Esports betting has exploded in popularity, with global revenues expected to hit $2.5 billion by 2027. Games like Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), League of Legends (LoL), and Dota 2 dominate the scene, offering thrilling opportunities for bettors. Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or a newcomer, this guide will teach you how to bet on esports like a pro.
Why Bet on Esports?
Unlike traditional sports, esports offers:
- 24/7 tournaments – Matches happen year-round
- Higher odds volatility – More opportunities for value bets
- Diverse markets – Bet on match winners, maps, kills, and more
Top 3 Esports for Betting (2025)
| Game | Major Tournaments | Avg. Betting Odds | Popular Bet Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| CS2 | IEM, Major Championships | 1.75-3.50 | Match winner, map handicap, total rounds |
| League of Legends | Worlds, MSI | 1.50-4.00 | First blood, tower destroy, outright winner |
| Dota 2 | The International | 2.00-5.00+ | Kill spreads, Roshan kills, player props |
How to Start Betting on Esports
1. Choose a Reputable Esports Betting Site
Look for:
- Licensed operators (e.g., Betway, GG.BET, Pinnacle)
- Live streaming options
- CS2/LoL/Dota 2-specific markets
2. Understand the Betting Markets
Most Profitable Esports Bets
- Moneyline: Simple match winner bets
- Handicaps: Covering spread bets in map/round differences
- Live betting: Higher odds during matches
Risky Bets to Avoid
- Long-term outright tournament winners
- Exotic props without research
- Chasing losses on underdogs
3. Analyze Teams and Meta Changes
Follow:
- Patch notes (game updates drastically affect odds)
- Team rosters at HLTV.org (CS2) or Liquipedia (LoL/Dota)
- Recent match history on EsportsEarnings
Game-Specific Betting Strategies
CS2 Betting Tips
- Focus on map advantages (some teams dominate specific maps)
- Watch pistol round stats – they often set match tempo
- Track player form (1.3+ rating players consistently outperform)
League of Legends Wagering
- Draft phase matters – 65% of pro games are won in champion select
- First Tower bet hits ~73% for favored teams
- Kill totals often go UNDER in meta shifts
Dota 2 Betting Guide
- Roshan kills predict game outcomes (82% correlation)
- Teamfight compositions > individual skill in current meta
- Late-game scaling teams cover +1.5 maps reliably
Esports Betting FAQ
Is esports betting legal?
Yes, in most regulated markets like the UK, EU, and licensed US states. Always check local laws.
What’s the minimum age to bet on esports?
Typically 18+, but some jurisdictions require bettors to be 21+.
How do CS2 skin betting sites work?
We recommend avoiding unregulated skin gambling sites due to scam risks. Stick to licensed cash betting platforms.
Ready to Start Betting on Esports?
Mastering esports betting requires understanding game mechanics, following the meta, and choosing the right markets. Start small with moneyline bets on CS2/LoL/Dota 2 matches, then expand to more complex wagers as you gain experience.
Pro Tip: Use our exclusive esports betting bonuses to maximize your bankroll when getting started.
