Soulbound.gg reports that the top 100 esports games will award $1.72 billion to 131,543 players through 52,451 tournaments as of 2024. The global audience is expected to exceed 640 million by 2025. Leading games include Dota 2, Fortnite, Counter-Strike, League of Legends, and Arena of Valor. China leads in earnings with $289.1 million, followed by the U.S. with $268.3 million and South Korea with $141.4 million. If you want to see the entire study, click here. rAVe has the industry’s only Esports show that airs twice a month, hosted by Esports guru, Bubba Gaeddert. Watch it here.
Key findings:
- Global Distribution: In 2024, the top 100 esports games awarded $1.72 billion to 131,543 players across 52,451 tournaments, reflecting wide participation.
- Top 5 Games Dominate: Dota 2, Fortnite, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, League of Legends, and Arena of Valor contributed $896.8 million (52%) of the total prize money.
- Top Esports Countries: China leads with $289.1 million, driven by Dota 2. The U.S. follows with $268.3 million, largely from Fortnite. South Korea ranks third with $141.4 million, primarily from League of Legends
- Dota 2’s Impact: Dota 2 awarded $349.7 million, over 20% of the global prize money, underlining its strong presence.
- High Player Participation: Counter-Strike: Global Offensive has the highest number of players (16,441), followed by Fortnite (9,334).
- Mobile Esports Growth: PUBG Mobile awarded $83.6 million in 331 tournaments, with total PUBG-related prize money reaching $145.4 million.
- Arena of Valor Earnings: Arena of Valor awarded $92.8 million in 175 tournaments.
- New Titles Rising: VALORANT and Apex Legends are quickly gaining traction, with $27.1 million and $22.9 million in prize money, respectively.