How to Become an Esports Competitor (Game, Train, Reign)
If you’ve ever dreamed of competing on the global esports stage or wondered what it takes to become a professional esports competitor, you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the EXACT steps you need to take to kickstart your career as an esports competitor. We’ll talk about:
- The skills you need.
- The training regimes that can help you excel.
- How to break into the competitive esports scene.
So, whether you’re a casual gamer or an aspiring competitor looking to level up, stay tuned.
We’re about to unlock the strategy to become a professional esports competitor.
Let’s gear up and get started!
Steps to Become an Esports Competitor
Step 1: Identify Your Preferred Game Genre
Choosing the right game to compete in is a crucial first step in becoming an eSports competitor.
Since eSports encompass a wide range of genres, including Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA), First-Person Shooter (FPS), Real-Time Strategy (RTS), and many more, you need to identify which genre you excel in and enjoy playing the most.
This might be a game you already play regularly or one that you are interested in learning.
Keep in mind that each game requires a different skill set, strategies, and understanding of game mechanics.
Therefore, it’s essential to spend time in the initial stage determining where your gaming strengths lie.
Consider the competitive scene of the game as well.
Some games have a more active eSports scene than others, which can affect your opportunities for growth and advancement.
Also, you might want to look into the longevity of the game in the eSports industry.
Games that are consistently popular over time are likely to offer more opportunities for professional competition.
Once you’ve selected a game, devote your time to mastering it.
This means understanding the game’s mechanics thoroughly, learning advanced strategies, and regularly practicing to improve your skills.
Remember, the road to becoming an eSports competitor is a marathon, not a sprint, and requires immense dedication, time, and effort.
Step 2: Gain Proficiency in a Specific Game
As an Esports Competitor, your performance heavily depends on your ability to master a specific game.
Therefore, it’s crucial to focus on becoming proficient in one game first.
This might be a game you already enjoy playing or a new one that you discover and feel passionate about.
Gaining proficiency involves understanding the game’s mechanics, mastering the controls, and learning strategies.
This will require countless hours of practice, often against increasingly challenging opponents.
It’s also beneficial to study professional matches and take notes on effective strategies and tactics.
Furthermore, you need to keep up with updates and patches that game developers frequently release.
These can significantly change game mechanics or the strength of certain characters, requiring you to adapt your strategies.
Participating in local tournaments or online matches can also help you gain experience and improve your skills.
Remember, the goal is not just to play the game but to understand it at a level that allows you to compete at the highest level.
As an Esports competitor, your chosen game will become more than just a pastime; it will be your career.
Consequently, dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to continuously learn and improve are essential.
Step 3: Invest in the Necessary Gaming Hardware and Equipment
Investing in high-quality gaming hardware and equipment is a crucial step in your journey to becoming a professional Esports competitor.
This may include an advanced gaming PC or console, high-speed internet, a comfortable gaming chair, and other peripherals such as a professional-grade gaming mouse and keyboard, gaming headset, and large high-resolution monitor.
Your choice of equipment will largely depend on the type of games you wish to specialize in.
For example, if you’re planning to play first-person shooter games, you’ll require a gaming mouse with high DPI for quick and accurate movements.
Similarly, a high refresh rate monitor can give you a competitive edge in fast-paced games.
It’s also important to ensure that your gaming setup is comfortable for long hours of practice.
Investing in an ergonomic gaming chair and desk can help prevent physical strain and fatigue.
Remember, while this might seem like a considerable upfront cost, having the right equipment can significantly impact your gaming performance.
Consider it as an investment in your professional Esports career.
However, always remember that while good gear can enhance your performance, it’s your skills and dedication that will truly make you a successful Esports competitor.
Step 4: Train Regularly and Consistently
As an esports competitor, regular and consistent training is vital to improving your skills and maintaining a competitive edge.
This often involves playing the game for several hours each day, similar to how a professional athlete would train.
Create a structured training schedule that includes time dedicated to practicing the game, analyzing past matches, learning new strategies, and studying your competitors.
Remember that your training should be focused and purposeful, not just casually playing the game.
