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In this post, we will check out the 10 most popular esports games in 2023.

Esports, or competitive video gaming, has become a massive industry in recent years. With a global audience of over 500 million people, the esports market is expected to generate over $1 billion in revenue by 2023.

As esports continues to grow, so does the popularity of certain games within the community. In this article, we will be exploring the 10 most popular esports games in 2023.

These games have gained a dedicated following of players and fans alike, with professional tournaments and leagues regularly held for each title.

From first-person shooters to multiplayer online battle arenas, these games offer a range of different gameplay styles and genres for esports enthusiasts to enjoy.

So whether you’re a seasoned esports fan or just getting into the scene, these 10 games are definitely worth checking out.

10 Most Popular Esports Games 2023

10. NBA 2K20

NBA 2K20 has remained a popular esports game since its release in 2019, and in 2023 it continues to be one of the 10 most popular esports games.

This basketball simulation game, developed by Visual Concepts and published by 2K Sports, has gained a large following of players who enjoy competing against each other online.

With its realistic graphics, smooth gameplay, and various game modes, NBA 2K20 provides a thrilling esports experience for both casual and competitive players.

One of the reasons why NBA 2K20 remains popular in the esports scene is its extensive online multiplayer features.

Players can compete against each other in different modes, such as Play Now, MyTeam, and MyCareer. In Play Now, players can choose from a roster of current and classic NBA teams to compete against each other in online matches.

MyTeam allows players to build their own dream team by collecting player cards and competing in various tournaments and challenges.

Lastly, MyCareer lets players create their own player and take them through a storyline mode where they can compete in the NBA and improve their skills.

The competitive scene of NBA 2K20 has also contributed to its popularity in esports. The game’s developer, 2K Sports, has organized various esports tournaments and leagues, such as the NBA 2K League, where players can compete for a share of a large prize pool.

Additionally, NBA 2K20 has also been included in other esports events, such as the Intel Extreme Masters and the Electronic Sports World Cup, which further showcases its competitive potential.

Overall, NBA 2K20 has proven to be a long-lasting and popular esports game due to its engaging gameplay and competitive scene.

As the esports industry continues to grow, it’s likely that NBA 2K20 will continue to remain popular among players and spectators alike.

9. Apex Legends

In 2023, Apex Legends solidified its position as one of the 10 most popular esports games in the world. The game, developed by Respawn Entertainment and published by Electronic Arts, has grown significantly since its release in 2019, becoming a fan-favorite among gamers and esports enthusiasts alike.

One of the key factors contributing to Apex Legends’ popularity as an esports game is its fast-paced gameplay and unique battle royale format.

The game features 60-player matches where players fight to be the last one standing, with a constantly shrinking play area forcing players into intense battles. The game’s unique character abilities and weapon selection add an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay, making each match exciting and unpredictable.

Another factor contributing to Apex Legends’ success as an esports game is the support from its developers and publisher. Respawn Entertainment has been actively working to improve the game’s esports infrastructure, hosting regular tournaments and providing significant prize pools for players to compete for.

Electronic Arts have also been investing in the game’s competitive scene, including sponsoring esports teams and hosting major events.

In addition to the support from its developers and publisher, Apex Legends has also garnered a dedicated fan base that is passionate about the game’s esports scene.

Fans tune in to watch professional players compete in major tournaments, and many also follow their favorite streamers and content creators on platforms like Twitch and YouTube.

Overall, Apex Legends’ popularity as an esports game in 2023 is a testament to the game’s engaging gameplay, strong support from its developers and publisher, and passionate fan base.

With continued investment in the game’s competitive scene and the growth of esports as a whole, it’s likely that Apex Legends will continue to be a major player in the world of esports for years to come.

8. PUBG

PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) has remained one of the top esports games in 2023. The game’s popularity has remained high due to its unique gameplay, immersive graphics, and competitive features.

The game’s battle royale mode, which pits up to 100 players against each other on a shrinking island, has remained a fan favorite.

Players must scavenge for weapons, ammunition, and resources while avoiding other players and staying within the safe zone. This model has become the cornerstone of PUBG’s success in esports.

PUBG’s esports scene has also continued to thrive. The game’s developer, PUBG Corporation, has organized numerous tournaments and leagues, including the PUBG Global Championship, which offers a prize pool of millions of dollars.

These events attract some of the best players in the world and showcase the game’s competitive potential. The game’s esports community has also grown, with more players and organizations participating in events and creating content.

One of the key factors that have contributed to PUBG’s success in esports is its accessibility. Unlike some other esports titles that require high-end computers or specialized equipment, PUBG can be played on a wide range of devices, including smartphones and consoles. This accessibility has helped the game reach a broader audience and has made it easier for new players to join the scene.

