SuperData – eSports to surpass $1.9 billion revenues by 2018

Media and games research and intelligence provider SuperData has speculated that the global eSports market will surpass $1.9 billion in revenues by 2018.

A SuperData report forecasts that eSports growth will be driven by further promotion of events by major broadcast networks combined with popular uptake of new competitive games content and tournament formats.

At present SuperData estimates that eSports generates $748 million in worldwide revenues. Asia leads eSports market revenues with $331 million, followed by North America’s $224 million.

SuperData expects Europe to grow its estimated $172 million revenues substantially in the coming years as the continent hosts more competitive tournaments.

At present the total global audience of eSports events is estimated at 188 million viewers

In its research, SuperData noted that it did not calculate game revenues of popular titles such as StarCraft 2 or League of Legends. The research provider has concentrated its data on eSports competitive events which generate revenues through tickets sales, broadcasts, marketing, merchandise, wagering and team/pro sponsorships.

The research notes that the majority of eSports revenues (77%) are generated through brand sponsorships as advertisers’ line-up to partner with pro teams.

“By year’s end, sponsorships of tournaments, players, and esports-related sites will exceed $578 million, just 28 percent less than this year’s NBA sponsorship total,” reads the SuperData report.