Watching a big esports event is more fun when you've made a prediction. But you don't have to bet real money to do it. Here are three ways to play — from (mostly) free to real stakes.
1. Pick'em (free or low cost)
Many events run official Pick'em challenges. For CS2 Majors, Valve's in-game Pick'em lets you predict stage results, but the upgradeable Major coin and the rewards that come with it require a Viewer Pass you have to buy and activate.[1] LoL Worlds and other events have their own versions, usually free. Cost: free, or the price of a pass for the rewards. Risk: no stake beyond that. A good way to test your knowledge.
2. Fantasy esports
Pick a roster of real players and score points from their in-game stats. Formats range from free season-long leagues to paid daily contests where legal. Cost: free to paid. Risk: depends on the entry fee — paid daily contests can cost as much as betting if you play a lot.
3. Real-money betting
Bet on outcomes at licensed sportsbooks or regulated prediction markets. Cost: your stakes. Risk: real money. It's the most intense, and the one that needs limits.
| Pick'em | Fantasy | Betting | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free (CS2 rewards need a paid pass) | Free/paid entry fees | Stakes |
| Skill tested | Predictions | Player stats | Prices vs probability |
| Risk | None beyond any pass | Entry fees | Real money |
| Age | Varies | Usually 18+ | 18+/21+ |
If you do bet
Choose a licensed operator — see best esports betting sites — set a budget, and never use skins. Start with esports betting for beginners.
Sources
- CS2 Major Pick'em — Valve / Counter-Strike ↩