PUBG’s success in esports has also been driven by its continuous updates and improvements. The game’s developer has regularly released new content, including maps, weapons, and game modes.

These updates have kept the game fresh and exciting for players, and have also helped to balance gameplay and fix bugs. PUBG’s development team has also listened to feedback from the community, implementing changes and features requested by players.

In conclusion, PUBG has remained one of the 10 most popular esports games in 2023 due to its unique gameplay, competitive features, and thriving esports scene.

The game’s accessibility and continuous updates have also contributed to its success. As esports continues to grow as a global phenomenon, PUBG is poised to remain a major player in the industry.

7. Valorant

Valorant has emerged as one of the most popular esports games in 2023, attracting millions of players and viewers from around the world.

Developed by Riot Games, the game is a tactical first-person shooter that combines elements of classic titles like Counter-Strike with innovative gameplay mechanics, such as unique character abilities and a dynamic map system.

Its popularity can be attributed to its competitive gameplay, which requires teamwork, strategy, and precision aiming, making it an ideal title for esports tournaments.

One of the key factors that have contributed to Valorant’s success as an esports game is the high skill ceiling it offers. Players must master not only the standard shooting and movement mechanics but also the unique abilities of each character, which can be used to gain a tactical advantage over opponents.

This complexity has made Valorant an attractive title for players seeking a challenge, and its esports scene has attracted some of the most skilled players from other popular games like Overwatch and CS: GO.

Additionally, the game’s ranked matchmaking system ensures that players are matched with opponents of similar skill levels, making for more balanced and exciting games.

Finally, the popularity of Valorant can also be attributed to its growing community of dedicated fans and content creators. As such, it is not surprising that Valorant has emerged as one of the most popular esports games in 2023, and it is likely to remain a fixture of the esports landscape for years to come.

6. Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege

Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege is a tactical shooter game developed by Ubisoft. It has gained immense popularity in the esports world and has been listed as one of the 10 most popular esports games in 2023.

The game features intense multiplayer gameplay where two teams of operators, attackers, and defenders, engage in a variety of objectives such as rescuing hostages, defusing bombs, and securing locations.

One of the reasons behind Rainbow Six Siege’s success is its emphasis on team coordination and strategy. Each operator has a unique set of abilities that can complement their teammates’ skills and playstyles.

The game rewards players who can adapt and communicate effectively with their team, making it a popular choice for competitive play.

Rainbow Six Siege has also benefited from Ubisoft’s continued support and development of the game. The developers have released regular updates and new content, including new operators, maps, and game modes. This has kept the game fresh and exciting for players and has helped to maintain its competitive scene.

The game has several organized leagues and tournaments, including the Rainbow Six Pro League and the Six Invitational. These events feature some of the best players and teams from around the world, competing for large prize pools and prestige.

Overall, Rainbow Six Siege’s popularity as an esports game can be attributed to its focus on teamwork, strategic gameplay, and developer support. As the game continues to grow and evolve, it is likely that it will remain a prominent title in the esports world for years to come.

5. Dota 2

In 2023, Dota 2 continues to be one of the most popular esports games worldwide. Developed by Valve Corporation, Dota 2 has been a major player in the esports industry since its release in 2013.

The game is played by two teams of five players each, with the objective of destroying the enemy team’s “Ancient” structure located in their base. The game’s complexity and strategic depth have helped it maintain a dedicated player base and a thriving competitive scene.

One of the reasons for Dota 2’s enduring popularity is its accessibility. The game is free-to-play and available on Steam, one of the largest digital distribution platforms for PC games.

Additionally, the game’s tutorials and in-game guides provide an easy entry point for new players. However, mastering the game’s mechanics and strategies requires a significant amount of time and practice. This high skill ceiling has helped Dota 2 maintain its appeal to competitive players and spectators alike.

Another factor contributing to Dota 2’s popularity is its esports scene. The game’s annual championship event, The International, is one of the largest esports tournaments in the world.

The tournament’s prestige and high stakes attract the world’s best Dota 2 teams, with players competing for the chance to win both fame and fortune.

Dota 2’s continued popularity is a testament to its engaging gameplay and thriving esports scene. As the esports industry continues to grow, it’s likely that Dota 2 will remain a fixture of the competitive gaming landscape for years to come.

Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the game, Dota 2 offers a deep and rewarding experience for players and spectators alike.

4. League of Legends

League of Legends continues to cement its position as one of the 10 most popular esports games globally. The game’s popularity can be attributed to its engaging gameplay, frequent updates, and competitive scene.

With over 150 champions to choose from, players can experiment with different strategies, making the game infinitely replayable.

League of Legends competitive scene has continued to grow in recent years. The game’s World Championship is one of the biggest esports events globally and draws millions of viewers every year.

With teams from around the world competing, the World Championship has become a cultural phenomenon. The event showcases the best players and teams in the world, and the prize pool continues to grow every year, with millions of dollars on the line.

The game’s developer, Riot Games, has also played a significant role in its continued success. Riot Games is known for its commitment to the game’s development, frequently releasing updates and new champions to keep the game fresh.

They also have an active esports division, which organizes tournaments and supports professional players. With such strong support from the developer and a thriving competitive scene, it’s no surprise that League of Legends remains one of the 10 most popular esports games in 2023.

In conclusion, League of Legends’ popularity in the esports world shows no signs of slowing down. With Riot Games’ continued commitment to the game’s development and esports scene, it’s likely that League of Legends will remain a staple in the esports world for years to come.

3. Splatoon 2

Splatoon 2 is a colorful and exciting third-person shooter game developed and published by Nintendo. Released in 2017, it has quickly gained popularity as an esports game due to its fast-paced gameplay, unique mechanics, and competitive nature.

Players take on the role of squid-like creatures called Inklings and compete in a variety of game modes, including Turf War, Splat Zones, Tower Control, and Rainmaker.

Turf War, the most popular mode in Splatoon 2, involves teams of four players competing to cover the most ground with their ink.

This mode requires strategy, teamwork, and skill, as players must work together to control the map and prevent the opposing team from covering their territory. Splat Zones, Tower Control, and Rainmaker are equally challenging, with each mode requiring different tactics and strategies to win.

Splatoon 2 has a vibrant competitive scene, with tournaments and leagues held regularly around the world. Professional players and teams compete for large prize pools, and the game has even been featured at major esports events such as the Nintendo World Championships.

The game’s popularity as an esports title has only grown over time, with more and more players taking up the game and joining the competitive scene.

One of the reasons Splatoon 2 has become such a popular esports game is its accessibility. The game is easy to learn but difficult to master, making it appealing to both casual and professional players.

The game’s colorful and quirky style also sets it apart from other esports titles, attracting a wide range of players and fans. With its unique mechanics, fast-paced gameplay, and competitive scene, Splatoon 2 is undoubtedly one of the most popular esports games in 2023 and will continue to be a fan favorite for years to come.

2. Fortnite

Fortnite has cemented its place as one of the top 10 most popular esports games in 2023. This battle royale game developed by Epic Games has amassed a huge following since its release in 2017, with millions of players around the world joining in the fast-paced action every day.

The game’s unique blend of building mechanics, gunplay, and fast-paced gameplay has made it a favorite among gamers and spectators alike.

One of the reasons for Fortnite’s success as an esports game is its accessibility. The game is free to play and available on multiple platforms, including PC, consoles, and mobile devices.

This has made it easy for players to get started and compete against others from all over the world. Additionally, Epic Games has invested heavily in the game’s esports scene, hosting numerous tournaments and offering substantial prize pools. This has attracted some of the best players in the world, making for exciting and intense competitions.

Epic Games regularly updates the game with new weapons, items, and gameplay mechanics, keeping the game fresh and interesting. This has also allowed the esports scene to stay relevant, with new strategies and playstyles emerging as the game evolves. As a result, Fortnite has managed to maintain a dedicated player base and a thriving esports scene.

Fortnite’s popularity in esports shows no signs of slowing down in 2023. With the game’s continued updates and support from Epic Games, as well as the dedication of its passionate community of players and fans, it is sure to remain one of the most popular and exciting esports games for years to come.

1. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS: GO)

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS: GO) has proven to be a dominant force in the world of esports since its release in 2012.

The game is played in a 5v5 format, where one team takes on the role of terrorists, while the other team plays as counter-terrorists. The objective of the game is for the terrorists to plant a bomb or take hostages, while the counter-terrorists aim to prevent these objectives from being achieved. The game is played on a variety of maps, each with its own unique layout and strategies.

One of the reasons why CS: GO has remained popular over the years is its competitive nature. The game requires precise aim, quick reflexes, and strategic thinking. Players must work together as a team to outsmart their opponents and win rounds.

The game is also constantly evolving, with new maps, weapons, and game modes being added regularly. This keeps the game fresh and exciting for both players and viewers alike.

In 2023, CS: GO continues to be a major esports title, with millions of players and fans around the world. The game has a thriving competitive scene, with multiple tournaments and leagues taking place throughout the year.

The biggest CS: GO tournament is the Valve-sponsored Major Championship, which attracts the best teams from around the world to compete for a multi-million dollar prize pool. Other major tournaments include the ESL Pro League, the BLAST Premier, and the Intel Extreme Masters.

Overall, CS: GO’s popularity in 2023 can be attributed to its high skill ceiling, competitive gameplay, and constantly evolving meta. As the game continues to grow and develop, it will undoubtedly remain one of the most popular esports games for years to come.