Additionally, consider seeking the help of a coach or mentor who can provide guidance, feedback, and training strategies.
They can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, develop new techniques, and provide invaluable insights into the game.
Balance your training with regular breaks to avoid burnout and to maintain your physical and mental health.
Esports requires a high level of concentration, quick reflexes, and strategic thinking, so it is essential to keep your mind and body in top condition.
Lastly, participate in amateur tournaments to gain practical experience and to test your skills in a competitive setting.
This will also expose you to the pressures and challenges of a real competition, helping you prepare for bigger tournaments in the future.
Step 5: Study Professional Players and Strategies
In the constantly evolving world of Esports, it is essential to stay ahead of the curve by studying and understanding the strategies of professional players.
This involves watching their game play, analyzing their tactics, and learning from their methods.
Live streams, YouTube videos, and professional Esports tournaments are all great resources to observe professionals in action.
You should also make a habit of practicing these strategies in your own games.
This allows you to apply the tactics and techniques you’ve learned in real-time situations, helping you to understand their intricacies and benefits better.
Consider joining an Esports team or community where you can share and discuss strategies with other players.
This will not only improve your own gameplay but also enhance your teamwork skills, which are crucial for Esports competitions.
Remember, the goal is not to mimic the professionals, but to understand their thought processes and decision making during games.
This will help you develop your unique style of gameplay while incorporating successful tactics and strategies.
Step 6: Join a Gaming Community or Start a Team
Being a part of a gaming community or starting your own team is a crucial step for an aspiring Esports competitor.
It helps you get familiar with the competitive scene and provides opportunities for practice and growth.
You can join local or online gaming communities, where you can meet like-minded gamers, share strategies, learn from each other, and even find potential teammates.
Joining a community or forming a team allows you to participate in team-based competitions, which are common in Esports.
This experience teaches you important skills such as communication, teamwork, and strategic planning, all of which are vital in competitive gaming.
If you decide to start your own team, you would need to find other players who are committed and have the same competitive goals as you.
As a team, you can train together, participate in tournaments, and gradually gain recognition in the Esports scene.
It’s important to remember that building a strong team or being an active part of a community requires commitment, patience, and a lot of practice.
You will need to invest time in coordinating with team members, practicing strategies, and adapting to the competitive environment.
Whether you join a community or start a team, this step is a great way to immerse yourself in the world of Esports, learn from experienced players, and improve your gaming skills.
Step 7: Participate in Local and Online Tournaments
Starting to compete in local and online tournaments is an essential step to becoming a professional Esports Competitor.
These tournaments not only provide you with a platform to showcase your skills, but also expose you to the competitive environment of esports.
Local tournaments give you the opportunity to experience competitive play in a physical environment, similar to what you might experience at larger, professional events.
On the other hand, online tournaments allow you to compete with players from around the globe, expanding your exposure to different strategies and play styles.
Participating in these tournaments can also help you get noticed by professional teams and sponsors.
Many professional players have been discovered at these smaller tournaments, so take them seriously and bring your best game.
Remember, consistency is key.
Regular participation in these tournaments can help you climb the rankings and attract more attention.
Additionally, the experience gained from these tournaments is invaluable for your growth as a player and can help you prepare for larger, more prestigious competitions in the future.
Lastly, don’t forget to learn from each tournament.
Win or lose, there is always something to be learned from every game.
Use these experiences to identify and work on your weaknesses, as well as to refine and perfect your strengths.
Step 8: Develop and Maintain Good Physical and Mental Health
Although video games are not physical sports, being an Esports competitor requires a lot of mental and physical stamina.
You might need to compete in sessions that last for several hours, with only short breaks.
Therefore, it’s essential to maintain good physical health.
Regular exercise can help improve your reaction time and stamina.
It can also prevent health issues associated with a sedentary lifestyle.
Mental health is equally important.
Esports can be stressful and maintaining a positive mental health can be challenging.
It’s important to develop a strong mindset, and handle pressure and disappointment gracefully.
Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation and stress management exercises can be beneficial.
