Complete Beginner's Guide to eSports Betting

What is eSports Betting?

eSports betting allows you to place wagers on the outcomes of competitive video game matches. Just like traditional sports betting, you can bet on match winners, map scores, and a wide range of in-game events.

The eSports betting market has grown explosively, with billions wagered annually across titles like CS2, League of Legends, Dota 2, and Valorant.

Understanding Odds

Before placing your first bet, you need to understand how odds work. There are three common formats:

Decimal Odds (European)

The most common format for eSports betting. The number shows your total return per $1 wagered.

1.50 odds: Bet $100, return $150 (profit $50)
2.00 odds: Bet $100, return $200 (profit $100)
3.50 odds: Bet $100, return $350 (profit $250)

How to Calculate Implied Probability

Divide 1 by the decimal odds: 1 / 1.50 = 0.667 = 66.7%

This tells you the probability implied by the odds. If you think the true probability is higher than the implied probability, that’s a value bet.

Choosing a Bookmaker

When selecting an eSports bookmaker, consider these factors:

Market coverage: Does it cover the games and tournaments you follow?
Odds quality: Compare odds across bookmakers for the same market
Licensing: Is it licensed by a reputable authority?
Payment options: Does it support your preferred deposit/withdrawal methods?
Welcome bonus: What bonus is offered for new players?

Check our best eSports betting sites for our top-rated bookmakers.

Common eSports Betting Markets

Match Winner

The simplest bet — pick which team will win the match.

Map Handicap

One team is given a map advantage/disadvantage. Example: NAVI -1.5 maps means they need to win 2-0 for your bet to win.

Total Maps (Over/Under)

Bet on whether the total number of maps played will be over or under a set number.

First Blood / First Kill

Bet on which team will score the first kill in a map.

Bankroll Management

The most important skill in betting is managing your money:

Set a budget: Only bet what you can afford to lose
Unit system: Use 1-3% of your bankroll per bet
Track your bets: Keep a record of every wager
Don’t chase losses: Stick to your strategy

Getting Started

Choose a bookmaker from our recommended list
Create an account and claim your welcome bonus
Start with small stakes on games you know well
Read our tips for match predictions
Always bet responsibly

Next Steps

Read our Understanding Betting Markets guide
Check today’s betting tips
Compare odds across bookmakers