Is Ireland’s eSports Industry Progressing?

In recent times, Ireland has sought to advance its eSports industry. However, despite the global popularity of competitive gaming, the country has yet to reap the financial rewards of the sector’s lucrative nature. So, let’s take a look at how quickly eSports is developing within Ireland.

Is eSports in Ireland “Stuck in the Mud”?

In a report at Wilson Hartnell, Ireland’s number-three ranked FIFA gamer, Eric Finn, declared that he felt that the eSports industry within the country was “stuck in the mud”. Fundamentally, he believed this to be the case because of the sector’s lack of backing from an established association. In turn, this raises an interesting question as to whether Ireland is, in 2020, nearing a stage where its eSports potential can be fully unlocked.

In relation to video game revenue, Ireland isn’t one of the top 20 countries. That said, according to Statista its revenue is projected to reach £82 million in 2020. However, despite that, it appears that the last few years have seen an upturn in local Irish businesses seeing the vast opportunities related to competitive gaming. More specifically, the previous months have been the catalyst for a broadened appreciation for the profitability of competitive gaming. Trev Keane, the head of eSports and sports at 7F, states that throughout 2020 he has received numerous approaches from local businesses, which is a contrast from other years.

Moreover, although Ireland may not yet have received the same financial backing as other countries, it’s a testament to their steady growth that their role within eSports is on the rise. This is showcased through Croke Park’s hosting of numerous events, such as the eStars Fortnite competition.

What Does the Future Hold?

While, on the face of it, it appears that, from a financial standpoint, Finn is somewhat correct with his comments, things could soon change in the second-largest country of the British Isles. There’s a growing belief that, given the quality of Irish FIFA players, the creation of a local team could provide Ireland with a platform to compete in global events. Moreover, by exploring this possibility, it could also prove beneficial to the League of Ireland. Due to the lucrative nature of competitive gaming, it may ensure alternate avenues in which to develop ancillary digital revenues.

Furthermore, the growing viewership figures are also an indication that eSports in Ireland are heading in a positive direction. With 22 per cent of Irish adults watching or participating in competitive video games, it demonstrates the attractive nature of titles such as Fortnight and League of League.

In turn, the emergence of eSports betting markets can help to play a pivotal role in taking competitive gaming in Ireland to new, unprecedented heights because of the country’s primary viewership demographic. Platforms such as Winners.bet provide a whole host of eSports odds across a wide array of different titles and events, including Fortnite-centred tournaments, which has proven itself to be a popular title in Ireland.

An Encouraging Future, but Patience is Required

Ultimately, while there are no guarantees as to how significantly the eSports industry will grow in Ireland, the sector’s ever-growing popularity indicates that future progress is likely. While the market may have been stagnating in years gone by, the hosting of events suggests that there is a long-term future for Irish competitive gaming, but it requires time.