Regular breaks from gaming can also help prevent burnout and maintain a balanced lifestyle.
An Esports competitor should also maintain a healthy diet, which can improve concentration and energy levels.
Remember, the body and mind are interconnected, so keep both in top condition to stay competitive.
Regular check-ups with a doctor or a health professional is also recommended to ensure you are fit for the challenges ahead.
Step 9: Build an Online Presence and Network with Other Gamers
As an Esports competitor, creating an online presence is crucial for building your personal brand and attracting attention from sponsors and professional teams.
Start by creating profiles on popular social networking sites and streaming platforms such as Twitch, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
Share regular updates, stream your gaming sessions, and interact with your followers to build a strong fan base.
In addition to building your online presence, start networking with other gamers and industry professionals.
Attend Esports tournaments, conventions, and gaming meetups to meet other players and important figures in the industry.
This can lead to opportunities such as partnerships, sponsorships, and even a spot on a professional Esports team.
Consider joining online communities and forums dedicated to your particular game or Esports in general.
This can help you stay updated on industry trends, get tips and advice, and connect with other passionate gamers.
Remember, networking and building your online presence is a continuous process.
Be consistent, engage with your followers, and be open to new opportunities.
This will not only enhance your popularity but also increase your chances of being noticed by scouts and recruiters from professional Esports teams.
Step 10: Seek Sponsorship or Join a Professional Esports Organization
Securing a sponsorship or joining a professional esports organization is a crucial step to stabilize and advance your career as an esports competitor.
Both can provide you with financial support, training resources, and exposure to larger tournaments and audience.
Sponsorship is usually provided by companies interested in promoting their products or services through esports.
They can offer financial support, gaming equipment, or other resources you need for training and competing.
To attract sponsors, you must build a strong personal brand and competitive profile.
Participating in tournaments, being active on social media, and regularly streaming your games can help increase your visibility in the esports community.
Joining a professional esports organization offers similar benefits to sponsorship, but with additional advantages.
Esports teams often have access to coaches, analysts, and training facilities that can significantly improve your gaming skills.
They also have a structured system for participating in tournaments, which can provide you with regular competitive experience.
Remember, both sponsorships and team memberships require a professional attitude and commitment to the gaming community.
You will be expected to represent your sponsors or team positively, which may require certain lifestyle choices and a consistent practice schedule.
Step 11: Continuously Improve and Stay Updated with Game Changes and Strategies
As an Esports competitor, it’s essential to stay on top of your game, literally.
The world of Esports is constantly evolving with updates and new strategies emerging regularly.
Therefore, it is necessary to always be improving your skills and knowledge of the games you compete in.
You can do this by regularly practicing and participating in scrimmages against other teams.
This not only helps improve your technical skills and reflexes but also gives you the chance to test out new strategies.
Watching replays of your own matches is another effective way to identify areas where you can improve.
It’s also important to keep an eye on the wider Esports community.
Follow top players in your game, watch their streams and take notes on their strategies.
Keeping informed about game updates, patches, and new trends is also vital.
Developers often release updates that can change the dynamics of the game, so staying informed will allow you to adapt quickly and stay ahead of the competition.
Remember, becoming a top Esports competitor is a journey.
It requires dedication, perseverance, and constant learning.
Keep refining your skills, stay flexible, and always be ready for the next challenge.
Step 12: Compete at the Professional Level
When you’ve honed your skills, obtained considerable experience, and built a reputation in amateur leagues or online gaming communities, it’s time to take the big leap and compete at the professional level in esports.
Firstly, you should have a deep understanding of the game you’re playing and be competent in all aspects of it.
This involves understanding the game’s mechanics, strategies, and meta at a high level.
You should be able to adapt quickly to changes in the game such as balance updates and new content releases.
To compete at this level, you need to be part of a professional esports team.
This could mean applying to join a team, or if your skill and reputation have grown significantly, teams might approach you.
When part of a team, you will compete in matches against other professional teams in leagues and tournaments.
These could be online, but often at this level, they are live, in-person events.
At this stage, practice and preparation become more intensive.
