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Esports trends in 2022 and beyond Introduction
INTRODUCTION
Charting the evolution of a rapidly moving sector
IF THE last two years have shown us anything , it ’ s that the industry is more than equipped to handle the impact of global pandemics , supply and labour shortages , and depressed economies . The events of 2020 and 2021 have done little to impact esports viewership , participation and betting enthusiasm .
This esports report , sponsored by Abios , aims to highlight some of the most important developments in the esports and esports betting industry in 2021 . It will also uncover some of the key opportunities and challenges for the sector in 2022 and beyond .
Cybersecurity has been one of the most significant threats facing global businesses in 2021 . From employees working from home over unsecured networks , to students moving to online classes , there has never been a more accommodating environment for cybercriminals to disrupt the very platforms on which esports is supposed to thrive . Just look at the cybersecurity threats facing our industry , such as DDoS , malware , ransomware and data breaches . These affect all walks of life from developers , publishers , platforms and tournaments , to betting operators and their service providers , players and punters themselves .
Meanwhile , China , the world ’ s largest esports market with more than 660 million gamers and 400 million esports fans , placed harsh restrictions on young gamers in 2021 , effectively limiting them to three hours of video game time per week .
DESPITE THE PANDEMIC
2021 global esports revenue
$ 1.1bn UP 14.5 %
Source : Newzoo
Despite this , the esports industry is
2021 global esports audience
474m UP 8.7 %
Esports trends in 2022 and beyond