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Over $1.72 billion in prize money has been awarded to over 131,000 players across 52,451 tournaments in 2024.
The esports scene has reached unprecedented heights in 2024, with a recent report by gaming data experts Soulbound.gg showing a staggering $1.72 billion in prize money awarded to over 131,000 players across 52,451 tournaments.
The study highlights the extraordinary growth and reach of esports, now projected to captivate over 640 million global viewers by 2025.
With prize money matching traditional sports leagues, esports has cemented itself as a multi-billion-dollar entertainment powerhouse. Let’s dive into the top esports games and the countries leading this global phenomenon.
Dota 2 leads the way as the highest-paying Esports tournament of 2024
Topping the prize pool charts are popular titles like Dota 2, Fortnite, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), League of Legends, and Arena of Valor.
Together, these games make up over half of the total prize earnings, with $896.8 million awarded.
In particular, Dota 2 stands out, distributing a whopping $349.7 million, largely driven by its iconic tournament, 'The International', which boasts some of the highest payouts in the esports world.
The Esports powerhouse nations of 2024
In terms of country earnings, China takes the lead with $289.1 million, heavily supported by its Dota 2 scene.
The United States and South Korea follow closely with $268.3 million and $141.4 million, respectively.
Each country has carved out its unique position in the esports landscape, from China’s dominance in Dota 2 to the U.S.’s Fortnite stronghold, and South Korea’s affinity for League of Legends.
The comprehensive study by Soulbound.gg analysed a variety of data sources, including Esports Earnings and Statista, ranking games and countries by a weighted average of prize money, player earnings, and regional influence.
Top 10 Esports Games by Prize Money in 2024
1. Dota 2 – $349.7 million
2. Fortnite – $182.1 million
3. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive – $162.4 million
4. League of Legends – $109.9 million
5. Arena of Valor – $92.8 million
6. PUBG Mobile – $83.6 million
7. PUBG – $61.8 million
8. Rainbow Six Siege – $46.1 million
9. StarCraft II – $41.4 million
10. Rocket League – $38.4 million