Esports and iGaming may seem like two completely different worlds, but they actually share many similarities that make them appealing to the same audience. Many eSports players are beginning to discover the benefits of playing digital casino games like roulette, blackjack, and poker and are even using them to improve their pro gaming skills in their main genres and titles. In this article, we’ll explore why eSports players should start playing online casino games and how to find the best online platforms to play on. Plus, with online casino providers like 32Red now offering deposit matches and free spins, it’s the perfect time to get started. 

The Benefits of iGaming for eSports Players

Esports players of all levels can benefit from playing other types of digital games — it’s the pro gaming version of cross-training — and the iGaming sector is full of verticals that will help develop a number of transferable skills. 

For instance, online casino games can help to improve focus and concentration, which are fundamental requirements of pro gaming. In card games like poker and blackjack, players need to pay close attention to how their opponents play and anticipate their next moves to make the right decisions. The same goes for eSports, where players need to analyze their opponent’s strategies and predict what they’re going to do next in order to outwit them. 

Playing digital casino games can help pro gamers develop their observational skills, as they very often need to pay attention to small details in order to make the right decisions.

Speaking of making the right decisions, it’s well known that online casino games require players to make quick decisions based on the cards they’re dealt and not much else. This also applies to competitive scenarios, in which eSports players must make rapid-fire decisions based on what’s happening in a game. Playing digital casino games can actually help gamers get used to making critical decisions with very little information to hand, which will then improve their decision-making in eSports environments. 

Both disciplines also require players to develop a strategic approach to their gameplay to succeed. In fact, being able to carry out a strategy is often one of the more effective ways to win an eSports tournament or poker game when the playing field is level. It’s the small things that can make a difference during a tournament or competition, and card and table games can help eSports players to maximize their strategic edge. 

Advantages Outside the Arena

As well as improving an eSports gamer’s prospects during competitions and gameplay, iGaming can also bring about several advantages to players outside the competitive arena. 

Esports is becoming an increasingly lucrative industry, meaning that players can go on to earn a significant amount from prize pools and sponsorships. This income can often be difficult to manage for pro gamers who aren’t used to dealing with their finances. It may not be obvious at first glance, but playing digital casino games like roulette can actually help eSports players to develop better money management skills.

All real money games carry with them a degree of risk, and the process of making wagers involves carefully calculating risk vs reward. Casino gamers aren’t just deciding how much money to play with at any one time but are also continually looking for the best options to bet on — in essence, those options that are worth the investment. Even free-to-play casino games can help eSports players enhance their risk management skills, as they’ll still need to decide when to take risks and when to play it safe.  

Exposure to new gaming verticals can also help eSports players develop their communication skills and reduce social isolation by forming new friendships online. Many digital casino games feature interactive elements in which players can chat with their opponents or even ask questions and engage with live dealers. 

It’s also worth bearing in mind that even though there is a competitive element to playing casino games online, especially tournament-based formats, ultimately, they’re designed for fun and enjoyment. Playing digital casino games can be a great way to relieve stress while helping eSports players remain calm and composed even when dealing with things like a bad hand or a losing bet. 

Getting Started with Online Casinos

Before diving into the world of online casino gaming, it’s important to choose a reputable and licensed online casino operator. The importance of licensing cannot be overstated, as it ensures that the casino is operating legally and ethically. Look for operators who are licensed by reputable regulators such as the Malta Gaming Authority, the UK Gambling Commission, or the Gibraltar Betting and Gaming Association.

It’s also worth checking out the reputation of platforms and operators in the iGaming community. You can find plenty of reviews from other players online, many of which will often go into great detail about the experience of playing at a specific platform as well as how the operator meets legal requirements. 

Once you have registered with a licensed online casino, it’s time to choose the games that you want to play. Online casinos offer a wide range of games, including slots, card and table games, and live dealer games. Slots are the most popular casino game, with a wide range of themes and features to choose from. Table games such as blackjack and roulette are also popular and offer a more traditional casino experience. For a more immersive gaming experience, live dealer games offer players the chance to participate in games with a real dealer via video stream. 

When choosing a game, it’s important to understand the rules and strategies involved. Many online casinos offer free-to-play versions of their games, allowing you to practice and familiarize yourself with the game before playing with real money. Take advantage of these free games to gain experience and confidence before playing with real money.

Other things to keep in mind when choosing digital casino games include: 

• Skill Level – select games that match your skill level. If you’re new to iGaming, start with simpler games like slots and work your way up to more complex blackjack or roulette variants.
• Betting Limits – choose games with betting limits that match your budget. Betting too much too soon is a rookie mistake so look out for games that have a wide range of betting limits. 
• Game Variety – look for games with a variety of themes and styles to keep things interesting. While starting with the basics is important, new formats and variants add further layers of interest when you’re ready to progress.