Origin of the Gaming Industry:
We all play video games, and at some point in our lives, we’ve spent considerable time gaming. Even today, many people turn to their computers or mobile phones for quick entertainment during breaks or leisure time. The gaming industry began gaining popularity in the 1970s with arcade games. One significant milestone was the release of Pong in 1972, which became immensely popular. Over time, new genres of games emerged. By the 1980s, gaming consoles and home devices entered the market, leading to the rise of companies like Nintendo and Sega. Games like Super Mario and Pac-Man became household names during this period.
The Rise of 3D Graphics and Multiplayer Gaming:
In the 1990s, 3D graphics and multiplayer gaming made their first appearances. Notable games like Doom (1993) and Quake (1996) paved the way for these innovations. Local multiplayer gaming, commonly known as LAN parties, also started gaining traction during this time.
Online Gaming, Mobile Gaming, and the Rise of Esports:
The 2000s marked the beginning of online gaming and esports. Games such as World of Warcraft (2004) and Counter-Strike (2000) became hugely popular, while tournaments featuring games like Dota and StarCraft gained significant attention.
A major shift in the industry came in the 2010s with the advent of mobile gaming. Titles like Clash of Clans and Candy Crush dominated the market, with games such as PUBG Mobile gaining widespread fame. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 further boosted the gaming industry, as people sought entertainment at home, leading to a significant surge in online esports activities.
Esports on the Global Stage: Current Scenario
Esports has grown tremendously and now hosts regular tournaments for popular games like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, League of Legends, PUBG, Apex Legends, Valorant, and Counter-Strike. The prize pools for these tournaments often reach millions of dollars, with many teams participating and securing sponsorships.
Saudi Arabia recently announced the Esports World Cup 2024, featuring 19 games and a prize pool of $60 million. This tournament is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to position gaming as a global investment hub. Through initiatives like this, the kingdom is promoting gaming as not just a hobby but also a professional and economic sector. Global esports is now a thriving business, attracting more professional players and investors every day. In 2022, the popular streaming platform Twitch generated nearly $3 billion in revenue, largely through ads and sponsorships. devtechnosys
Esports in the Economy:
Esports is rapidly cementing its place in the global economy. Professional players are often featured in advertisements, and several universities offer degrees in esports, preparing students for careers in the field. In 2024, the global esports market value is projected to reach $1.8 billion, with an expected rise to $7.46 billion by 2030. The United States remains the largest contributor, with its esports market predicted to reach $1.07 billion in 2024.
The majority of esports revenue comes from sponsorships, media rights, and publisher fees. In 2022, sponsorship alone brought in $837.2 million, indicating how companies now treat esports with the same importance as traditional sports. The Asia-Pacific region leads the way in viewership, accounting for about 57% of the global audience.
The State and Future of Esports in Bangladesh:
In Bangladesh, esports has yet to receive the recognition it deserves. Many still view gaming as a waste of time or even a negative influence, hindering the industry’s growth. However, esports has the potential to become a professional sector in Bangladesh if it receives the proper value and investment. Fortunately, the younger generation is making contributions to the gaming industry.
Bangladeshi developers have gained international recognition, especially with games like Zero Hour, which created significant buzz both locally and globally. The game’s update trailer was even posted on IGN’s official YouTube channel, marking a major milestone for the country. Additionally, A1 Esports from Bangladesh participated in the global PUBG Mobile tournament, and small-scale university esports tournaments are slowly becoming more common. Recently, Arena of Valor hosted a tournament in Bangladesh with a prize pool worth several lakh taka, showing promising developments in the local esports scene.
Conclusion:
Gaming is gradually transforming from a mere pastime into a new professional domain. In this new century, with advancements in technology and AI, both the gaming industry and the perception of gaming are evolving. Many countries already recognize gaming as a viable profession, and esports is opening doors to new opportunities.
If Bangladesh can keep up with these developments, it too will secure a place in this global arena. In the near future, esports tournaments could garner the same excitement and viewership as events like the Football World Cup or the Olympics. Esports is no longer just a form of entertainment—it is a gateway to new possibilities.
