Esports betting operators are facing a new set of challenges, as growth and attracting bettors are no longer the primary obstacles. Data reveals that a significant customer base exists, particularly among tech-savvy millennials and Gen Z, who made up approximately 87% of esports bettors in 2024. This younger demographic, however, exhibits distinct betting behavior compared to traditional sports fans.
These bettors are drawn to the fast-paced nature of esports and foster a sense of community, while also engaging with content in unique ways. Esports betting offers numerous interactive possibilities, including in-play live betting options, micro-bets on specific in-game events, and opportunities to connect with other bettors.
Many esports bettors possess extensive knowledge about the titles and players they support, influencing their betting choices. Notably, 85% of esports wagers are placed live during competitions, making it crucial for operators to provide information swiftly. If a bettor clicks away for details, the risk of losing them increases. Thus, the esports betting experience extends beyond merely watching a stream and placing a win bet.
Analysts estimate the global esports betting market at nearly $600 million in 2025, projecting growth to over $700 million in 2026, with an eventual valuation surpassing $3.4 billion by 2035. To compete effectively, operators must eschew traditional betting models and adopt innovative strategies.
Oddin.gg, a provider of esports betting solutions, believes it has identified a way for operators to adapt to these unique betting habits. The company focuses on creating tools that enhance user engagement, such as its recent launch of BetPeek, which transforms how users interact with esports content.
Marek Suchar, co-founder and managing director of Oddin.gg, stated that BetPeek has redefined the esports betting and viewing experience. He explained that while typical streaming platforms dictate how viewers watch the game, BetPeek allows users to control their perspective, following the action from various angles.
This tool enables bettors to navigate the map and choose to view opponents through walls, tailoring their experience to their preferences. Additionally, BetPeek integrates contextual overlays with esports streams, combining betting and viewing into a single interface. Suchar emphasized that this approach enhances user interaction without requiring bettors to switch screens.
The tool has only been available for a few months, but operators using BetPeek have already noted significant effects, with one in four bettors engaging with it. BetPeek also minimizes the delays associated with public streaming platforms, making it particularly appealing to dedicated bettors. Suchar reported increased viewing times by more than seven minutes and two to three times more interactions compared to standard streams.
Users can also receive personalized content based on their viewing habits, whether focused on a specific team or player. Suchar hinted at ongoing developments for BetPeek, including plans to expand beyond its initial support for Counter-Strike 2 to other popular games, starting with Dota 2.
Despite the excitement surrounding esports betting, some industry observers view it as niche and underdeveloped. Suchar countered this misconception, highlighting that Oddin.gg has seen several billion euros in wagering volume through its partner network over the past year.
Esports is often linked to a younger audience but attracts a broader demographic as well. Many popular games were released over a decade ago, and the players who began in their 20s and 30s are now continuing into their 30s and 40s. Addressing historical limitations—such as low uptime and limited market options—is crucial for the sector's growth.
Suchar pointed out that the experience of a football match with no betting options in the second half mirrors past issues in esports, where uptime was often only 50%. To retain the modern generation of bettors, user-friendly access to on-demand content is essential. Bettors accustomed to platforms like Twitch and Kick expect seamless experiences.
Looking ahead, Oddin.gg aims to enhance engagement levels in esports betting, whether through extending the reach of existing products or creating new tools. Suchar affirmed the responsibility of companies like Oddin.gg to deliver solutions that keep users engaged for the long term. The company is committed to developing 24/7 interaction-driven tools, with BetPeek serving as the initial step toward a more digital and user-centric approach in esports betting.
In this evolving space, empowering bettors with control is crucial. "We are changing the formula through BetPeek and other upcoming tools," Suchar concluded, underscoring the potential for further innovation in this dynamic market.
