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Level up! The top 10 eSports games dominating 2024
eSports is bigger than ever in 2024. Whether you’re a fan cheering for your favourite team or a gamer chasing glory in the competitive arena, this year has been packed with epic plays, nail-biting moments, and jaw-dropping prize pools. At MATE, we know that staying connected is everything, which is why our internet and mobile plans are designed to deliver the speed and reliability you need to game, stream, and stay in touch with your community.
Let’s dive into the top esports games lighting up the global stage this year.
1. League of Legends (LoL)
When it comes to esports, League of Legends is the GOAT. This strategic MOBA (that’s Multiplayer Online Battle Arena, if you’re new to the scene) sees teams battling it out to destroy the enemy’s Nexus. With events like the Mid-Season Invitational and Worlds breaking records every year, LoL continues to dominate with its fast-paced gameplay and global fanbase.
- Peak Viewership: 2.8M at Mid Season Invitational 2024
- Total Prize Pool: $5.6M+
2. Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (Mobile)
MLBB is taking the esports world by storm—especially in Southeast Asia. This mobile MOBA packs all the strategy of its PC counterparts into quick, action-packed matches you can play anywhere. It’s perfect for gamers on the go. Mobile Legends has gained signifcant traction in the eSports scene, racking in a whopping 2.3m+ views at the ‘M4 World Championship’ and approximately $4.3m in prize money.
3. Counter Strike 2
A timeless classic, originally starting as a mod for Half Life, Counter Strike has continued to dominate the first person shooter scene. Counter Strike 2, the latest iteration of the game, released in 2023 by Valve, sees the iconic franchise overhauled with updated graphic, new and improvement gameplay mechanics while maintaining the very essence of what makes Counter Strike unique. CS2 is a staple in the eSports scene, with tournaments such as ESL Pro League and Intel Extreme Masters racking in millions of views and generating millions in prize pool money.
- Peak Viewership: 1,853,954 (PGL Major Copenhagen 2024)
- Total Prize Pool: $14m+
4. Valorant
Riot Games hit another home run with Valorant. This tactical FPS blends pinpoint shooting with unique agent abilities that are reminiscent to games like Overwatch, giving players and teams endless ways to strategize. The Valorant Champions Tour continues to pull massive crowds due to Riot’s significant investment into the eSports scene, prioritising gameplay integrity above all, proving that this game is here to stay with its massive 4 million+ current active player count.
- Peak Viewership: 1,687,848 (VCT Masters Madrid)
- Total Prize Pool: $6.2m+
5. Dota 2
Love it or fear it, Dota 2’s complexity is what makes it a powerhouse in esports. Its annual event, The International, boasts jaw-dropping prize pools and matches that have you on the edge of your seat.
- Peak Viewership: 1,523,957 (The International)
- Total Prize Pool: $17m+
6. Fortnite
Fortnite is more than just a game—it’s a cultural phenomenon. With its unique building mechanics and massive battle royales, it remains a crowd-pleaser for casual and serious gamers alike. The game’s eSport scene really took off with the introduction of the Fortnite World Cup in 2019 and the annual Fortnite Champion Series (FNCS) and continues to be a staple in eSports viewing.
- Peak Viewership: 809,854 (FNCS Global Championship)
- Total Prize Pool: Approx $10m+
7. Arena of Valor (Mobile)
Short, sharp, and action-packed, AoV is another mobile MOBA with a dedicated following, especially in Asia. Its fast-paced gameplay is perfect for both casual gamers and esports professionals.
- Peak Viewership: 713K at the AoV International Championship
- Total Prize Pool: $7M+’
8. Apex Legends
Developed by Respawn Entertainment and released in 2019, Apex Legends is still going strong. A unique, hero-based battle royale shooter that emphasises fast paced gameplay and strategic teamwork that makes for encapsulating viewing in the eSports scene.
- Peak Viewership: 567,582 (ALGS Championship 2024)
- Total Prize Money: $4m+
9. PUBG Mobile
The mobile adaptation of the popular PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds, is one of the most popular mobile games in the world. A third person, battle royale shooter, this game has an extensive eSports scene, with tournaments such as the PUBG Mobile Global Championship racking in huge audiences, particularly in Asian and Latin America regions.
- Peak Viewership: 566,118 (PUBG Mobile World Invitational)
- Total Prize Pool: $6.7m+
10. Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege
Ubisoft’s tactical, hero-based, first person shooter takes last spot in this blog post. A team of attackers vs defenders that compete in close quarters combat, utilising unique operators with specialised gadgets. This game has attracted a dedicated competitive following due to it’s high skill ceiling and strategic depth, making eSports tournaments such as the R6 Invitational and Pro League must watches for R6 fans and gamers alike.
- Peak Viewership: 521,374 (R6 Invitational)
- Total Prize Pool: $6.6m+
At MATE, we make sure you’re always ready to level up—whether you’re streaming, gaming, or staying connected with your squad. Check out our unbeatable internet and mobile deals, designed to keep you in the game and ahead of the competition.
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