Esports and Traditional Sport: Is It the Same?

In this chapter, we look deeper into the nuanced and often debated relationship between esports and traditional sports. Through a series of comparisons and contrasts, the chapter aims to help to understand how esports align with and differ from traditional sports. We explore the arguments surrounding the recognition of esports as a sport, including its potential inclusion in the Olympics. The chapter begins by comparing definitions, using motorsports, athletics, and football examples to draw parallels and distinctions in market structure and stakeholder roles. We continue with a detailed analysis of the similarities between esports and traditional sports, highlighting skills, effort, and professional dedication. Subsequently, we focus on the differences, emphasising unique characteristics of esports such as accessibility, dependency on Game IP owners, and extended monetisation opportunities. The chapter concludes by engaging with the debate on whether esports should be recognised as a sport by international bodies, offering insights into the complexities and potential implications of such recognition. Key Takeaways: