11 Biggest eSports Tournaments in 2024

Blackjack can be a game of strategy — but winning big in blackjack is a matter of timing and knowing when the right time is to double down. Namely, doubling down is among the most popular bets in blackjack, but many people don't fully understand how the move works and how timing plays a crucial role in the process. I’ll explain when to double down in Blackjack because, In some cases, if you do this right, you'll be upping your winnings in a big way. What Does Doubling Down Mean in Blackjack? When you double down in blackjack, you receive only one more card after doubling your bet. A possible problem in this scenario is that if you get dealt a low card, you can't hit again, and you may lose twice as much money. So, it's essential to know when to double down during a game of blackjack in order to win, and the key is to find the right balance between playing safe and taking risks to ensure that you have the edge over your competitors in the game. When to Double Down in Blackjack? Fortunately, basic strategies for blackjack have been meticulously mapped out using mathematical probability to tell you exactly when it's best (on a long-term basis) to double down. Depending on the situation, there are three times when it's best to double down, and as a result, you are in the likely position to finish with a high hand in situations below, whereas the dealer is most likely to lose. Here are the hands when you should double down: Hand total equals 11 Hard 9 or 10 Soft 16, 17, 18 Hand Total is 11 Undoubtedly, this is the most popular and well-known time for players to double down on blackjack. You're more likely to hit blackjack if holding eleven in your hand, as one more card can get you close to it. In any case, you won't break 21. As a result, many people opt to double down when their total number of cards is 11. Hard 9 or 10 The term "hard hand" refers to a hand in which no ace is involved (sigh). If your dealer is showing a lower card than what you have, which puts you in a better position than the dealer, it may be a good time for you to double down on your hand. Soft 16, 17, 18 "Soft" is the term used to describe a hand with an ace and another card. If you had a chance to play blackjack, you know that an ace can be a great advantage since it increases your chances of either hitting 21 or coming very close to it, depending on the situation. Even so, it's important not to get overconfident when you see the all-important ace on the board. It's a good rule of thumb that you should only double down in these situations when, once again, the dealer is showing the lower card in hand. When Not to Double Down? Double downing too frequently can backfire in an attempt to increase your winnings. However, there are some instances where it isn't a good idea, and you'll likely lose a lot of money quickly if you do so. There are times when you should not double down, such as: The dealer holds an Ace You have a hard hand over 11 The Dealer Has an Ace When it comes to blackjack, an ace can be quite a powerful card to have in your hand, which is why you should never double down when the dealer has one. In other words, the odds are in their favor if they hit blackjack or get very close to 21. Hard Hand Over 11 It's not a good idea to double down if your hard hand is higher than 11, and you have a chance of going bust. Never take a risk if you're unsure. Tips for Doubling Down in Blackjack To help you decide whether to double down or stick with your initial bet, here are some tricks and tips that you can take into account: If you're ready to take the risk, push a stack of chips equal to your original wager next to your current wager. To avoid being perceived as tampering, new chips shouldn't be added over the original bet. Remember to always double down on the same amount as your initial bet. When you show an 11, it's almost always a good idea to double down, particularly for those new to blackjack. It's usually impossible to double down after you split a hand. As the name implies, splitting is receiving two cards of the same value and then being given the option to split these two cards into two separate hands, from which you will receive two new cards from the dealer. Online casinos may allow you to do this, but most in-person casinos will not allow you to do so. After hitting, you cannot double down. Hitting is the act of taking another card from the deck. A rule states that doubling down can only be done after the initial two cards are dealt. Conclusion If you think that your hand has a much better chance of winning, you can double down and make an extra wager. Of course, it will cost you double the amount you were planning to bet, so you'll risk more. Some games allow you to double down on a split pair as well, where, for example, if you are dealt a pair of 10s, and the dealer shows a 3, 4, 5, or 6, you can split your tens, double down on them both, and aim to make 21 with both hands. The downside to doubling down is that there is still some risk involved. The dealer always goes after the players and has more information at his disposal. Because of this, the house has a slight advantage over the players. Lastly, it's good to know that only the player's stake will be returned if there's a tie. If you have more questions about when to double down in blackjack, check the questions below. FAQ Do you always double down on 11? Although there are some theoretical situations where you shouldn't double down on 11, depending on the particular table rules, you can keep things simple and always double down on 11. In the long run, there is no doubt that this move will turn out to be profitable. Do you double down on an 11 against a 10? The player is in a strong position when holding 11 after two cards have been dealt because the player and dealer are trying to get close to 21. Therefore, doubling down is a good idea when the dealer shows a lower card than a 10. Should you double down on 12? Yes, you should double down on 12 because to double down, you need to have a hand value of 10 or 11 in order to make sense of the strategy. Considering that there's a 30.7% chance of you hitting another 10-value card and making a high hand in this situation. Can you double down after hitting? No, there are practically no blackjack games in which you can double down after hitting. Should you double down on 10? No, you should always double down when you hold ten and the dealer holds a card lower than seven. However, you shouldn't double your bet if the dealer also has 10 or 11. The value of doubling or not will be fairly equal if they have 7, 8, or 9. Can you double down after splitting? Once you have split your cards in most casinos, you won't be able to double your bet once you have done so. However, a few casinos, especially online ones, allow split hands to be doubled. Use the same logic for each split hand you used for your initial hand if this is the case. When you double down in blackjack, what number of cards do you receive? The extra card you receive when you double down is the only one. New players in the game of blackjack make the mistake of believing that they will receive as many cards as they like. If a low card is dealt, doubling down the blackjack bet could result in a low total.

The Kelly Criterion is a mathematical formula that can be used to make the most of your bets, whether in gambling or investing. In this blog post, we provide you with all the necessary information to understand this concept. We'll go over the basic principles and origins and give you simple examples to see how you can apply the Kelly Criterion to your betting tactics.  The Math Behind It? Using the Kelly Criterion is a strategy that balances the risk of losing with the potential for profitability, guiding you to bet a portion of your funds that corresponds to the probability of winning. It was formulated in 1956 by John L. Kelly Jr., a researcher at Bell Labs. Kelly, originally focusing on long-distance telephone signal noise, unexpectedly created a system that found its most significant applications in sports betting and finance.  The core of the Kelly Criterion is its formula, which can be expressed as: f*= bp-qb f*represents the fraction of your bankroll to bet b is the net odds received on the bet (expressed as b:1) p is the probability of winning q is the probability of losing, which is 1-p Simply put, the formula can be expressed as the given odds multiplied by the probability of winning, subtracting the probability of a loss and that total divided by the odds.? Can Kelly Criterion Be Used in Casino Games? The essence of the Kelly Criterion betting is to wager a portion of your bankroll based on your edge in a given wager. However, in casino games, this becomes impractical due to the inherent house edge present in these games. Unlike skill-based betting, where the player can have an edge, online casino games are designed to give the house an advantage. This means that the return to player (RTP) is never 100%, leading to a situation where the Kelly Criterion would consistently suggest a negative betting percentage. Using the Formula in Sports Betting This approach is especially well-suited to making sports bets. If you manage to properly provide values needed for applying the Kelly Criterion formula, you should always get an optimal percentage of your bankroll needed for the bet to be profitable. Here are some examples of how you can use it in different sports.  Kelly Criterion in Football Betting When betting on football, the odds and probabilities can vary significantly depending on the matchup, league, and other factors such as team form, injuries, and historical performance. Let's consider a hypothetical scenario where you're betting on a team with odds of 3:1 (meaning b = 3) and you estimate the probability of your team winning at 50% (p = 0.5). The probability of losing (q) would be 50% (1-p = 0.5).  Plugging these values into the Kelly formula would look like this: f*= (30.5) - 0.53 = 1.5-0.53 = 0.333 This result suggests that you should bet approximately 33.3% of your bankroll on this football match to optimize your bankroll growth. Kelly in Basketball Betting Basketball betting, with its dynamic odds and frequent scoring, presents unique opportunities for applying the Kelly Criterion. Suppose you find a game where the odds are 2.5:1 ( b = 2.5) and you believe the probability of your chosen team winning is 55% (p = 0.55). Consequently, the probability of losing (q) is 45% (1 - p = 0.45). In application, it would look like this: f*= (2.50.55) - 0.452.5 = 1.375-0.452.5 = 0.37 This calculation indicates that you should allocate 37% of your bankroll to this bet. Applying the Formula in Tennis Betting Let's say you're betting on a tennis match. You have odds of 2:1 (so b=2), and you believe the probability of your chosen player winning is 60% (p=0.6). Therefore, the probability of losing (q) is 40% (1 - 0.6 = 0.4). If we use these numbers for the Kelly formula, we get: f*= (20.6) - 0.42 = 1.2-0.42 = 0.4 This result suggests that you should bet 40% of your bankroll on this match for optimal profit growth. Half, Third, and Quarter Kelly Adjusting the Kelly Criterion by betting a fraction of the recommended amount, like half (?), a third (?), or a quarter (?) Kelly, is a common strategy to manage further risks. These variations help in smoothing the volatility in your bankroll while still adhering to the principles of the Kelly Criterion. Here are a couple of reasons why bettors choose to employ this strategy.  Reduced volatility: By betting a fraction (like half) of what Kelly suggests, you reduce the fluctuations in your bankroll, leading to a more stable growth pattern. Less aggressive betting: This approach involves fewer initial bets and can be more suitable for those who are risk-averse or new to using the Kelly Criterion. Balance between growth and safety: Fractional Kelly strategies are the sweet spot between maximizing growth and protecting your bankroll from significant drops. What are Kelly Criterion Calculators?? For those looking to get serious about this strategy, Kelly Criterion calculators are a valuable tool. They simplify the process of determining the optimal bet size, eliminating the need for complex manual calculations. To use a Kelly Criterion betting calculator, you typically need to input the odds of the bet, your estimated probability of winning, and sometimes the total bankroll you are willing to bet. The calculator then uses the Kelly formula to determine the optimal bet size as a percentage of your bankroll. A key feature in many of these calculators is the Kelly multiplier. This is an adjustable factor that allows you to bet a fraction of the amount suggested by the pure Kelly Criterion, often used as a way to reduce risk. As mentioned above, this multiplier can be half, a third, or a quarter. For the full Kelly Criterion number, use a multiplier of 1.  Pros and Cons? The method is primarily aimed at enhancing the long-term growth of your betting bankroll, simultaneously working to reduce the risk of depleting all your betting funds. By using this criterion, bettors make informed decisions and align their betting strategies with the goal of long-term profitability while avoiding the pursuit of immediate, high-risk gains. There are several advantages to using the Kelly Criterion: Guides optimal bet sizing: This is crucial for maximizing the growth of your bankroll over an extended period. Emphasizes risk management: By recommending that only a portion of your bankroll should be placed on any given bet, it mitigates the likelihood of significant losses. Focus on long-term strategy: This makes it an ideal approach for disciplined bettors who are in it for sustainable gains rather than quick, risky wins. However, the Kelly Criterion is not without its drawbacks: Challenging to estimate winning probabilities accurately: Overestimation, for instance, can lead to overly aggressive betting and potential financial setbacks. Complex calculations: This is particularly the case in dynamic betting scenarios, and might demotivate some bettors. Understanding the percentages in Kelly Criterion betting is crucial for effective application. The formula's result, expressed as a percentage, indicates the recommended portion of your bankroll to wager. A positive value implies favorable odds and suggests that a bet is advisable. The higher the percentage, the stronger your edge is perceived, indicating a larger bet. Conversely, a negative or zero value signifies unfavorable odds, advising against placing the bet.  Minimize Your Betting Risk with Kelly Criterion Formula The Kelly Criterion betting approach stands as a beacon for bettors seeking a balanced method of managing their bankroll. This formula is not just about maximizing returns; it's equally focused on minimizing risk, ensuring you don't put your entire bankroll at stake. Its application in betting scenarios, especially in sports betting, is relatively straightforward, making it accessible even for those who are new to this concept.  So, if you're looking to optimize your betting strategy while keeping risks in check, consider implementing the Kelly Criterion to your next wager. It's a step toward more disciplined, calculated, and potentially profitable betting experiences.

Welcome to the world of casinos, where the chips are stacked, the dice are rolled, and the thrill of the game is all around you. Understanding the unique casino language can make all the difference in your experience, regardless of your skill level.  From the basics of betting and house edge to the more advanced strategies of card counting and the Martingale system, this guide will take you on a journey through essential casino terms.  Basic Gambling Terms Let's start with the basics because you're bound to come across the following terms, no matter if you play brick-and-mortar or online casinos.  House Edge The house edge is the casino's statistical advantage over the player in a given game. It represents the percentage of each wager that the casino expects to win in the long run. Action This term can be described as the heartbeat of the casino floor. The sound of chips clacking, dice rolling, and card shuffling all constitute the rhythm of the action. And with every turn, every roll, and every deal, the excitement rises until someone hits the jackpot. Wager In the context of casinos, a wager refers to the act of placing a bet on the outcome of a game or event. Bet Bet is one of the most common terms in casino lingo. It refers to a single wager in a game. It also means risking or gambling a specific amount of money because the outcome of the game is unknown.  Payout The payout is the magical moment when the stars align and you hear the sweet sound of coins clanging together as the machine spits out your winnings. It's a beautiful thing, really. Bankroll A bankroll refers to the funds available for betting purposes. Players should practice good bankroll management to avoid losing their money fast.  Jackpot A casino game's jackpot is the top prize that a lucky player wins. Jackpots can be set amounts or progressive, which means they increase until someone finally wins. It's the grand prize, the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, the holy grail of gambling. Will you be lucky enough to catch it? Chips In casino terminology, chips are little round tokens that represent cash. Players use them to place wagers and cash out winnings. Chips come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, and they have a specific weight to them. Moreover, if you win big, you get to experience the joy of scooping up a pile of chips and feeling like a high roller. Dealer A dealer is a casino staff member who controls the game and deals cards or spins the wheel. They're calm, cool, and collected and have eyes in the back of their head (or so it seems). Just don't let their soothing voice and friendly smile fool you—they're after your money. Croupier The croupier is like the fancier, more sophisticated cousin of the dealer. They're the ones you'll find at high roller tables, wearing a tuxedo and looking sharp. They exude confidence and class, and they're there to make you feel like a VIP. House Rules All casino games are played according to a certain set of rules known as "house rules." This gambling slang refers to the rules that everyone has to play by to ensure fairness and consistency. Different casinos and games may have different regulations. Marker A casino may extend credit to a player in the form of a marker. When money is no longer an option, players can use a marker to keep playing. It's the casino's way of saying, "We trust you (to a certain extent)." It's a convenient way to keep playing when you're running low on cash, but beware—it's still real money that you'll have to pay back. Pit Boss A pit boss is a casino employee who manages several table games in a specific area of the casino. They oversee everything that's going on, from the dealers and players to the security team. They're the ones you want to impress if you're hoping to score some free drinks or other perks. Shoe In a casino game, a shoe is a container used to carry several decks of cards. During the game, the dealer or croupier removes cards from the shoe and deals them to the players. Surrender Surrendering in gambling terminology is like saying, "I'm waving the white flag." It's a way for players to cut their losses and salvage some of their money. Think of it as a strategic retreat because sometimes it's better to live to fight another day. Tilt It's that feeling of frustration and desperation that can set in when you're on a losing streak. It's the moment when you start making irrational bets and taking unnecessary risks. Tilt can be a player's worst enemy, but it can also be a wake-up call to take a break. Blackjack Terms Let's shuffle the cards and dive into the world of blackjack terminology. Split Splitting is an option that's available when a player is dealt a pair of cards with the same rank, such as two 7s. The player can choose to split the cards into two separate hands, with each hand having its own bet. It's a way to increase the chances of winning and turn a losing hand into a winning one. Paint In casino lingo, "paint" refers to any card with a picture on it, i.e., king, queen, or jack. This term is often used in blackjack. For instance, if a dealer tells you that you've got "paint," it means you've been dealt a face card. Double Down Doubling down is available when a player is certain that they have a strong hand. The player can choose to double their original bet and receive only one additional card. It's a way to maximize the potential payout and turn a good hand into a great one. Craps Terms Craps is a high-energy, fast-paced game of chance that has become a common game in many casinos around the world, especially American, so let's go over some key terms. Hardway You have to roll the exact pair of numbers to get a hardway combination. That means betting on the 4, 6, 8, or 10 as a pair, such as two 2s or two 5s, which is considered "hard." When they're not rolled as a pair, they're considered "easy." The goal is to bet that the dice will land "hard" before they land "easy" or before a 7 is rolled.  Big 6 and Big 8 In craps, it's another term for bets placed on the 6 or 8 to be rolled before a 7. While they have a higher payout than a bet on the 6 or 8, they also have a higher house edge and are considered a sucker bet by more experienced craps players. Poker Slang Are you looking to brush up on your poker vocabulary and understand the casino talk used in the game? Let's go over some of the most common ones. Ante Ante is the price of admission to the poker party. Just like a VIP ticket to your favorite concert, the ante gets you a seat at the table and a shot at the big prizes. Bluff Bluffing in poker is like being a master of disguise! It's a strategy that involves making a bet or a raise with a weak hand in an attempt to manipulate your opponents into thinking that you have a strong hand. It's a way to gain an advantage over your opponents and win the pot even when you don't have the best cards. Nuts Nuts is the best possible hand at any given moment in a particular game. Knowing that you have the nuts can give you a significant advantage in the game, as it means that you can't be beaten. It's a rare accomplishment that every poker player dreams of. Rake In gaming terminology, rake is the percentage of the pot that the casino takes as a fee for hosting the game. The rake can vary depending on the stakes and the casino, but it's typically around 5% of the pot. While the rake can seem like a nuisance to players, it's a necessary part of the game that helps to keep the casino in business. Flop The flop is the first three community cards that are dealt face up in the middle of the table in games like Texas hold'em. The flop is a critical point in the game, as it gives players a glimpse of the potential strength of their hand and helps them make strategic decisions about whether to fold or continue playing. Fish A fish, in poker, refers to an inexperienced player who often makes mistakes and loses money. More experienced players might look for "fish" at the table as an opportunity to win more pots. Shark A "shark" in poker is a highly skilled player who preys on less experienced or weaker players, much like a shark in the ocean. These players often have a deep understanding of the game and are able to read their opponents well. Slot Machine Terms Slots are the beloved games of chance that draw players in with their flashing lights, mesmerizing sounds, and thrilling jackpots. Understanding key terms that define the game is essential if you want to learn how to master the slots. Reels They're the spinning cylinders that contain the symbols in a slot machine. With every spin, the reels dance and twirl, building anticipation along the way. They're the heart and soul of the slot machine and the key to winning big. Paylines Casino slang wouldn't be complete without mentioning paylines, which are like the treasure map to the jackpot. They're the lines that run across the reels of a slot machine, determining the winning combinations. With each spin, you're hoping to land on a winning payline and earn big bucks. Scatter Symbols Scatter symbols are symbols that can appear anywhere on the reels and pay out regardless of whether they're on a payline or not. They're like the little jokers in the deck, adding a bit of excitement and unpredictability to the game. Wild Symbols Wild symbols can stand in for any other symbol on the reels to create a winning combination. They're like the secret weapon that can turn a losing spin into a winning streak. Progressive Jackpots A progressive jackpot continues to grow as more players place bets, often reaching astronomical sums of money. They're the ultimate goal for every slot machine player, and the chance to hit one is like winning the lottery. Video Slots Without a doubt, video slots are the flashy machines that bring the party to the casino floor. With their vibrant graphics, catchy music, and bonus features, they're like a non-stop concert that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Advanced Casino Terms and Phrases These advanced casino expressions are for the daring, adventurous, and thrill-seeking. From the infamous card counting strategy to the mysterious world of whales, these terms will take you on a wild ride through the inner workings of the casino world. Card Counting Card counting is a strategy used in blackjack and other card games that entails keeping track of the cards dealt to determine the likelihood of specific cards remaining in the deck. It requires quick thinking, a sharp memory, and nerves of steel. Just don't let the casino catch you in the act. Martingale Strategy The Martingale strategy is a betting system that involves doubling your bet after each loss in an attempt to recoup your losses and come out on top. It takes guts, determination, and a bit of luck to make the Martingale strategy work. Comps Comps are perks that casinos offer to players as a way of saying "thanks for playing." Think free drinks, meals, hotel stays, and even tickets for different shows. It's the casino's way of keeping players happy and coming back for more. High Roller A high roller is like the king or queen of the gambling world. They're the ones who bet big, win big, and get all the perks and attention that come with it. They exude confidence, charisma, and a certain je ne sais quoi that makes them the envy of the casino floor. Vigorish (or "Vig") Vigorish, or "the vig," in gambling slang is like the price of admission to the casino world. It's the fee that the casino charges for taking bets, and it's how they make money. Expected Value The expected value is the mathematical calculation that determines the average outcome of a bet in the long run. It takes into account the odds of winning and losing, as well as the potential payout. It's a key tool for making strategic betting decisions. Kelly Criterion It's a mathematical strategy that helps players determine the optimal amount to bet based on the perceived advantage and potential payout. It's a way to minimize risk while maximizing potential winnings. Random Number Generator A random number generator, or RNG, is a computer program that ensures that the outcomes of games are random and fair. It's like the invisible hand that guides the spinning of the slot machine reels and the shuffling of the deck. Whale A whale is a high roller who bets enormous sums of money and commands the attention and admiration of the casino staff. They're the ones who can make or break a casino's bottom line, and they're treated like royalty on the casino floor. Funny Gambling Terms Get ready to laugh out loud and roll the dice with these hilarious and unforgettable casino expressions! Sucker Bet This term describes a bet with a high house edge and low odds of winning, but it's often enticing to inexperienced players who don't know any better. It's like the candy at the checkout line, tempting you to make an impulse buy that you'll later regret. Monkey A monkey in casino slang is like the wild card at the table. It's a term for a $500 chip, often used in high stakes games. Cooler A cooler is a person who's believed to bring bad luck to the game, often causing other players to lose. It's like the black cat that crosses your path or the broken mirror that foreshadows disaster. Grind The grind is the strategy of slowly and steadily accumulating winnings over time, often through small bets and careful risk management. Belly Buster A belly buster, in gambling terms, refers to a specific type of poker hand known as an inside straight draw or a gutshot straight draw. A belly buster occurs when a player has four consecutive cards with a gap in the middle and needs the fifth card to complete the straight. The odds of success are rather low because it's a challenging draw.  George A George is the ideal player from the dealer's point of view. This term refers to a player who tips well and consistently. So, if you want to be popular among the casino staff, try being a George. Summary of Casino Terms  All in all, while the world of casinos can seem overwhelming with its unique terms, taking the time to understand them can greatly improve your gaming sessions. By familiarizing yourself with these expressions, you'll be better equipped to navigate the excitement of the gaming floor (or virtual floor) and enjoy all that casinos have to offer.  If you're a sports bettor, you might also be interested in our glossary of sports betting terms. So go ahead and roll the dice, spin the wheel, and ante up armed with your newfound knowledge of casino terms.

From the very modest beginnings, starting in 1972, when five players competed in the Intergalactic Spacewar Olympics and the winner received a one-year subscription to Rolling Stone, we've reached the point where the biggest eSports tournaments are on the brink of becoming Olympic sports. The crucial trial period could be during this year’s Asian Games. The eSports program will include eight medal events and two demonstration events, with competitions being held in: Dota 2 League of Legends FIFA Arena of Valor Dream of the Three Kingdoms 2 Hearthstone PUBG Mobile Street Fighter V eSports Tournaments The biggest eSports tournament on arcade games occurred in 1980 on one of the most famous arcade games in history, Space Invaders. The tournament had over 10,000 participants. In 1993, Doom's four-player deathmatch created the groundwork for online multiplayer games like Halo, Call of Duty, and Overwatch. However, when we think about eSports in today’s terms, the starting point was Quake’s Red Annihilation online tournament in 1997. The development of Twitch in 2011 was a game changer. It had 3.2 million visitors a month when it launched. A year later, that number exploded to 20 million. Finally, these tournaments had a platform where they could attract bigger crowds. From that point on, some of the biggest eSports events took place in quite well-known venues like: Arthur Ashe Stadium Staples Centre Wembley Arena Sang-am World Cup Stadium The International Without a doubt, the biggest eSports events are for Dota 2. And, the International has no match regarding prize pools, considering that last year, the tournament surpassed $40 million in awards. The International currently holds the top six positions for the biggest eSports Tournaments’ prize pools. Originally hosted in 2011 as a promotional event for the game, the International has been held every year since, except in 2020, when it was postponed due to the global pandemic of COVID-19. Since 2013, the game's battle pass system has crowdfunded the prize pool. In the first ten competitions, the tournament had either 16 or 18 teams participating, but the format expanded in 2022. From the 8th to the 30th of October, the International 2022 will be the longest Dota 2 tournament to date. In addition, through the last chance qualifier, more teams will be added to the TI11 roster. Through the Last Chance Qualifiers round, the second and third-place finishers in each region will be able to fight for a seat on the main stage in one last LAN event, increasing the total number of teams from 18 to 20. After the LCQ concludes, the group stage will begin, with all 20 teams competing for the 16 available playoff positions. League of Legends World Championship The League of Legends World Championship is one of the world's most renowned and watched events. It's also the video game that receives the most attention from viewers across the globe. The success peaked in 2018 when 99.6 million people saw the final, and the prize pool was 6.45 million. More frequently referred to as Worlds, the Championship is the pinnacle of the annual professional League of Legends season. Teams battle against one another for the champion title, a Summoner's Cup trophy weighing 70 pounds, and a multi-million dollar prize. The 2022 League of Legends World Championship is the twelfth iteration of this championship, organized by the game's developers at Riot Games. This year's event will take place from September 29 through November 5. Four venues in: Mexico City Atlanta San Francisco New York City Twenty-four teams from 11 regions earned a spot in the tournament through regional circuits in China, Europe, North America, South Korea, and Taiwan/Hong Kong/Macau/Southeast Asia. Twelve teams had to compete in a play-in round to get to the main event. The group stage will separate teams into four groups of four, and the knockout stage will start with the quarterfinals. The 2022 prize pool is over $2.2 million. Call of Duty League In the 2022 season, 12 teams will compete in four Majors using a combination of online and LAN formats. Each Major tournament will take place over the course of four weeks, with the first three weeks consisting of each team competing in online qualification matches against five other randomly chosen teams. Following these three weeks, the rankings will be used to seed the teams into the main tournament, with the four worst teams moving to the Elimination Bracket. The League started on January 21 and will end on August 7. A Pro-am event will occur in the middle of the season, matching professional players against amateur players. In addition, a Call of Duty: Warzone tournament that will include Call of Duty League pro players, broadcasters, and other influencers will also be arranged. The Call of Duty League (CDL) is an esports competition run by the game publisher Activision. In 2019, the League was announced, and the first season began in 2020. The prize pool for the 2022 World Title is $2.55 million. You'll recognize the format if you're a fan of conventional North American professional sports leagues or the Overwatch League. Participants are city-based franchises financed by separate ownership groups. The League uses a tournament point system and playoff format, with players on the roster guaranteed a minimum annual salary and benefits, as well as a portion of winnings and revenue-sharing based on how well the team performs. Fortnite World Cup If there's one game that skyrocketed in record time, from game release to the point of having one of the biggest eSports tournaments, then that is Fortnite. This year, for the first time since 2019, Epic is holding an in-person Fortnite competition. The creators announced the FNCS Invitational 2022, to be held in Raleigh, North Carolina, on the 12th and 13th of November. A total prize pool of $1 million will be up for grabs. During ten weekly qualifying events, players will be divided into five groups depending on the region they play in. The top 100 solo and 50 duo players will qualify for the Fortnite World Cup finals. There will be ten weekly Qualifier events. The top 100 solo and top 50 duo players will qualify for the Fortnite World Cup Finals. Namely, players will be divided into five groups depending on their region. The competition will begin with the Arena mode, where competitors must collect points to reach the Open event. During Stage 2 of The Fortnite Open, players will have three hours and up to ten matches to score the most points they can. Afterward, a group of elite players will go to the Open Finals. In the final stages, top players from every region will again have the same time frame of three hours and ten matches to score as many points as possible. Epic will then decide who is eligible for awards. Fortnite secured the largest individual prize win of any eSports athlete. Kyle Giersdorf, known as Bugha, was 16 years old when he won $3 million after a 10-week competition between April and June 2019. Valorant Champions The 2022 Valorant Champions is an impending eSports tournament for the Valorant video game by Riot Games. It's the culminating event of the 2022 Valorant Champions Tour, the second iteration of this tournament. The competition is scheduled to take place in Istanbul, Turkey, between September 2nd and 18th, 2022. The total prize pool for the tour is $3.3 million. In November 2020, Riot Games announced the first ever Valorant Champions Tour. It was held in Berlin's Verti Music Hall between the 1st and 12th of December. In 2021, the VCT attracted over 10,000 teams. In February of the same year, it was announced that the VCT Game Changers would be an additional tournament program for women and other marginalized communities. As the lowest division, Challengers were to be divided into six zones. If a team makes it through Challengers, they will progress to Masters, where they will no longer be separated into regions, and the top 16 teams from Masters will continue to Champions, the final event of VCT. The format of VCT was reworked for the second season. Namely, the number of stages in Challengers and Masters tournaments was lowered from three to two, although the basic structure of Challengers, Masters, and Champions remained the same. Challengers and Masters tournaments contribute to teams' overall circuit points. In stage two of Masters, 16 teams proceed to the VCT's global championship tournament, which is held annually. There's a Last Chance Qualifier tournament for the last four teams, and the winner of the Stage Two Masters qualifies automatically. Honor of Kings World Champion Cup The Honor of Kings is a multiplayer online battle arena for the iOS and Android mobile platforms. The tournament has yet to be announced, but it is expected to be at the end of 2022. For the first time since 2020, the Honor of Kings World Champion Cup 2022 will involve teams from outside the United States, where 16 teams will compete for the $10 million prize pool. The tournament's form of participation is also still up in the air. It may be held online or offline, depending on the general circumstances and travel limitations. However, since the Honor of Kings World Champion Cup is an S-tier event and so costly, it's likely to be hosted offline like the majority of tournaments right now. An unprecedented amount of $10 million in prize money will be awarded in this event, making it one of the most lucrative in the history of mobile gaming. The PUBG Mobile Global Championship (PMGC) has a prize pool of $6 million, which puts it in second place in the mobile gaming industry. In previous years, the Honor of Kings World Champions Cup already had big prize pools, ranging from 4.5 and 4.6 million dollars in 2019 and 2020 to 7.7 million in 2021. EVO Championship Series Maybe it isn't among the biggest eSports tournaments, but not many will leave out EVO when it comes to historical significance. In the esports world, the Evolution Championship Series is a yearly competition devoted exclusively to fighting games. Like in Super Battle Opera, participants from across the globe participate in this event, mainly from Japan. The Battle by the Bay was the initial name of the inaugural Evolution, which included Super Street Fighter II Turbo and Street Fighter Alpha 2. In 2002, the event's name was shortened to Evolution Championship Series or EVO. The number of people attending each tournament has steadily increased over time. Since 2005, it has occurred at several Las Vegas Valley locations. Sony Interactive Entertainment and Endeavor esports venture RTS will control the event jointly starting in 2021. In 2022, the Evolution Championship Series will return to the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas for EVO 2022, which will take place between the 5th and 7th of August. Last year, the prize pool for 26 tournaments was $168,500. In Sunnyvale, California, a 40-player Super Street Fighter II Turbo and Street Fighter Alpha 2 tournament called Battle by the Bay kicked off the competition in 1996. Since its inception, the competition has grown, with more than 1,000 players in 2009. In 2004, the decision was made to switch from arcades to console versions. Other than official competitions, there's a BYOC (Bring Your Own Console) section where many other games are played and