Esports and traditional sports involve similar levels of competitiveness, spectatorship, and community involvement, according to an article in Medium. While the activities are distinct – one features physical activity while the other involves professional gamers playing games to online and physical audiences – the writer argues the two disciplines share deep similarities. Gaming communities insist that esports requires dedication and skill comparable to traditional sports, and suggest that the former should establish its own rules and regulations. The author adds that traditional sports could benefit from technology incorporated into esports, such as using drones to capture camera angles.

Esports vs. Traditional Sports: Are They More Similar Than We Think?

Esports and traditional sports have often been compared and contrasted in terms of audience, fans, and players. Esports, also known as electronic sports, is a form of competitive gaming that involves professional gamers playing games in front of live and online audiences. On the other hand, traditional sports involve physical activity and typically take place in stadiums or sports arenas.

However, gaming communities have started to challenge these basic assumptions and argue that esports and traditional sports are more similar than we think. In this article, we will explore these similarities and discuss the perspectives from gaming communities.

Similarities Between Esports and Traditional Sports

One of the most significant similarities between esports and traditional sports is the level of competitiveness involved. Both forms of sport involve players who are highly skilled and dedicated, spending long hours practicing in order to improve their game. This commitment to improving performance is also apparent in the level of teamwork and strategy that is necessary to succeed in both esports and traditional sports.

A second similarity is the level of spectatorship involved. In traditional sports, fans gather in stadiums and sports arenas to watch their favorite teams compete. In esports, fans gather both online and in person to watch their favorite players compete in popular games such as League of Legends, Overwatch, and Dota 2. The level of excitement and engagement involved in both forms of sport is remarkable.

Finally, there is a strong sense of community in both esports and traditional sports. Players, fans, and even coaches have formed close bonds with one another, creating a sense of belonging and camaraderie that is hard to find elsewhere.

Perspectives from Gaming Communities

Gaming communities have become increasingly vocal about the similarities between esports and traditional sports. Many gamers argue that the two forms of sport require the same level of dedication and skill, and that esports players should be treated with the same level of respect as their traditional sports counterparts.

One popular argument from gaming communities is that esports should be considered a legitimate form of sport, with its own set of rules and regulations that are on par with those of traditional sports. Some even argue that esports should be included in the Olympics, given the level of skill and competition involved.

Another argument from gaming communities is that esports and traditional sports can learn from each other. For example, esports can benefit from incorporating more physical activity, such as incorporating VR technology to simulate physical movements. Alternatively, traditional sports can benefit from incorporating more technology to enhance the spectator experience, such as using drones to capture innovative camera angles and 3D models to simulate plays.

Conclusion

It is clear that esports and traditional sports share many similarities, including the level of competitiveness, spectatorship, and community involvement. As gaming communities continue to argue for the legitimacy of esports as a form of sport, it is important to recognize these similarities and find ways to incorporate the strengths of both forms of sport to create a more dynamic and impactful community for all.