The realm of esports, once considered a niche pursuit, has now become a global sensation, enthralling millions with its electrifying competitions and awe-inspiring prize pools dating back to 1997 when Dennis “Thresh” Fong won a Ferrari 328 for being the last player standing playing Quake. These achievements were undoubtedly remarkable for their time; however, the current landscape of esports boasts prize pools of such magnitude that winning players can often retire comfortably. Esports is taken and organized so thoughtfully that many experts are pondering that esports might actually become a new Olympic sport.
A significant reason leading to the exponential growth of prize money is the rise in popularity of crowdfunding. Game developers have started offering exclusive in-game items to their extensive player communities, thereby augmenting the overall prize pool size. Now, let’s delve into the largest prize pools in the history of esports.
Gamers8 Breaks its own Record in 2023
Once more, Saudi Arabia demonstrates its financial prowess by allocating $45 million. This substantial sum will be distributed among 12 esports tournaments, commencing on July 6 and concluding on Aug. 27. A considerable portion of this funding has already been granted to the competing teams in Dota 2’s Riyadh Masters.
The International: Dota’s 2 Smash in 2021
Sitting at the pinnacle of our rankings is The International, the annual extravaganza of Dota 2. Valve Corporation consistently smashes records, and the 2019 edition boasted an awe-inspiring prize pool of $40 million, firmly establishing itself as the unrivaled champion of esports prize money. Year after year, Dota 2 enthusiasts eagerly anticipate this competition at real money casinos, not only for the gripping gameplay but also to witness history in the making as the prize pool continues to grow. The International has evolved beyond being an ordinary tournament; it stands as a testament to the passion, skill, and sheer magnitude of the esports community, consistently raising the bar with each successive championship.
The Unforgettable Fortnight in 2019
In 2019, Epic Games made a grand entrance onto the stage with the Fortnite World Cup. This extraordinary event, featuring an astounding $30 million in prize money, not only highlighted the global allure of Fortnite but also heralded a transformative shift in the esports industry. Within the annals of esports history, this tournament stands as a shining light, blazing the path toward an even more diverse, exhilarating, and fiercely competitive future.
Saudia Arabia Kicks off esports
Gamers8 from Saudi Arabia made a significant impact with an extraordinary event that transcended the boundaries of a typical tournament and instead resembled a grand festival in 2022. With an impressive prize pool of £25 million (~$33.74 million), this esports extravaganza put Saudi Arabia at the forefront, transforming it into a vibrant hub of gaming enthusiasm. The atmosphere was reminiscent of a carnival, attracting attendees from various parts of the world.
Additionally, the event served as a celebration of gaming culture, providing a common ground for players, fans, and industry professionals to come together. Gamers8 successfully crafted an immersive experience that showcased how esports encompasses more than just the games themselves—it embodies a sense of community, the thrill of competition, and the celebration of passion. In the heart of this Saudi Arabian spectacle, esports emerged not only as a sport but also as a cultural phenomenon.
The Riyadh Masters 2023
In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the stage was set for an intense competition, culminating in Team Spirit, the esteemed T1 Champions of 2012, claiming the championship title in a one-sided series. Despite a challenging start to the year, they showcased their resilience by securing a 3-1 victory over Team Liquid in the final match to take in a cool $15 million.
Players Unknown no more in 2023
Over the course of the last five years, PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds has witnessed a gradual decline in its PC player base. Nevertheless, it continues to maintain its immense popularity as a mobile game. The game boasts a thriving esports scene and offers substantial prize pools, with the PUBG Mobile Global Championship being the most prestigious tournament of the year. Although the exact prize pool for this year’s championship is yet to be confirmed, it is expected to be in the range of $4 million, considering the previous year’s event.
The Ultimate Counter-Strike in 2018
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) has solidified its position as a cornerstone in the world of esports, leaving an indelible mark on the competitive gaming landscape. The ELEAGUE Major in 2018 was a defining moment for CS:GO enthusiasts, embodying the game’s timeless allure. With a staggering $1 million prize pool, this tournament showcased the epitome of skill and precision, exemplifying the very essence of first-person shooters.
Fans and esports lovers from all corners of the globe eagerly tuned in, not only to witness exhilarating matches but also to marvel at the sheer artistry of players who transformed the game into a captivating tapestry of calculated chaos. The ELEAGUE Major served as a poignant reminder of CS: GO’s illustrious history and its unwavering community.
Conclusion
In the ever-expanding universe of esports, these colossal prize jackpots serve as a testament to the industry’s growth and the unwavering passion of its players and fans. As esports continues to evolve, we eagerly look forward to the next record-breaking tournament and the awe-inspiring rewards it will undoubtedly bring forth. Stay informed for upcoming updates on the latest esports events, remarkable victories, and the exceptional players propelling the esports revolution forward.
- FAQS
- What is the largest esports pool?
The International 10 in 2023 can make that claim with an amazing $40 million haul.
- When did Saudia Arabia enter the esports arena?
Gamers8 made history by organizing a competition in 2022. They have followed up this year in 2023, smashing the previous year’s record.
- How often are esports tournaments?
Each online gaming platform is different, with its own set of rules. The same is also true for online casinos and other iGaming sites that host esports. You will need to check their schedules for upcoming tournaments.