Counter-Strike Dominates Esports Betting as Wagers Increase: Report

October 25, 2024 World Esports

Counter-Strike continues to hold the title of the most favored game among esports bettors, according to a recent report from esports data provider Abios. The game has achieved a remarkable 58% share of the total betting handle, outpacing other titles such as League of Legends, Dota 2, Valorant, and Call of Duty.

In the third quarter of 2024, major Counter-Strike events contributed significantly to this dominance. Notable tournaments like ESL Pro League, which accounted for 14% of the betting handle, Blast Premier at 13%, and Intel Extreme Masters at 9% collectively drove over one-third of the total betting volume for the year.

Moreover, the report highlighted a 6 percent increase in the average size of esports wagers since 2020.

This aligns with estimates from Eilers & Krejcik, which previously set the average esports bet at around $27 during the latter half of 2020. If the current trend continues, the average wager has now risen by nearly $2, indicating that as the Gen Z demographic matures, they are likely to have more disposable income for entertainment.

What sets Counter Strike betting market apart?

Betting on Counter-Strike involves placing wagers on match outcomes, player performances, or specific in-game events. Bettors can use traditional currency or trade in-game items known as skins, which can be valued significantly based on rarity.

This dual currency system adds an exciting dimension, as skins can be traded or sold for real money, making them an appealing option for many players. The integration of skins into betting has created a vibrant market, attracting both gamers and gamblers alike

Valorant and In-play betting

Valorant is also gaining traction in the betting space, with its share increasing from 2% to 5% in Q3 2024 compared to the same quarter last year. This upward trajectory indicates growing interest and engagement from bettors.

Abios’ report emphasized the importance of in-play betting, which constituted 53% of the total betting handle during Q3.

This figure represents a slight decline from the 60% recorded in the previous quarter. Dota 2 players, in particular, have been significant contributors, as 63% of their game’s betting handle in Q3 came from in-play wagers.

Despite the positive trends in other games, the International tournament saw a notable decline in interest, with only 3% of the total betting handle attributed to it in Q3 2024. This drop raises questions about the tournament’s current appeal among bettors.

While Abios’ Q3 report did not delve into the geographic distribution of esports betting, previous data revealed that Europe remains the dominant market, contributing 71% of the total betting handle in Q2 2024.

Meanwhile, both Oceania and Latin America saw significant increases, accounting for 13% and 10% of the betting volume, respectively, compared to their usual share of 6-8%.

Overall, the landscape of esports betting is evolving, with Counter-Strike firmly at the forefront and emerging titles like Valorant making strides. As the demographics of bettors change and markets diversify, the future of esports betting looks promising.