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Top PC Gaming Tournaments: Discover the Best of the Best.
PC gaming is an activity enjoyed by millions around the world. With so much choice of games and platforms, PC gaming tournaments have become an increasingly popular way to experience exciting activities.
Whether you’re a pro gamer, spectator or simply curious to know more, joining or watching PC gaming tournaments offers a wealth of opportunities. This blog guide will introduce you to the best PC gaming tournaments, how to get involved, and why it’s worth participating.
What Are PC Gaming Tournaments?
First off, let’s cover the basics. So, what are PC gaming tournaments? Well, at a competitive level, players from around the world come together with the same game to compete in round-based contests. The idea is that players battle against one another in various challenges — both virtual and real life.
The aim of most PC gaming tournaments is to win a large cash prize. That’s why many of the popular games, like Dota 2 or League of Legends, are free-to-play, as it allows for a larger competitive field.
Different Types of PC Gaming Tournaments
Before you get involved in any PC gaming tournament, it’s important to understand the different types on offer. Here’s an overview of the three main types:
Online PC Gaming Tournaments
Online tournaments are by far the most popular and accessible type of PC gaming tournament. As the name implies, these events take place over the internet — either through live broadcasts or video on demand (VOD). The competition is viewable by anyone with an internet connection.
Most online tournaments feature games in the MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena), FPS (First Person Shooter), or RTS (Real Time Strategy) genres. These are all team-based or solo player games — a great way to improve your individual or group skills.
The main prize on offer will depend on the tournament organizer and ‘sponsor’ of the event. But usually, you can expect anything from a cash pot of thousands of dollars and professional gaming gear to cool merchandise or free entry to a world-class event.
Offline PC Gaming Tournaments
Unlike online gaming tournaments, offline events take place at designated locations, where players must physically be present to compete. Typically, these tournaments occur over several days and feature competitions and activities from multiple games.
Offline events are hugely popular with gamers, as they allow for a unique opportunity to meet new people, learn about the game, and possibly even snag a cool prize.
Live Streaming Tournaments
Live streaming tournaments are unique contests broadcasted to audiences via an online video platform like Twitch. They have become increasingly popular, as millions of viewers tune in to watch professional players compete.
Most stream tournaments feature strategy or MOBA games — as they are incredibly easy to learn and play. However, some also offer massive cash prizes or all-expenses-paid trips to LAN (Local Area Network) events.
The Benefits of PC Gaming Tournaments
Competing in a PC gaming tournament is not only fun but can also be highly beneficial. Here are some of the main rewards you might gain:
• Improved self-confidence – Playing in a tournament gives you the motivation to improve your individual or team gaming skills. It may also help to develop your strategic thinking and increase your self-confidence on a personal level.
• Increased recognition – Taking part in tournaments enables you to receive recognition and build an online reputation — great if you’re looking to take gaming to the next level.
• Better networking opportunities – Many gaming competitions are part of larger events, where you can network with like-minded gamers and industry professionals. This can open up even more opportunities for your career or social life.
• Invitation to global events – If you’re good enough to represent your country, you could be invited to compete in renowned international tournaments, such as the World Cyber Games.
The Best PC Gaming Tournaments
Let’s take a look at some of the best PC gaming tournaments, so you can choose the one that’s right for you. Here are a few events worth checking out…
• iBUYPOWER Cup – This is a popular offline tournament taking place in the US and Canada, with a total prize pool of $100,000 up for grabs. Participating teams must qualify through online qualifiers and the tournament is open to almost every game — not just PC games.
• ESL Pro Series – This is a major international competition with a great cash prize of around $3-$4 million. Players compete in various online qualifiers and the top competitors go on to compete in the event’s main tournament.
• DreamHack – DreamHack is a series of events spanning the entire world, with an impressive $2.1 million prize purse. With activities such as tournaments, music concerts, and other cool experiences, DreamHack is an essential event for any gamer.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are plenty of opportunities to take part in PC gaming tournaments. From large-scale international events to small regional competitions, there’s sure to be a suitable competition for you.
As with any competitive event, it takes time, skill, and dedication to succeed. But if you’re an avid gamer with the necessary qualities, you can turn your passion into a successful career.
And why not get started today? Who knows, you could be the world champion one day!
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