The realm of eSports has surged to global popularity, attracting attention not just from gaming enthusiasts, but investors and brands alike. But what does it take to break into the professional gaming scene? How does one go from being an amateur gamer to a pro gaming icon? Let’s explore the fascinating world of ESports, its economic dynamics, and the makings of a professional gamer.

The Booming ESports Industry

With the ESport industry’s rapid evolution, there has been a significant inflow of financial resources. In 2017 alone, tournament prize money reached an astounding US$113 million. Such incredible figures naturally beg the question – How does one crack into this lucrative industry and establish themselves as a successful professional gamer?

Few Among Many: The Reality of Pro Gaming

Amid the shining lights and the massive prize pools, it’s essential to understand the harsh reality of the ESports industry. Out of tens of thousands of players, only a select few hundred can exclusively sustain themselves as professional gamers. So, what differentiates these few from the masses?

Michael Ward and Alexander Harmon, in their enlightening study titled “ESport Superstars”, delve into three crucial aspects that mold the careers of professional gamers:

1. The Allure of Superstardom: The eSports industry thrives on what is termed the “superstar effect.” This is where substantial increases in top prizes act as magnets, drawing a plethora of amateurs into the professional domain, each aspiring to claim a piece of the pie. Much like traditional sports, the allure of becoming a superstar and securing these lucrative prizes compels many to dedicate hours, hoping to transition from casual players to pro gaming legends.
2. Experience, Age, and Innate Ability: Contrary to some misconceptions, being a professional gamer isn’t solely about natural talent. Ward and Harmon’s study underscores the interplay of age, experience, and player ability. While both age and experience undeniably impact a player’s performance, assessing a player’s inherent ability remains a significant challenge. This raises a vital question for anyone wondering how to become a pro gamer: Is it innate skill, years of rigorous training, or a combination of both that propels a player to the top?
3. The Swift and Ruthless Exit: The ESport domain, much like any other competitive field, is swift in filtering out the best from the rest. As the study suggests, career exits often mirror a rapid resolution concerning the uncertainties in a player’s ability. In simpler terms, the industry quickly determines who has the potential to stay and who doesn’t. Hence, for someone figuring out how to pro transition, it’s essential to understand that this journey demands perseverance, resilience, and the continual honing of skills.

From Passion to Profession

As the eSports industry continues to expand, it presents numerous opportunities. However, the path to becoming a professional gamer isn’t straightforward. It requires a blend of talent, strategic understanding, and an unwavering dedication to the game.

For those aiming to make a mark, remember that while achieving superstardom is a dream many harbor, the journey demands more than just passion. It’s about understanding the intricacies of the game, learning from failures, and persistently striving for excellence.

In conclusion, the eSports realm, with its glitz and glamour, offers a world of possibilities. But behind every superstar is a story of dedication, relentless practice, and an undying love for the game. The road might be long and challenging, but for those truly passionate, the rewards are unparalleled. Aim high, gamers!

Sources

Ward, Michael & Harmon, Alexander. (2018). ESport Superstars. SSRN Electronic Journal. 10.2139/ssrn.3154763.

Photo by Josh Berendes on Unsplash