Esports Betting in 2025: Which Games Dominated and Which Lost Popularity?
Esports betting has evolved significantly over the past decade, with certain games rising to dominance while others fade into obscurity. As of February 2025, the industry is more competitive than ever, with bookmakers adjusting their offerings based on shifting player interest and betting volume. This article explores the most popular esports titles in betting markets today and the ones that have seen a decline.
Top Esports Games for Betting in 2025
The esports industry continues to thrive, but only a select few titles have managed to capture the highest betting activity. These games have shown resilience and growing audiences, solidifying their status in the betting world.
Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) – Following the transition from CS:GO, Counter-Strike 2 has cemented its position as the premier first-person shooter in esports betting. The game’s revamped mechanics, enhanced graphics, and regular updates keep bettors engaged, making it one of the most wagered-on titles globally.
League of Legends (LoL) – Riot Games’ flagship MOBA remains a betting favourite, thanks to its structured competitive calendar and loyal fan base. The League of Legends World Championship continues to attract millions of viewers and substantial betting turnover.
Valorant – As a direct competitor to CS2, Valorant has carved out a strong niche in the betting sector. With its growing international tournaments and strategic gameplay, it has become a go-to title for many bettors.
Why These Games Are Betting Favourites
The popularity of these esports titles in the betting world stems from their highly structured tournament systems, consistent match schedules, and widespread fan engagement. Regular updates and new content keep the games fresh, ensuring continued betting interest.
Another factor is the availability of diverse betting markets, including match winners, player statistics, and in-game events. Bookmakers favour games with high betting volume, leading to better odds and broader market coverage.
Additionally, these games benefit from extensive media coverage, further increasing their appeal to both casual and serious bettors. With major tournaments offering multi-million-dollar prize pools, betting activity naturally follows.
Esports Games That Have Declined in Popularity
While some games continue to dominate the esports betting market, others have struggled to maintain relevance. The following titles have seen a noticeable decline in betting interest in 2025.
Overwatch 2 – Blizzard’s attempt to revitalise its franchise has failed to maintain a solid esports following. Decreased tournament support and dwindling player engagement have resulted in fewer betting opportunities.
Dota 2 – Once a titan in esports betting, Dota 2 has faced challenges in retaining its audience. The decline of The International’s prize pool and fewer high-profile tournaments have led to reduced betting activity.
Apex Legends – While still popular among casual players, Apex Legends has struggled to maintain a competitive scene that attracts serious bettors. A lack of consistent high-stakes tournaments has contributed to its decline.
Reasons for the Decline
The primary reason behind the decline of these games in betting markets is a lack of sustained developer support and tournament organisation. Without major leagues and consistent competition, betting engagement naturally drops.
Additionally, player base stagnation has played a role. Games with declining active players often see lower viewership, leading to diminished betting interest. Bettors prefer games with strong, evolving competitive scenes.
Another crucial factor is the rise of alternative esports titles. As new games emerge and attract sponsorship deals, older titles struggle to maintain their place in the betting industry.
The Future of Esports Betting
With 2025 shaping up to be another transformative year for esports, the future of betting remains promising. As game developers invest in competitive scenes and bookmakers expand their markets, esports betting is set to grow further.
New game releases and innovative betting features will likely influence market trends. Games incorporating blockchain technology, AI-driven analytics, and interactive betting options could change how wagers are placed.
Furthermore, regulatory developments will play a key role in shaping esports betting. Stricter guidelines may impact how bookmakers operate, but they could also lead to a more structured and transparent betting industry.
Key Takeaways for Bettors
For those looking to place wagers on esports in 2025, staying informed about game trends and tournament structures is crucial. Games with strong developer backing and frequent competitions offer the best betting opportunities.
Additionally, bettors should pay attention to market liquidity and odds variations. Choosing reputable sportsbooks with competitive odds and diverse betting options will ensure a better experience.
Ultimately, esports betting is an ever-changing landscape. Keeping up with industry shifts and emerging titles will give bettors an edge when navigating the evolving market.