eSports is becoming one of the fastest growing industries of the digital age. Also known as electronic sports, eSports is competitive video gaming that is generally broadcasted for viewing online, and even on national television (see TBS’ ELeague). Millions of people across the globe are playing and tuning in, but how many of them are placing bets? This is where the emerging market of eSports gambling comes into play.
As fans watch real-time spectator sports, they often place bets for monetary prizes. So what’s the deal with eSports gambling? According to Esportbetting.org, betting on eSports is becoming a popular activity, however, there are still complications regarding its legality.
Let’s take a closer look at eSports gambling, where it’s legal, and what the future has in store for this revolutionized spectator sport.
What is eSports gambling?
Since eSports gaming has become a fully regulated industry, it’s no surprise that players and watchers are interested in placing bets. There are not very many operators offering betting opportunities on eSporting events at the moment, but the competition is likely to increase as companies realize how untapped of a market eSports gambling is. Currently, the major sportsbook sites that offer betting include:
Pinnacle Sports
Bet365 Sport
888 Sport
Paddy Power
Ladbrokes
William Hill
Betway
Betfair
10 Bet
Unikrn
Essentially, you enter a tournament based on the sport of your choosing and place monetary bets on a certain team or player. It’s pretty straightforward, but is this activity even legal? Online gambling isn’t fully regulated in the U.S. yet – only in a few states.
Where is eSports gambling legal?
As of right now, online gambling is only legal in New Jersey, Delaware and Nevada. However, because of sports betting restrictions, betting on eSports is technically prohibited – unless there is a fantasy element. For the U.S. to fully allow eSports betting throughout the country, it would have to allow both online and sports betting.
The future of eSports gambling
Las Vegas locals and visitors alike will be pleased to hear that Allied eSports and eSports Arena have announced, as of April 11, 2017, that a new e-Sports venue is in the works. It will be developed at Luxor Hotel and Casino and is expected to open in early 2018.
Jud Hannigan, CEO of Allied Esports International, said this is a great opportunity for Las Vegas.
“We have very ambitious expansion plans over the next two years, and when we realized that a location at Luxor was possible, we jumped at the opportunity to develop our flagship here,” he said. “Just as Yankee Stadium, Madison Square Garden and Wembley Stadium are considered their sports’ most aspirational venues by players and fans alike, Esports Arena Las Vegas will be the iconic destination in eSports and complement the city’s incredible appeal, attracting video gaming competitors and fans from around the world.”
Do you have any questions regarding eSports gambling? Would you like to discuss the matter further? If so, please contact us or the Scarinci Hollenbeck attorney with whom you work at 201-806-3364.
Guardianships in New Jersey: When a Loved One Can No Longer Manage Personal or Financial Affairs
When a family member can no longer make important decisions for themself, the question is often not whether the family will step in, but whether they have the legal authority to do so. A spouse may manage household finances, or an adult child may arrange medical care and pay bills. Still, informal assistance does not […]
New Jersey’s Revised UHAC Regulations: What Residential Developers Need to Know About Affordable Housing Commitments
New Jersey residential developers with affordable housing obligations should carefully review their existing approvals, development agreements, and proposed deed restrictions in light of the State’s revised UHAC regulations (Uniform Housing Affordability Controls). The regulations, which took effect on November 6, 2025, significantly change the administration and physical requirements for affordable housing units. For developers with […]
“No Comment” Culture: Why Silence Is Often the Riskiest Legal Strategy
A “no comment” response is sometimes the right call when a legal problem arises. As a blanket policy, however, it lets allegations go unanswered, deadlines pass, evidence disappear, and manageable disputes grow into expensive litigation. The businesses that fare best are usually the ones that say little publicly while acting decisively behind the scenes. When […]
Utility-Scale Battery Storage Projects: A Legal Roadmap for Developers, Property Owners and Other Stakeholders
Utility-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) are becoming an increasingly important component of the electric grid throughout New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. As renewable generation expands, electricity demand increases and grid operators seek greater flexibility, battery storage can help balance supply and demand while providing additional capacity and reliability. For developers, battery storage presents […]
Navigating Disputes: Hire a Partnership Dispute Lawyer
A falling out between partners can be disastrous for any business. In many cases, the partnership will not survive. If you are in an unworkable situation with your partners, it may be time to consult a partnership dispute lawyer experienced in handling partnership breakups and dissolutions before the situation deteriorates any further. It is easy […]
Section 363 Sales in Bankruptcy: What Businesses, Lenders, and Buyers Need to Know
When a company enters Chapter 11 bankruptcy, many assume the process will culminate in a lengthy reorganization plan. However, distressed businesses are increasingly being sold through a different mechanism — a sale under Section 363 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. A Section 363 sale allows a company, as a debtor-in-possession in bankruptcy, to sell […]
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Sign up to get the latest from our attorneys!
Explore What Matters Most to You.
Consider subscribing to our Firm Insights mailing list by clicking the button below so you can keep up to date with the firm`s latest articles covering various legal topics.
Stay informed and inspired with the latest updates, insights, and events from Scarinci Hollenbeck. Our resource library provides valuable content across a range of categories to keep you connected and ahead of the curve.
Let`s get in touch!
Sign up to get the latest from the Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC attorneys!
