Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the thrilling world of esports? 2024 is shaping up to be an incredible year for competitive gaming, with established titles continuing to dominate and exciting new contenders emerging. So, grab your snacks, settle in, and let's explore the top 10 esports games you absolutely need to watch this year!

1. League of Legends (LoL)

League of Legends (LoL), developed by Riot Games, remains a titan in the esports arena. Its blend of strategic depth, engaging characters, and constant updates keeps it fresh and exciting for both players and viewers. The League of Legends World Championship, often referred to as Worlds, is one of the most-watched esports events globally, drawing in millions of viewers. What makes LoL so compelling is its intricate gameplay. Two teams of five players battle it out on a map with the goal of destroying the opposing team's Nexus. Each player controls a unique champion with distinct abilities and roles, requiring a high level of teamwork, communication, and individual skill. The game's meta evolves constantly, with new champions, items, and strategies being introduced regularly, ensuring that no two matches are ever quite the same. This dynamic environment keeps both players and viewers engaged, as they constantly need to adapt to the latest trends and strategies. The professional scene is highly organized, with leagues and tournaments happening year-round in various regions around the world. Teams like T1, G2 Esports, and Edward Gaming have become household names, and their matches are always a must-watch. The drama, the rivalries, and the sheer skill on display make League of Legends a perennial favorite in the esports world. For newcomers, LoL can seem daunting due to its complexity, but don't let that scare you away! There are plenty of resources available to help you learn the basics, and once you get the hang of it, you'll find yourself drawn into its strategic depth and captivating gameplay. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a curious newcomer, League of Legends is an esports title that deserves your attention in 2024.

2. Counter-Strike 2 (CS2)

Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), the successor to the legendary Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), has taken the esports world by storm. This tactical first-person shooter (FPS) pits two teams against each other: Terrorists and Counter-Terrorists. The goal? For the Terrorists, it's to plant a bomb or eliminate the opposing team; for the Counter-Terrorists, it's to prevent the bomb from detonating or eliminate the Terrorists. What sets CS2 apart is its emphasis on teamwork, communication, and precise aim. Players need to coordinate their movements, share information about enemy positions, and execute strategies flawlessly to succeed. The game's economy system, where players earn money each round to purchase weapons and equipment, adds another layer of strategic depth. Mastering weapon recoil patterns is crucial for success in CS2. Each weapon has its unique recoil pattern, and players need to learn how to control it to land accurate shots. This requires hours of practice and dedication, but the reward is the ability to consistently win gunfights and outplay opponents. The professional CS2 scene is highly competitive, with tournaments like the Majors attracting huge audiences. Teams like Natus Vincere (Na'Vi), Team Vitality, and FaZe Clan are constantly battling for supremacy, and their matches are always filled with intense moments and nail-biting finishes. CS2's accessibility and straightforward gameplay make it easy to pick up and play, but its high skill ceiling means that there's always room for improvement. Whether you're a casual player or a hardcore competitive gamer, CS2 offers something for everyone. The updated graphics, refined mechanics, and continued support from Valve ensure that CS2 will remain a top esports title for years to come. So, gear up, grab your favorite weapon, and get ready to experience the thrill of Counter-Strike 2!

3. Dota 2

Dota 2, another MOBA giant developed by Valve Corporation, commands a massive following in the esports world. Known for its complexity and strategic depth, Dota 2 challenges players to master a vast roster of heroes, each with unique abilities and roles. Two teams of five clash on a map, aiming to destroy the opposing team's Ancient. What makes Dota 2 so captivating is its intricate mechanics. Players must manage resources, control the map, and coordinate their actions to gain an advantage. The game's item system allows for a wide range of builds and strategies, adding even more layers of complexity. The International, Dota 2's annual world championship tournament, is renowned for its massive prize pool, often exceeding $40 million. This makes it the most lucrative esports event in the world, attracting top teams from around the globe. Teams like Team Spirit, PSG.LGD, and OG have etched their names into Dota 2 history with their incredible performances at The International. Dota 2's steep learning curve can be intimidating for new players. However, the game's depth and strategic possibilities make it incredibly rewarding to master. There are countless guides, tutorials, and resources available to help you learn the basics, and once you start to understand the game's nuances, you'll find yourself hooked. The professional scene is constantly evolving, with new strategies and heroes emerging regularly. This keeps the game fresh and exciting for both players and viewers. Whether you're a seasoned MOBA veteran or a curious newcomer, Dota 2 is an esports title that deserves your attention. The high stakes, intense competition, and strategic depth make it a truly unique and captivating experience.

