Asia Pacific's eSports Growth

eSports is a highly competitive and rapidly expanding form of video gaming, mainly among professional players. Asian countries have a massive influence on the industry as its popularity grows worldwide. Asia is quickly becoming the world's most important eSports and video game hub. The landscape not only produces some of the most fierce gamers but also attracts a large fanbase who frequently place bets on eSport games and tournaments. With a large gaming market already established, it will be interesting to see how Pacific Asia influences this hypercompetitive world. 

Asia eSports Market Growth Analysis

Asia accounts for more than 57% of the $1.1 billion global esports market, making it the world's most important esports region. As a result, Asia has a significant impact on the future of the eSports industry. eSports was featured as a medal event in the Southeast Asian Games, and there is a plan to incorporate eSports into the region’s curriculum. Unsurprisingly, eSports are quickly entering the mainstream in Pacific Asia. 

GMO Research surveyed gaming and eSports in the Asia Pacific, focusing on consumer insights and behavioral trends. Six countries participated in the survey: China, Malaysia, the Philippines, Korea, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Consumer preferences and spending trends on eSports were noted during the research.

In Vietnam, approximately 75% reported having some experience with eSports, meaning they had either watched or participated in it. Vietnam was followed by China, which had approximately 64.4% of its population participate in eSports. Thailand comes in third with around 60.9%, followed by Malaysia with 57.8% and Taiwan with 43%. According to the report, consumer spending on donations and channel subscriptions has increased significantly in the region’s popular streaming platforms, such as Douyo and Huya. This surge has been seen primarily in the Philippines and Malaysia. 

According to 2020 research, China, Korea, Japan, the United States, and Germany have the largest gaming market share. They had the most significant gaming market share due to their enormous revenues. Regarding gaming innovations and users, China was larger than the United States in eSports. It has the world's largest gaming population, boosting its video streaming industry.

Popular eSports Streaming Platforms in Asia Pacific

At 52.6%, the statistics reveal that top eSports players flood Douyu TV. Huya, with 51.3%, and NetEase, with 26.4%, are the other top gaming sites in China. Because of their brand strength and significant capital base, the most prominent platforms, Douyu and Huya, dominate the Asia pacific market share. They have the best streamers and market influence making them favorites for organizing large-scale eSports events.

Korea has also been noted for having a sizable eSports population. Korea dominates one of its major games, League of Legends. YouTube Gaming, Facebook Gaming, Garena Live, and Twitch have emerged as new platforms for watching and participating in eSports. The platforms have been the most active promoters of eSports in Korea and throughout Asia. Most gamers in Pacific Asia use YouTube and FaceBook live features as their primary eSport gaming sites. This makes it easier to develop a fanbase online. 

Betting sites also have a significant impact on eSports. Most eSports players are also found on betting websites, as the two go hand in hand. eSport betting includes a wide variety of betting games making such sites attractive to professional eSports gamers and their fans.

Key Growth Drivers for the Asia Pacific eSports Market

Video games and eSports have significantly altered how gamers interact and participate online. Several investors are entering the industry and developing advanced technologies to serve current and potential clients better. The use of advanced gaming technologies and more innovations contribute to the growth of the eSports market, which is becoming better by the day.

Online live streaming has also contributed to the growth of the eSports market. It enhances the gaming experience by making the players feel like they are at the gaming site in real-time. Another important factor for growth is the attractive prizes offered by eSports event organizers. eSports fans always place bets on the outcomes of eSports games and tournaments based on the prizes. This means that the entire gaming fraternity profits in one way or the other. 

The increasing number of smartphone users in Asia has also contributed to the growth. With the increased use of smartphones, internet penetration in the region has also increased. The development has supported the eSports market in developing countries such as India and China.

Conclusion

Even though the market is thriving, Asia eSports will continue to be a global contender as the growth potential is still tremendous. Also, new players are constantly emerging as eSports become more accessible. Asian countries have a lot to offer in terms of eSports fans, and modern gaming operators should not overlook the growing opportunities.