a major source of entertainment and economic growth, and it will be interesting to see how the industry develops in the future.

In conclusion, the growth of esports has been driven by a variety of motivations, including the competitive nature of the games, the social aspect of the games, the financial incentives, the growth of technology and the internet, and the potential for economic growth. While there are challenges and controversies associated with the industry, esports continues to grow and evolve, and it has the potential to become a major source of entertainment and economic growth.

Weight: 408g
Dimension: 236 x 159 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781666913576