Esports in Asia: Particular Qualities You Need to Know If You Want to Join
The surge of esports in Asia has been phenomenal. It is so great that this region is now recognized as the global hub for gaming tournaments in the competitive scene. Asia boasts a rich cultural acceptance of competitive gaming and a growing infrastructure for the industry. This is thanks to the massive support from investors and fans.
This gives hope to many who are interested in working along this path. This region represents a land of hope and opportunity for aspiring esports players, content creators, and organizations. Despite its bloom, it is not advisable to enter this industry blindly. Rather, you should enter this space with adequate comprehension of its unique qualities and potential strategies for becoming successful. For this reason, we’ll guide how to navigate Asia’s thriving esports ecosystem.
The Esports Ecosystem in Asia
Asia does not operate by a uniform or rigid structure. Each country that forms a part of this region has its vibrant gaming scene with unique quirks. To understand this, we have to explore the countries that form this region one after the other. Let’s begin.
- South Korea: This is identified as the origin of modern sports. The country has a deeply ingrained gaming culture. This is evident in the fact that games like League of Legends (LoL), StarCraft, and Overwatch spearhead the industry.
- China: The country is regarded as the world’s largest gaming market. It leads in the industry with games like League of Legends (LoL), Honor of Kings, and Dota 2. Also, China’s gaming scene is supported by platforms like NetEase and Tencent.
- Southeast Asia (SEA) includes countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand. They are famous for dominating mobile esports with games like PUBG Mobile and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB).
- Japan: The country is popular for its console gaming industry. In addition, Japan has started to embrace the competitive gaming scene, especially in fighting games like Super Smash Bros and Street Fighter.
- India: This is an emerging market in the industry. India influences mobile gaming with game options like Free Fire and BGMI (Battlegrounds Mobile India).
Mobile gaming reigns supreme in Southeast Asia and India because of the accessibility and affordability of smartphones. In contrast, countries like China and South Korea are dominated by PC gaming. Also, console gaming is popular in Japan. With these coordinating differences, Asia remains a perfect and unique opportunity for developers and competitors to start something.
The Distincting Factors of Asia Esports
Asia esports players are acknowledged for their dedication and work ethic because a lot of work goes on behind the scenes. This part of the world enjoys government and corporate support. Also, Asia fans are very loyal and engaged in all activities happening within. This has greatly contributed to the possibility of vibrant online communities, too. Platforms like YouTube Gaming (India/SEA), Douyu (China), and Naver (Korea) boost live-streaming and content consumption at an unparalleled scale. Hence, the following are tips for aspiring players.
- Understand the regional preference by studying popular games and genres in your targeted area.
- Invest in equipment because quality hardware can greatly improve your performance.
- Attend events and join online communities to network actively and connect with professionals in the industry.
- Learning popular games is essential.
- Select your niche based on your region’s preference. For example, focus on LoL or StarCraft in Korea, mobile games like MLBB in Southeast Asia, and explore fighting games in Japan.
- Competitive gaming involves teamwork and communication. So, being skilled in this aspect gives you an edge for success.
- Gaming trends see rapid changes from time to time. Stay abreast of new updates, strategies, and game releases.
Ultimately, it is important to note that competitive gaming is intense competition and can lead to burnout. This is why you need to focus on your mental well-being. Create a balanced schedule for practice, rest, and other things in your life. Building mental and physical resilience can help maintain a healthy lifestyle and successful career. To become a part of Asian esports players, you can try;
- Local and online tournaments
- Participating in community tournaments on platforms like Challonge or Garena
- Attend grassroots events hosted by local gaming hubs and cafes to network
These are places to begin if you are scouting for a professional team. Joining online tournaments and making it to the leaderboards are contributing factors. You can also network with managers and coaches through gaming forums like Discord communities. Some regions like China and South Korea even have esports academies where players can train under seasoned professionals. Besides playing, an alternative and related career path is creating esports content. Building a following on platforms like Douyu (China), Nimo TV (SEA), or YouTube can lead to sponsorships and opportunities.
A Blend of Skill, Strategy, and Resilience
Joining the esports scene in Asia is not child’s play. It requires an understanding of its unique cultural and infrastructural aspects. So whether you are an aspiring coach, content creator, or player, there is a chance to grow in this ever-dynamic industry. With resilience, being aware of the regional trends, and maximizing opportunities, you have a chance. You can have a successful career in Asia's esports ecosystem, too.