Why Esports Needs More Unconventional Games

Title: Why Esports Needs More Unconventional Games
The world of esports has grown exponentially in the past decade, with games like League of Legends, Dota 2, and Overwatch garnering massive followings and prize pools. However, the dominance of these traditional esports titles has led to a lack of innovation and diversity in the competitive gaming scene. It’s time for esports to shake things up by incorporating more unconventional games, bringing new players and spectators into the fold.
One of the primary benefits of incorporating more unconventional games is the potential to attract a diverse range of players. Traditional esports titles often require a significant amount of time and dedication to master, which can be a barrier to entry for new players. Unconventional games, on the other hand, may require less skill and strategy, making them more accessible to a broader audience. This could lead to a more inclusive and diverse community, with participants from all walks of life.
Another advantage of unconventional games in esports is the ability to create new genres and gameplay mechanics. The same old formulas of first-person shooters and multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) can become stale, leading to a homogenization of the scene. Unconventional games, such as strategy games, role-playing games, or even party games, can bring fresh perspectives and innovations that can revitalize the competitive scene.
Unconventional games can also offer a chance for indie developers to break into the mainstream. The rise of indie games has been a significant trend in the gaming industry, with titles like Braid, Minecraft, and Terraria achieving mainstream success. Esports can learn from this trend by embracing indie games and giving small developers a platform to showcase their talents. This can lead to a more diverse range of games being represented in esports, with more opportunities for new creators to make a name for themselves.
Furthermore, unconventional games can bring new opportunities for sponsorship and revenue streams. Traditional esports titles often rely on the same handful of major sponsors, but unconventional games can attract niche sponsors that may not have previously been interested in the esports scene. This can lead to new revenue opportunities and a more sustainable business model for game developers and tournament organizers.
Some examples of unconventional games that could thrive in esports include:
1. Party games like Jackbox Party Pack, which features a collection of smaller, more casual games that are perfect for competitive play.
2. Strategy games like Into the Breach, a turn-based tactics game that requires players to think critically and strategically.
3. Role-playing games like Divinity: Original Sin 2, which features complex storylines and character development.
4. Visual novels like Steins;Gate, a sci-fi thriller that combines storytelling with quick-time events and puzzle-solving.
In conclusion, the world of esports needs more unconventional games to shake things up and bring in new players and spectators. By embracing a wider range of genres and gameplay mechanics, the competitive gaming scene can become more diverse, inclusive, and exciting. It’s time for esports to stop being stuck in a rut and start exploring new frontiers – and for gamers around the world to reap the benefits of this innovation.