side events are hosted. PUBG Global Championship The PUBG Global Championship is the culmination of the 2022 Competitive Season and is considered the World Championship for the game. The best 32 teams throughout the year will compete from November 1 until December 1. The PMGC 2022 boasts a $4 million prize pool, a decrease of $2 million from last year. With the PMWI in August and the addition of the game to the postponed Asian Games, the schedule is different than in earlier years. The PMGC 2022 will include the best teams from each Pro League (PMPL). Thirteen Pro Leagues are organized between June 20 and October 2. The top teams will participate in the Americas, Europe, Middle East, Africa, South East Asia, and South Asia PMPL Regional Championships. From the PMGC launch in 2020, Tencent couldn't host it as a LAN event due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For the first time ever, after the imminent PUBG Mobile World Invitational (PMWI) and a better COVID-19 situation, PUBG fans are hoping for an offline event for the biggest event of the year. The PUBG Mobile World Invitational will be held in Riyadh from August 11 to August 20. Twenty teams will battle for $3 million in Saudi Arabia. Week one of the PMWI features the main event, where 20 teams will compete for $2 million. During the second week, The Afterparty Showdown will be played, where the top five teams from week one, six regional teams, and one special invite will participate. Overwatch League Blizzard Entertainment's Overwatch League (OWL) is a professional eSports league for the video game Overwatch. The Overwatch League, like its Call of Duty counterpart, also follows the model of North American professional leagues. Twenty city-based teams, backed by ownership groups, began signing free agents to contracts for the 2022 season in October 2021. March 1 was the deadline for all teams to have a minimum of six players signed to season-long contracts. Like in the NFL or NBA, teams compete in the regular season to reach the playoffs. At BlizzCon 2016, it was revealed that its first season would begin in 2018, with a total prize pool of $3.5 million. Throughout the years, this amount remained in the same vicinity. Before the 2022 season, the maximum number of players on a team stayed at 12, while the minimum was six. Therefore, the players' minimum salary was raised from $50,000 to $50,700. The 2022 Overwatch League season is the fifth iteration. The season is played on an early version of Overwatch 2, unlike the prior four seasons, which were played on Overwatch. It began on May 5, and the champion will be known by October 22. Apex Legends Global Series Championship Electronic Arts and Respawn Entertainment announced the Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS) in 2019, with the first season beginning in 2020–21. The series uses a promotion and relegation format throughout the seasons, culminating in the ALGS Championship. The prize pool for the inaugural season was $2.58 million, and it was increased to $5 million for the second season. EA and Respawn expanded for the 2021–22 season, allowing Xbox and PlayStation players to compete. The competition consists of three phases: Split One Split Two ALGS Championship Five regional Pro Leagues constitute splits North America, EMEA, APAC South, APAC North, and South America. In each Pro League, 40 teams come through online qualifications and direct invitations based on prior performance. Then a total of 40 teams advance to the split Playoffs. Split Two playoff winners and Last Chance Qualifier event winners will proceed to the ALGS Championship match. Counter-Strike Global Offensive WESG had a $1.5 million prize pool in 2016 and 2017. After that, however, the primacy was taken over by PGL. The PGL Major Antwerp 2022, also known as PGL Major 2022 or Antwerp 2022, was the seventeenth Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) Major championship. In Sportpaleis, twenty-four teams competed in the event between May 9 and May 22, with the majority qualifying via their respective regional competitions. It had a prize fund of US$1,000,000, half of what it was in 2021. FaZe Clan, the first foreign CS:GO team to win a Major, took the trophy, finishing above 23 other teams. The format was set in three stages: The Challengers Stage featured a 16-team Swiss System Format, with the Buchholz system and initial seeds used to seed matches. The top eight teams advanced to the Legends Stage, while the bottom eight teams were eliminated. The Legends Stage used the same format and seeding system as the Challenger Stage. Finally, in the Champions Stage, eight teams battled in a Single-Elimination bracket, seeded using the final rankings from the Legends Stage. FAQ Is there a dress code at eSports competitions? Competitors must wear official team uniforms during all on-site matches and interviews at major eSports championships. The logos must be visible at all times, and hoodies are not permitted. Other than approved headsets, they're prohibited from wearing headgear or face masks. What types of games do eSports include? An eSport is any video game in which a player competes against another person. A few of the most popular esports game types are: Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas Battle Royales Real-Time Strategy Games First Person Shooters Fighting Games Sports Games Which are the best channels to watch live eSports games? The best place to watch the biggest eSports tournaments is probably Twitch.tv. This site is geared toward gamers who share their gaming experiences. YouTube Gaming users also have the option to broadcast their bouts.