4. Valorant

Valorant, Riot Games' tactical first-person shooter, has quickly risen to prominence in the esports scene. Combining elements of Counter-Strike and Overwatch, Valorant features agents with unique abilities that add a layer of strategic depth to the classic FPS formula. Two teams of five compete to plant or defuse a spike (bomb), or eliminate the opposing team. What makes Valorant stand out is its focus on teamwork, communication, and precise aim. Players need to coordinate their abilities, share information about enemy positions, and execute strategies flawlessly to succeed. The game's agent system adds another layer of complexity, as each agent has unique abilities that can be used to control the map, disrupt the enemy team, or provide support to teammates. The Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) is Riot Games' official esports circuit for Valorant, featuring tournaments around the world. Teams like Sentinels, Acend, and OpTic Gaming have become household names in the Valorant community, and their matches are always a must-watch. Valorant's accessibility and strategic depth make it appealing to both casual and competitive players. The game's intuitive controls and clear visual design make it easy to pick up and play, while its agent system and strategic possibilities offer a high skill ceiling for those who want to master the game. The constant updates and new content from Riot Games ensure that Valorant remains fresh and exciting. New agents, maps, and game modes are regularly added to the game, keeping the meta evolving and preventing the game from becoming stale. Whether you're a seasoned FPS veteran or a curious newcomer, Valorant is an esports title that deserves your attention. The fast-paced action, strategic depth, and exciting agent system make it a truly unique and captivating experience.

5. Overwatch 2

Overwatch 2, Blizzard Entertainment's team-based hero shooter, continues to be a major player in the esports world. Building upon the foundation of the original Overwatch, Overwatch 2 features updated graphics, new heroes, and a refined gameplay experience. Two teams of five compete to complete objectives, such as capturing points or escorting payloads. What makes Overwatch 2 so appealing is its diverse cast of heroes, each with unique abilities and playstyles. Players can choose from a variety of roles, including tanks, damage dealers, and supports, and must work together to coordinate their abilities and strategies. The Overwatch League (OWL) is Blizzard Entertainment's official esports league for Overwatch 2, featuring teams from around the world. The league is known for its high production value, professional players, and passionate fan base. Teams like San Francisco Shock, Shanghai Dragons, and Los Angeles Gladiators have dominated the OWL, and their matches are always a spectacle to watch. Overwatch 2's accessibility and strategic depth make it appealing to a wide range of players. The game's colorful graphics and engaging characters make it easy to pick up and play, while its team-based gameplay and strategic possibilities offer a high skill ceiling for those who want to master the game. The constant updates and new content from Blizzard Entertainment ensure that Overwatch 2 remains fresh and exciting. New heroes, maps, and game modes are regularly added to the game, keeping the meta evolving and preventing the game from becoming stale. Whether you're a seasoned Overwatch veteran or a curious newcomer, Overwatch 2 is an esports title that deserves your attention. The fast-paced action, strategic depth, and diverse cast of heroes make it a truly unique and captivating experience.

6. Rainbow Six Siege

Rainbow Six Siege, Ubisoft's tactical first-person shooter, has carved out a unique niche in the esports scene. Featuring asymmetrical gameplay, where one team defends a location while the other attacks, Rainbow Six Siege emphasizes teamwork, communication, and strategic planning. What sets Rainbow Six Siege apart is its destructible environments. Players can breach walls, create new lines of sight, and use the environment to their advantage. This adds a layer of strategic depth to the game, as players must constantly adapt to the changing environment. The Rainbow Six Pro League is Ubisoft's official esports league for Rainbow Six Siege, featuring teams from around the world. The league is known for its intense matches, strategic gameplay, and passionate fan base. Teams like Team Empire, G2 Esports, and Ninjas in Pyjamas have dominated the Pro League, and their matches are always a must-watch. Rainbow Six Siege's tactical gameplay and destructible environments make it appealing to players who enjoy strategic and methodical gameplay. The game's steep learning curve can be intimidating for new players, but the reward is a deeply satisfying and strategic experience. The constant updates and new content from Ubisoft ensure that Rainbow Six Siege remains fresh and exciting. New operators, maps, and gadgets are regularly added to the game, keeping the meta evolving and preventing the game from becoming stale. Whether you're a seasoned tactical shooter veteran or a curious newcomer, Rainbow Six Siege is an esports title that deserves your attention. The strategic gameplay, destructible environments, and intense matches make it a truly unique and captivating experience.

7. Rocket League

Rocket League, Psyonix's vehicular soccer game, is a unique and exhilarating esports title that combines the thrill of soccer with the excitement of driving. Two teams of players control rocket-powered cars and must work together to score goals by hitting a giant ball into the opposing team's net. What makes Rocket League so appealing is its simple yet addictive gameplay. The controls are easy to learn, but mastering the game's mechanics takes time and practice. Players must learn how to control their cars, boost, jump, and flip to effectively hit the ball and score goals. The Rocket League Championship Series (RLCS) is Psyonix's official esports league for Rocket League, featuring teams from around the world. The league is known for its high-flying aerial plays, fast-paced action, and passionate fan base. Teams like Team BDS, G2 Esports, and NRG Esports have dominated the RLCS, and their matches are always a spectacle to watch. Rocket League's accessibility and exciting gameplay make it appealing to a wide range of players. The game's simple controls and easy-to-understand objective make it easy to pick up and play, while its high skill ceiling offers plenty of room for improvement. The constant updates and new content from Psyonix ensure that Rocket League remains fresh and exciting. New cars, arenas, and game modes are regularly added to the game, keeping the meta evolving and preventing the game from becoming stale. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a curious newcomer, Rocket League is an esports title that deserves your attention. The fast-paced action, high-flying aerial plays, and simple yet addictive gameplay make it a truly unique and captivating experience.