Besides practicing with your team, you’ll need to spend a significant amount of time studying your competition, their strategies, and their playstyles to be able to counter them effectively.
Remember, playing at the professional level also requires managing your physical and mental health.
Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep are crucial.
It’s also important to manage stress and maintain a positive mental state, as professional esports can be highly competitive and demanding.
Lastly, remember to uphold sportsmanship and professional conduct.
At this level, you will represent not only yourself but also your team and sponsors.
Any inappropriate behavior can have serious consequences for your career.
Competing at the professional level is a challenging journey that requires dedication, discipline, and immense passion for the game.
With perseverance and continual improvement, you can make a name for yourself in the esports industry.
Esports Competitor Roles and Responsibilities
Esports Competitors are professional players who compete in video game tournaments on the global stage.
They play a variety of games and strive to excel in their chosen game by mastering the skills, tactics, and strategies required to win.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Training and Practice
- Regularly train and practice to improve gaming skills and strategies.
- Analyze and understand the mechanics and meta of the game.
- Participate in practice matches to maintain competitive edge.
Competition
- Compete in local, regional, national, and international tournaments.
- Keep calm under pressure and make strategic decisions.
- Adhere to competition rules and display sportsmanship.
Teamwork
- Cooperate with team members during team-based games.
- Communicate effectively with teammates during matches.
- Participate in team strategies and tactics planning.
Analysis
- Analyze previous matches to identify strengths and weaknesses.
- Keep up-to-date with the latest strategies and techniques used by competitors.
Public Relations
- Engage with fans through social media and events.
- Represent the team and sponsors professionally.
- Participate in media interviews and promotional events.
Health and Wellness
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle to cope with the physical and mental demands of competitive gaming.
- Practice proper ergonomics during gameplay.
Continuous Learning
- Keep abreast of new game updates and changes.
- Continually learn and adapt to new gaming strategies and techniques.
What Does an Esports Competitor Do?
Esports Competitors, also known as professional gamers, participate in competitive video gaming.
They usually work for esports teams or organizations, although some are self-employed or freelance players.
Their primary task is to compete in various video game tournaments or competitions, often playing a specific game in which they have specialized.
These competitions can range from small local events to large international tournaments with significant prize pools.
Esports Competitors spend a substantial amount of time practicing and improving their skills, often playing for several hours a day.
They need to understand the intricacies of their chosen game, learn strategies, and develop quick reflexes and hand-eye coordination.
In addition to competing, they may also be required to participate in team meetings and strategy sessions, review and analyze past games to identify areas for improvement, and keep up-to-date with game updates and changes.
Esports Competitors often interact with fans and the wider gaming community, whether in-person at events, through social media, or via streaming platforms.
Some professional gamers also create content such as game tutorials or commentaries, which requires video editing skills.
Moreover, professional gamers may be called upon to represent their team or sponsor at public events, such as trade shows and conventions.
This can involve speaking engagements, autograph signings, or interviews with the media.
Essential Esports Competitor Skills
- Game Knowledge: A deep understanding of the game’s mechanics, rules, characters, strategies, and map layouts is a prerequisite for becoming an esports competitor.
- Technical Skills: Proficient in controlling game interfaces, using gaming equipment such as keyboards, mice, controllers, and understanding how to exploit game mechanics to one’s advantage.
- Teamwork: Many esports games are team-based. The ability to work effectively with teammates, understand their roles, and coordinate strategies is vital.
- Communication: Good communication is crucial during matches to strategize, call out enemy positions, and coordinate with the team. Understanding game-specific lingo and terms can also be important.
- Strategic Thinking: The ability to make strategic decisions quickly, anticipate opponents’ actions, and adapt to the changing dynamics of the game is key in esports.
- Mental Agility: Esports often require quick reflexes, good hand-eye coordination, and the ability to multitask effectively.
- Physical Fitness: Although esports is primarily a mental activity, physical wellness can impact performance. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and good sleep patterns can contribute to improved reaction times and endurance during long gaming sessions.
- Stress Management: Esports can be high-pressure environments, especially during tournaments. The ability to manage stress and maintain composure can significantly impact performance.
