Virtual sports betting emerged in the 2000s and has become a full-blown vertical many bookmakers offer. You can place real money bets on virtuals just like regular sports and have a chance to explore popular disciplines, including horse racing, dog racing, football, basketball, hockey, etc. Esports is another popular category you’ll find in most sportsbooks. Some people conflate the two, but eSports and virtuals are distinct verticals. Here’s an overview of the main differences between virtual sports and esports betting:
Definitions and Outcomes
Virtual sports are simulated sports events designed by software developers. They’re more like casino games (slots, blackjacks, roulettes, etc.) and rely on random number generators (RNGs) to provide the results. Virtual games are modeled after real-life/regular sports events but offer significantly shorter cycles. A typical game takes 1-2 minutes and features event highlights rendered in HD-quality graphics.
Esports are competitive video games played by real players. Two players or teams battle each other on various fronts to win the video game. The game’s outcome depends on the individual skills and strategies of each player or team. Esports are much closer to conventional sports since they rely on the abilities of real players rather than random number generators. However, they involve playing video games on a PC or console.
Real Money Betting
Leading bookmakers like Betway Sports offer dozens of betting markets on eSports and virtual sports. Esports betting markets depend on the specific game. Popular markets include the moneyline (match winner), round/map winner, over/under, group/event winner, handicap bet, first blood, correct points/score, etc. Odds change based on team/player strategies, form, past performance, and other factors.
Virtual sports betting is quite similar to conventional sports. If you’re betting on virtual football, you’ll find the same markets as normal football, including the moneyline, spread, total (over/under), and props. You can also place parlay bets and build large multi-bets. Virtual betting is available 24/7 due to the shorter cycles of simulation games. Odds are determined beforehand and don’t change. In-play betting is also removed.
Games And Audience
Virtual sports often appeal to the traditional punter and sports fan since they’re modeled after conventional sports. Popular virtual games you can bet on include football, motorsport, horse racing, dog racing, kabaddi, tennis, cycling, basketball, and more. Virtual sports also tend to feature teams and leagues similar to what we see in major sports franchises. The highlights, sound effects, and outcomes are modeled after popular sports results.
Esports attract video game enthusiasts, including casual and hardcore players who enjoy competing or watching others compete. The modern scene features millions of fans and dozens of annual events with big cash prizes to be won. Popular eSports punters can bet on include Dota 2, League of Legends, Fortnight, Overwatch, Counter-Strike, Call of Duty, etc. These are MOBA games where players/teams battle for dominance.
Results And Payouts
Virtual sports offer results that are closely similar to what you get from typical sports. The only difference is that results are generated using random number generators. Since the games take 1-2 minutes, you can win or lose money quickly. Payouts are made when the game ends, and punters can place another bet immediately. Most bookmakers offer roughly one minute between games, so you can bet 24/7.
Esports results are more like conventional sports. The games can last from 90 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the eSport. Results depend on how skillful the player or team is. Factors like mental state, dressing room atmosphere, and form coming into the game are also important. Payouts are made after the event has ended, but some bookmakers offer early cashout features that allow mid-game withdrawals.
Conclusion
Virtual sports and eSports are different verticals available at sportsbooks. Esports are electronic sports with real players, much like pro athletes in physical sports. Virtual sports are computer simulations with random number generators and algorithm-driven results. Both options offer sports betting opportunities. Virtuals offer 24/7 betting experiences, so you can bet anytime. Esports betting follows existing tournaments and events.
