I remember the first time I explained esports to my uncle at a family gathering. He looked utterly confused when I mentioned professional gaming, imagining teenagers playing in basements for pocket money. That’s when I realized how misunderstood competitive gaming still is for many people. Esports isn’t just playing video games—it’s a global phenomenon where skilled players compete at the highest level, often for life-changing prize pools and in front of massive audiences, both online and in packed stadiums. Think of it like traditional sports, but instead of physical athleticism, it demands lightning-fast reflexes, strategic thinking, and incredible teamwork.

Take what happened last Friday in the PBA Philippine Cup as a perfect example. MERALCO wrapped up their elimination round with a hat-trick of victories, beating Barangay Ginebra 82-73 in a game so intense that Kings coach Tim Cone got thrown out after two technical fouls. Now, imagine that same level of passion, but in a digital arena. Esports events can get just as heated—coaches and players are fully invested, and every decision matters. I’ve watched tournaments where a single miscalculation cost a team the entire series, and the emotional fallout was no different from what you’d see in basketball or soccer.

When I got into esports a few years back, I was blown away by the sheer scale of it all. Major tournaments like The International for Dota 2 or the League of Legends World Championship offer prize pools in the tens of millions. In 2021, for instance, The International had a prize pool of over $40 million—yes, you read that right. That’s more than what some traditional sports championships offer. And the players? They’re not just casual gamers; they train for up to 12 hours a day, analyzing replays, practicing strategies, and working with coaches and psychologists. I once met a professional Counter-Strike player who told me his team scrimmaged six days a week, with only Sundays off for recovery. It’s a grueling schedule that demands as much dedication as any Olympic athlete’s.

But here’s what I love most about esports: it’s incredibly accessible. You don’t need expensive equipment or a specific body type to enjoy it. I’ve seen kids from rural areas climb the ranks using nothing but a budget laptop and a whole lot of talent. And the community? It’s vibrant, global, and endlessly creative. During the pandemic, I joined online watch parties for Valorant tournaments, and it felt like being at a live sports bar—complete with cheering, friendly banter, and shared heartbreak when our favorite teams lost.

That said, esports isn’t without its controversies. Just like Coach Cone’s ejection in the PBA game, esports has had its fair share of drama—from player disputes to accusations of unfair rules. I still remember the 2019 Overwatch League controversy where a team was penalized for using an unintended game mechanic. Debates raged for weeks on forums and social media, showing how deeply fans care about the integrity of competition.

Some people argue that esports lacks the physicality of traditional sports, but I disagree. While it’s true you won’t see players sprinting across a field, the mental strain is immense. I’ve tried playing competitively myself, and after just a couple of hours, my hands were shaking from adrenaline. The focus required is exhausting, and the pressure to perform can be overwhelming. It’s a different kind of athleticism, one that prioritizes brain over brawn but is just as demanding.

Looking at the broader landscape, esports is only growing. Colleges now offer scholarships for top players, and brands like Red Bull and Nike are pouring money into teams and events. In Southeast Asia alone, the esports market is projected to hit $30 billion by 2025, with millions of fans tuning in for regional leagues. The MERALCO vs. Barangay Ginebra game I mentioned earlier? That kind of local rivalry exists in esports too—think T1 versus Gen.G in League of Legends, where every match feels like a grudge match.

If you’re new to esports, I’d recommend starting with games that are easy to follow, like Rocket League or Fortnite. The rules are straightforward, and the action is non-stop. Personally, I’m a sucker for tactical shooters like Valorant, but I know they can be intimidating for beginners. Whatever you choose, give it a chance. You might just find yourself as hooked as I am, cheering for underdog stories and marveling at displays of skill that defy belief. After all, at its core, esports is about competition—and that’s a language everyone understands.