During the early stages of the development of esports, many would have doubted that predictions regarding the rapid progression of the industry were far-fetched to say the least, but we have reached a stage where what can only be described as a global phenomenon is only going to get bigger. That means an increase in popularity, participation, tournaments and rewards for online gamers around the world, with the demographics becoming more widespread by the month. Much like boxing has welcomed Youtubers competing in professional bouts, the betting world has introduced opportunities to back your favourite or more highly-regarded gamers, something which is currently in operation for Counter-Strike: Global Offensive.
Whether you are a newcomer or familiar with CSGO betting, it is worth doing your research. Depending on whether it is a casual game or a more complex team battle, that will likely lead to a fluctuation in the betting odds. In theory, the shorter the game, it is more likely that an upset will occur, but taking advantage of any tipster websites should be regarded as a necessity. Such is its popularity that one leading bookmaker is currently offering odds on nine different competitions, with multiple markets available on each one.
At a time when the betting industry is looking to profit from games like CS: GO, it will come as no surprise to you that the opportunities to earn money as an esports gamer continue to be on the rise. Before you start getting carried away and begin dreaming of spending your life in front of a computer screen attempting to beat a random opponent from another country, let's be clear - you have to be really good to making a living - but it is possible. Depending on what part of the world you live in, a salary of anywhere between $3,000 (£2,293) to $5,000 ($3,822) could be made available, an attractive package if you can earn it! Providing that you have the patience, dedication and enthusiasm to become highly skilled on a particular game, those rewards have the potential to get to astronomical levels.
As it stands, a player from Denmark - Johan Sundstein - has secured almost $7m during his time in esports, making him the biggest earner in the industry. Such has been his success that he is $420,000 ahead of his biggest rival Jesse Vainikka, a fellow Scandinavian which will only naturally lead to a constant competitiveness between the pair. Despite their respective success, United States is far and away the nation with the most players in esports, more than three times more than its nearest challenger China. Nevertheless, while 15,765 Stateside participants have claimed $134.57m between them, 4,271 Chinese players are not far behind with $106.97m, suggesting a higher overall skill level. As far as the United Kingdom is concerned, they are down in 11th position, boasting almost 3,000 players who have brought in $17.91m. As time goes by, and games like CS: GO inevitably continue to grow, the UK will expect to be far closer to the industry leaders in the coming years.
