Esports has exploded into a global phenomenon, with millions of fans tuning in to watch professional gamers compete in high-stakes tournaments. Alongside this growth, esports crypto betting has emerged as a thrilling way to engage with the scene, offering fast transactions, enhanced privacy, and exciting wagering opportunities.
In 2025, the esports betting landscape is more dynamic than ever, with certain games dominating the market due to their competitive depth and massive followings. This post dives into the top five Esports games to bet on this year, focusing on League of Legends (LoL), Valorant, Dota 2, Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), and Overwatch 2.
Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or new to the crypto gambling world, these games offer diverse markets and high-energy action.
Why Bet on Esports with Crypto in 2025?
Crypto betting has transformed the Esports gambling scene by offering near-instant deposits and withdrawals, lower fees, and a layer of anonymity that traditional payment methods can’t match. Platforms like Thunderpick and BC.Game have embraced cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether, making it easier for bettors to dive into the action.
However, crypto’s volatility means you need to be strategic—a $100 Bitcoin deposit today could be worth $50 or $200 tomorrow. Always choose licensed platforms, such as those regulated by the Curaçao Gaming Authority, to ensure safety and fairness. For a deeper dive into secure betting practices, check out Esports.net’s guide to crypto betting.
The Top 5 Esports Games to Bet On in 2025
1. League of Legends (LoL): The MOBA Giant
League of Legends remains the undisputed king of esports, boasting over 7 million peak viewers for its 2024 World Championship. This 5v5 multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game pits teams against each other to destroy the enemy’s Nexus, with strategy and teamwork at its core.
LoL’s betting markets are vast, including match winner, first blood, total kills, and tournament outrights. The game’s rich data, like player stats and team performance, makes it ideal for informed wagers.
Major events like the LoL World Championship and Mid-Season Invitational offer high-stakes betting opportunities, with crypto platforms like GG.Bet providing live streaming and in-play odds.
Betting Tip: Research team compositions and patch notes, as balance changes can shift the meta, impacting outcomes.
2. Valorant: The Tactical Shooter Sensation
Since its 2020 release, Valorant, Riot Games’ 5v5 tactical shooter, has skyrocketed in popularity, thanks to its blend of precise gunplay and unique agent abilities. The Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) draws massive crowds, with 2024’s championship peaking at over 1.5 million viewers.
Betting markets include map winner, total rounds, and player-specific props like first kills. Crypto betting sites like Betplay offer live streaming, letting you track momentum shifts in real-time. Valorant’s fast-paced matches make it perfect for in-play betting, where odds shift dynamically.
Betting Tip: Focus on teams with strong duelists and map control, as these factors often decide close matches.
3. Dota 2: The Strategic Powerhouse
Dota 2, another MOBA titan, is known for its complex gameplay and massive prize pools, with The International offering over $40 million in 2024. Its fantasy setting and diverse hero pool create unpredictable matches, fueling betting markets like first Roshan kill, total towers destroyed, and match duration.
Crypto platforms like Pinnacle provide prop bets and competitive odds, especially during major tournaments. Dota 2’s depth rewards bettors who study team strategies and draft phases.
Betting Tip: Watch for underdog teams in early tournament stages, as Dota 2’s complexity often leads to upsets.
4. Counter-Strike 2 (CS2): The FPS Legend
Counter-Strike 2, the latest iteration of the iconic first-person shooter, thrives on intense, round-based gameplay. Its betting markets include map totals, bomb plants, and pistol round winners, with live betting thriving due to the game’s fast-paced nature.
Major events like the PGL Major attract millions, and crypto sites like CoinCasino offer over 100 markets per match. CS2’s long history ensures a wealth of analytics for strategic betting.
Betting Tip: Analyze team economy management, as early round wins can snowball into dominance.
5. Overwatch 2: The Hero Shooter Comeback
Overwatch 2 has regained traction in 2025 with the revamped Overwatch Champions Series. This 6v6 hero shooter emphasizes team synergy and role-based play, creating betting markets like match winner, total maps, and objective captures.
While not as dominant as LoL or Valorant, its growing popularity on platforms like BetOnline makes it a fresh betting option. The game’s colorful heroes and dynamic matches appeal to casual bettors.
Betting Tip: Prioritize teams with flexible players who can adapt to multiple heroes, as versatility often wins.
Visualizing Esports Betting Popularity
Below is a chart showcasing the estimated betting volume for the top esports titles in 2025, based on market trends and tournament viewership:
Game | Estimated Betting Volume (USD) | Key Tournament |
|---|---|---|
League of Legends | $500M | LoL World Championship |
Valorant | $300M | Valorant Champions Tour |
Dota 2 | $250M | The International |
Counter-Strike 2 | $200M | PGL Major |
Overwatch 2 | $100M | Overwatch Champions Series |
Note: These figures are projections based on 2024 data and industry growth trends.
Tips for Successful Esports Crypto Betting
Understand the Game Meta: Stay updated on patches and balance changes, as they impact team performance.
Diversify Bets: Spread wagers across games and markets to reduce risk.
Track Volatility: Monitor crypto value fluctuations to time your deposits and withdrawals.
Use Analytics: Leverage stats from sites like HLTV (for CS2) or VLR.gg (for Valorant) to inform bets.
Bet Responsibly: Set limits and only wager what you can afford to lose.
Conclusion
Esports crypto betting in 2025 is an electrifying way to engage with the competitive gaming world. From the strategic depth of League of Legends to the tactical precision of Valorant, these top five games offer diverse betting opportunities.
By choosing reputable crypto platforms and staying informed about game metas, you can elevate your betting experience.
Ready to dive in? Pick your favorite game, fund your wallet, and join the action—but always bet responsibly.