- Resilience: Losing is a part of any sport, including esports. The ability to learn from losses, adapt, and continue practicing is crucial for any esports competitor.
- Problem-solving: The ability to quickly identify issues or weaknesses in one’s gameplay or team strategy, and develop creative and efficient solutions is invaluable in competitive gaming.
- Game Updates and Trends: As games frequently update with new content or balance changes, a good esports competitor should stay updated with these changes and adapt their strategies accordingly.
- Networking: Building connections with other players, teams, and professionals in the esports industry can lead to better opportunities and valuable information sharing.
- Discipline: Regular practice and the willingness to stick to a consistent training schedule is necessary to improve skills and stay competitive.
- Sportsmanship: Respect for competitors, adherence to rules, and maintaining a positive attitude, even in defeat, is important in fostering a healthy competitive environment.
- Understanding of Esports Industry: Knowledge of the esports industry, including its structure, major tournaments, teams, and other aspects can help an esports competitor better navigate their career.
Esports Competitor Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Amateur Gamer
Your journey typically begins as an amateur gamer.
At this stage, you are honing your skills, learning strategies, and understanding the mechanics of the game.
Your responsibilities may include practicing regularly, participating in local tournaments, and learning from more experienced players.
Here are some tips for success in this role:
- Consistent Practice: Improve your skills by playing the game regularly and learning the mechanics in-depth.
- Watch and Learn: Watch professional gamers to pick up strategies and techniques.
- Teamwork: Most esports rely on teamwork, so practice coordinating and cooperating with others.
The Ascent: Semi-Professional Gamer
As you gain experience and improve your skills, you’ll transition into the role of a semi-professional gamer.
You’ll compete in larger tournaments, perhaps even at a national level, and start getting noticed in the gaming community.
Here’s how to thrive in this stage:
- Strategic Thinking: Develop strategic thinking by understanding the nuances of the game and learning how to outsmart opponents.
- Network: Connect with other gamers, join a team, and learn how to work collaboratively.
- Mental Resilience: Esports can be intense and stressful, so build mental resilience to perform under pressure.
Reaching New Heights: Professional Gamer
The next step is becoming a professional gamer.
At this stage, you’re recognized for your gaming skills and may be invited to join professional teams.
You’ll be competing in international tournaments with significant prizes.
To excel as a professional gamer:
- Regular Training: Train regularly with your team to build coordination and improve strategies.
- Public Relations: Learn how to interact with media and fans as you will be in the public eye.
- Adaptation: Be ready to adapt to new game updates, patches, or shifts in the competitive meta.
Beyond the Horizon: Team Captain and Beyond
As your career progresses, you may become a team captain or even a coach.
Each of these roles involves greater responsibilities, leadership, and strategic decision-making.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Leadership: Develop leadership skills to guide and inspire your teammates effectively.
- Coaching Skills: Share your knowledge and experience to help others grow as players.
- Game Analysis: Stay up-to-date with the latest game trends and strategies.
Pinnacle of Success: Esports Icon or Team Owner
You may reach roles like Esports Icon or Team Owner at the highest echelons of the esports career ladder.
Here, you’ll be responsible for shaping the direction of the team, making critical decisions, and inspiring the next generation of gamers.
You could also become a recognized figure in the gaming community or even start your own esports organization.
Esports Competitor Salary
Entry-Level Esports Competitor
- Median Salary: $5,000 – $30,000 per year
- Entry-level esports competitors usually have less than 2 years of professional gaming experience. Their income can vary widely depending on the game they play, their skill level, and their performance in tournaments.
Mid-Level Esports Competitor
- Median Salary: $30,000 – $60,000 per year
- Mid-level esports competitors have 2-5 years of experience and have often made a name for themselves in the gaming community. They may participate in higher-level tournaments and have the potential for significant earnings from sponsorships and brand endorsements.
Senior Esports Competitor
- Median Salary: $60,000 – $120,000 per year
- Senior esports competitors possess 5+ years of experience and are often well-known within their respective gaming communities. They are likely to participate in major tournaments, and have substantial income from sponsorships, endorsements, and prize money.
