iGaming and e-Gaming: What’s the difference?

The ways you can stay entertained while at home or even during your lunch breaks have expanded massively. Some of the most popular forms of entertainment are iGaming and e-Gaming.

As someone new to the industry, you may get confused by the different options, which is why we’ve compiled all the useful information by differentiating the two in one handy guide.

Understanding the difference

Before we examine both in more detail and consider how they impact the entertainment industry, you must understand what the terms iGaming and eGaming refer to.

This covers all types of online games like Call of Duty, League of Legends or Dota 2.

What makes them so different?

Both refer to online gaming but in different forms. iGaming is basically a form of entertainment. It’s all about an enjoyable and interactive gaming experience. You can choose to play it alone or with friends.

While iGaming is simply a means of escape from the daily routine while providing relaxation, eSports, on the other hand, refers to electronic sports that cover competitive gameplay. While the participants do play games online, it’s more serious than simply playing for enjoyment. The world of eSports is highly competitive, as teams and individuals spend a lot of time dedicated to perfecting their skills and their craft.

So iGaming is simply playing games casually, while eSports is more focused on competition, with large tournaments and prizes up for grabs.

More differences with numbers

A closer look at the esports and gaming industries reveals that both generate income on their own scale. Both are rapidly growing and have established significant impact and value.

Most of eSports' revenue comes from sponsorship and advertising. Media rights and merchandise also contribute to income. It’s quite popular, with millions of fans eagerly watching live events and online streams. From the big leagues and championships to the small, casual games between different teams, eSports draws in everyone.

With iGaming, revenue comes from various verticals, including online casino games, sports betting, and poker game verticals. The online sports betting segment is still relatively new, and the expectations for its growth in the years to come are high, especially considering that more and more countries and states are exploring the benefits of opening their virtual doors to online sports betting.

Participation

One of the big differences between iGaming and eSports is the levels of participation. With eSports, only the top players with the best skills, game strategies, and knowledge can join a team and participate in the pro leagues. Of course, there are more casual competitions between fans of the different games, but the championships with the big prizes are exclusively for players who have the expertise to bring home the trophy.

For instance, in League of Legends, you get teams like T1, which has become the most profitable team. The team is made up of the most experienced players, and they participate in gaming actively, receiving the best training and professional assistance. It becomes a profession instead of simply a hobby.

There are some forms of competitive gaming in iGaming, with online poker tournaments stealing the show in this department. However, most competitions and games are short and sweet, and you can win at random with games of chance, like online slots.

How do eSports and iGaming connect?

There are various ways that you see the worlds of iGaming and eSports collide. Here are a couple of ways we see them connect:

While iGaming and esports are two completely different things, there are many ways they share similarities. Their connection allows for a more immersive and engaging online experience, with the biggest thrill for fans being to watch competitive gaming and possibly take home their own share of wins thanks to online betting provided by the iGaming industry.

The future of eSports

The future of esports is looking even brighter, with a number of trends and developments you can keep an eye on. For one, esports viewership continues to rise as more people opt to watch online streams and live events. This, in turn, grabs the attention of more sponsors and advertisers, boosting industry revenue.

Not to mention all the immersive technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), it becomes even more engaging for those who take part in it and those who simply follow it. Other focus points that will expand their reach and popularity include the number of games and esports competitions expected to continue expanding in the years to come. You can even expect a range of new genres and titles.

With more games and championships, we can expect an increase in the audience and watch as esports continues growing and gaining worldwide popularity.

Many in the industry are rooting for and even excited about the collaboration between esports and traditional sports. Some of the integrations include cross-promotions, shared events, and more.

The future of iGaming

The iGaming industry is not far behind, with tons of trends and advancements continuously shaping it. Technological advancements like artificial intelligence and machine learning can only enhance the user experience while simultaneously making the operations even more effective. Not to mention the added benefits of additional security measures and a more personalised gaming experience.

With the use of AI, casinos have the opportunity to give every player that VIP feeling by letting them enjoy recommendations and special offers catering to their specific betting needs. Another big focal point here is the rise of crypto casinos, which is quickly changing the world of online gambling, providing a faster, more secure and decentralised gaming opportunity.

Combine that with the growth in mobile gaming, which continues to surprise. Today, many people are interested in playing in a way that is convenient to them, including betting on the go via Android or iOS devices.

Again, there is a lot of growth expected, especially in regions where access to digital technology and mobile devices is increasing. This includes regions like Africa, which now have one of the fastest-growing markets in the world.

The future also includes more social and interactive gaming options where you can play with or against friends.  Both industries have a lot to look forward to, including increased game opportunities and growth in participants.

Despite all the similarities, both industries stand-alone, complementing one another rather than overtaking one another.