8. StarCraft II

StarCraft II, Blizzard Entertainment's real-time strategy (RTS) game, is a classic esports title that continues to be popular among hardcore gamers. Players control one of three races (Terran, Zerg, or Protoss) and must build bases, gather resources, and train armies to defeat their opponents. What makes StarCraft II so appealing is its strategic depth and fast-paced action. Players must make quick decisions, manage their resources effectively, and adapt to their opponent's strategies. The game requires a high level of skill and knowledge, making it a challenging but rewarding experience. The StarCraft II World Championship Series (WCS) is Blizzard Entertainment's official esports league for StarCraft II, featuring players from around the world. The league is known for its intense matches, strategic gameplay, and passionate fan base. Players like Lee "Rogue" Byung Ryul, Cho "Maru" Seong Ju and Park "Dark" Ryung Woo have dominated the WCS, and their matches are always a must-watch. StarCraft II's strategic depth and fast-paced action make it appealing to players who enjoy challenging and strategic gameplay. The game's steep learning curve can be intimidating for new players, but the reward is a deeply satisfying and strategic experience. The constant updates and new content from Blizzard Entertainment ensure that StarCraft II remains fresh and exciting. New units, maps, and balance changes are regularly added to the game, keeping the meta evolving and preventing the game from becoming stale. Whether you're a seasoned RTS veteran or a curious newcomer, StarCraft II is an esports title that deserves your attention. The strategic gameplay, fast-paced action, and intense matches make it a truly unique and captivating experience.

9. Apex Legends

Apex Legends, Respawn Entertainment's battle royale game, has quickly become one of the most popular esports titles in the world. Featuring a unique blend of fast-paced action, strategic gameplay, and hero-based abilities, Apex Legends challenges players to survive and outwit their opponents in a large-scale battle royale arena. What makes Apex Legends so appealing is its diverse cast of legends, each with unique abilities and playstyles. Players can choose from a variety of legends, and must work together to coordinate their abilities and strategies. The Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS) is Respawn Entertainment's official esports league for Apex Legends, featuring teams from around the world. The league is known for its intense matches, strategic gameplay, and passionate fan base. Teams like TSM, DarkZero Esports, and Alliance have dominated the ALGS, and their matches are always a must-watch. Apex Legends' accessibility and exciting gameplay make it appealing to a wide range of players. The game's intuitive controls and clear visual design make it easy to pick up and play, while its hero-based abilities and strategic possibilities offer a high skill ceiling for those who want to master the game. The constant updates and new content from Respawn Entertainment ensure that Apex Legends remains fresh and exciting. New legends, weapons, and maps are regularly added to the game, keeping the meta evolving and preventing the game from becoming stale. Whether you're a seasoned battle royale veteran or a curious newcomer, Apex Legends is an esports title that deserves your attention. The fast-paced action, strategic gameplay, and hero-based abilities make it a truly unique and captivating experience.

10. Call of Duty

Call of Duty, Activision's first-person shooter franchise, has a long and storied history in the esports world. Featuring fast-paced action, intense gunfights, and a variety of game modes, Call of Duty challenges players to master their skills and compete against the best in the world. What makes Call of Duty so appealing is its accessible gameplay and wide appeal. The game's intuitive controls and clear visual design make it easy to pick up and play, while its variety of game modes ensures that there's something for everyone. The Call of Duty League (CDL) is Activision's official esports league for Call of Duty, featuring teams from around the world. The league is known for its intense matches, strategic gameplay, and passionate fan base. Teams like Atlanta FaZe, Los Angeles Thieves and New York Subliners have dominated the CDL and their matches are always a must-watch. Call of Duty’s straightforward gameplay and broad appeal make it attractive to a wide array of gamers. The game’s easy-to-grasp controls and user-friendly design facilitate quick engagement, while the diverse range of game modes guarantees there’s something to suit every preference. Whether you're a seasoned FPS veteran or a curious newcomer, Call of Duty is an esports title that deserves your attention. The fast-paced action, intense gunfights, and variety of game modes make it a truly unique and captivating experience.

So there you have it, folks! My top 10 esports games to watch in 2024. With so many exciting titles and tournaments on the horizon, it's going to be an incredible year for esports fans. Be sure to tune in and cheer on your favorite teams and players! Which games are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments below!