Professional Esports Competitor / Team Leader
- Median Salary: $100,000 – $300,000+ per year
- Professional esports competitors or team leaders typically have significant experience and have achieved notable success in their gaming careers. Their income can vary greatly depending on their success in tournaments, the popularity of the game they play, and the value of their sponsorships and endorsements.
Esports Star / Celebrity Gamer
- Median Salary: $500,000 – $2,000,000+ per year
- Esports stars or celebrity gamers are at the top of the esports industry. They have typically won multiple major tournaments, have lucrative sponsorships and endorsement deals, and may also generate additional income from streaming, merchandising, and other business ventures.
Esports Competitor Work Environment
Esports Competitors often work in a digital environment, either from the comfort of their homes or at gaming studios and arenas.
They can also work in shared coworking spaces designed specifically for gamers.
Competitors may have to travel both domestically and internationally to participate in tournaments and competitions.
These events are often held in large stadiums filled with spectators and can span over several days.
The work schedule of an Esports Competitor is typically very flexible, however, it often involves late-night gaming sessions and intense periods of practice leading up to competitions.
Moreover, the lifestyle of an Esports Competitor requires a high level of discipline, maintaining both mental and physical health to sustain optimal gaming performance.
This includes regular fitness activities, healthy eating, sleep routine management, and stress management practices.
As Esports Competitors gain recognition and build their personal brands, they may also choose to monetize their skills through streaming platforms, hosting workshops, and securing sponsorships.
FAQs About Becoming an Esports Competitor
What is needed to become an Esports Competitor?
To become an Esports Competitor, one requires a combination of gaming skills, strategic thinking, and the physical stamina to participate in long gaming sessions.
A deep understanding of the game rules, techniques, and strategies is crucial.
Additionally, good hand-eye coordination, quick reflexes, communication skills, teamwork, and adaptability are essential.
A formal educational background is not necessary, but one must invest significant time and effort in mastering a game and staying updated with its evolving trends.
How long does it take to become an Esports Competitor?
The timeline to become an Esports Competitor varies greatly depending on the individual’s skill level, the game they choose, and the time and effort they put into practice and competition.
Some players may rise to professional level within a few years, while for others it may take longer.
Regular practice, participation in local tournaments, and continual learning and improvement are vital to expedite the process.
Can I become an Esports Competitor without formal training?
Yes, it’s absolutely possible to become an Esports Competitor without formal training.
Many successful professional players are self-taught or learned from online resources, game tutorials, and peer learning.
However, formal training from a coach or an esports academy can provide structured learning, guidance, and strategies that may be beneficial for your esports career.
Is being an Esports Competitor a stressful job?
Being an Esports Competitor can be stressful due to the intense competition, high stakes, long practice hours, and the need to maintain peak performance.
Mental and physical strain can also lead to stress.
However, with proper time management, stress management techniques, regular physical exercise, and a balanced diet, it is possible to manage this stress effectively.
What are the prospects for Esports Competitors in the next decade?
The prospects for Esports Competitors are very promising in the next decade.
The esports industry is experiencing rapid growth, with increasing viewership, sponsorship, and prize money.
In addition to competitive gaming, there are opportunities in content creation, coaching, game testing, and more.
However, the esports scene is also highly competitive, and success requires skill, dedication, and the ability to adapt to the ever-evolving gaming scene.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
The journey to become an esports competitor is intense and challenging, but the rewards are matchless.
Equipped with the right skills, training, and resiliency, you’re on the verge of making a significant impact in the thrilling world of esports.
Remember, the path may be tough, but the possibilities are endless. Your skills could catapult you to stardom in the next major tournament, changing the way we perceive competitive gaming.
So, take that initial leap. Immerse yourself in training. Connect with seasoned gamers. And above all, never stop honing your gaming skills.
Because the esports world is eagerly anticipating your entrance.
And if you’re seeking tailored guidance on starting or advancing your career in esports, look into our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to offer personalized advice and resources to help you efficiently navigate your career path in esports.
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