Industry Predictions for 2025
As we look ahead to 2025, the esports industry is poised to reach new heights after a year of memorable moments in 2024. Various prominent industry stakeholders have shared their predictions on what the upcoming year holds for esports. From the development of different esports scenes to the challenges the industry will face, here’s a glimpse of what to expect in 2025.
Insights from Industry Leaders
Steve Arhancet, CEO, Team Liquid: “I think that in 2025, esports will solidify itself as a cultural force rather than a fleeting trend. The past few years have forced companies to mature and evolve, and the separation between companies that have built real businesses and those who chase empty metrics will grow even more significant.”
“Because of this, we will see more consolidation, mergers and acquisitions.”
Alban Dechelotte, CEO, G2 Esports: “More consolidation of teams into global organisations capable of competing in major games, major regions and global fandoms.”
Nicolas Maurer, Co-Founder and CEO, Team Vitality: “I’d probably expect a continuation of the trends we’re seeing now, with even more established positions and a growing gap between the industry leaders and the rest of the world.”
“It’s becoming increasingly difficult to operate in this industry if you’re not a top team. Even for the top teams, there are a lot of challenges…”
“That said, I think we’ll also see more top teams reaching a point where they can say they’re more or less sustainable.”
“Whether they’ll be profitable, and by what margin, is still unclear, but I’d say this ongoing transition we have all experienced over the last three years will probably reach a point where the top teams are in a more comfortable position.”
Daniel Finkler, CEO, BIG: “In 2025, esports will continue its global expansion, with classic esports and mobile gaming solidifying its dominance.”
“AI and data analytics will revolutionise key areas like marketing, coaching, strategy and fan engagement, while teams increasingly adopt diversified business models to ensure financial sustainability.”
Mobile Esports Growth
Faisal Binhomran, Chief Product Officer, Esports World Cup Foundation: “Mobile will be the biggest growth area in esports, showing huge potential for the future. It’s easy to see why—it’s accessible, powered by fast-growing networks and supported by the ever-improving performance of handheld devices…”
“We saw the huge popularity of events like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, PUBG Mobile, FreeFire and others at the Esports World Cup this year, and look forward to even more growth in the mobile space.”
Organisational Targets for 2025
At the start of the year, esports companies are setting new Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for 2025. Here are some of the targets they aim to achieve:
Targets for Various Organisations
Daniel Finkler, CEO, BIG: To remain Germany’s leading esports organisation globally by fostering local talent to represent the country across various titles. Expanding its digital and physical infrastructure, including BIG Bootcamp and its UNLTD merchandise operations in Turkey.
Robbie Douek, CEO, BLAST: “Ultimately, 2025 is about growth with intention — expanding our reach, refining our operations and setting the standard for what global esports can achieve.”
Monica Dinsmore, Senior Director of Esports and Ventures Brand, Electronic Arts: To deliver “unforgettable experiences” for its players – whether in the game, on stream, on the main stage or in the stands.
Areas for Improvement in 2025
As the industry progresses, there are certain areas that need attention and improvement for esports to continue thriving. Here are some insights on what the industry needs to work on in 2025:
Focus Areas for the Industry
Steve Arhancet, CEO, Team Liquid: “Monetisation models remain the Achilles’ heel of esports. We need to find that next gear beyond just ad spend and sponsorships, and create direct fan monetisation systems that feel natural, rewarding and equitable”
“This would go hand-in-hand with improved economics between developers and/or tournament organisers and teams.”
Daniel Finkler, CEO, BIG: “The industry must address financial stability through stronger collaboration among publishers, teams and tournament organisers. A fair revenue-sharing model is essential for creating a balanced ecosystem that supports all stakeholders while ensuring long-term growth…”
“My opinion is that publishers don’t have the expertise themselves to create healthy ecosystems themselves. It’s all about listening to feedback from tournament organisers, clubs and fans to establish a healthy and sustainable environment.”
Alban Dechelotte, CEO, G2 Esports: “Better synergy between publishers and teams, with more publishers rethinking their revenue sharing model like we’re seeing from Riot Games and Ubisoft.”
Evolving Esports Titles in 2025
With new developments and enhancements on the horizon, certain esports titles are expected to undergo significant growth in 2025. Here’s a look at the titles predicted to lead in development:
Expectations for Esports Titles in 2025
Nicolas Maurer, Co-Founder and CEO, Team Vitality: “I think VALORANT will undergo the most development in 2025. I think Riot has huge ambitions for the upcoming Champions, as it will be the fifth edition, and I think there are high ambitions to make it quite special.”
Akshat Rathee, Co-founder and Managing Director, NODWIN Gaming: “VALORANT is poised for significant growth in 2025, with expanding franchised leagues, enhanced community engagement and increasing investments from brands and media companies.
Its appeal as a team-based, spectator-friendly title makes it a prime candidate for deeper global integration and professionalisation.”
Animesh ‘8Bit Thug’ Agarwal, Co-Founder, S8UL: “In 2025, titles like VALORANT, BGMI, and other mobile-first titles will see significant growth. VALORANT will continue its upward trajectory, with a growing global fan base and improvements in competitive formats.”
“BGMI will remain a dominant force in mobile esports, strengthening India’s esports ecosystem.”