Understanding Esports Betting Odds: How to Read and Calculate Them

Esports has become a massively popular industry and has led to the rise of esports betting. Understanding esports betting odds is crucial to success in esports betting. In this article, we will delve into the different types of esports betting odds, how to read and calculate them, factors that affect esports betting odds, common esports betting markets, and tips for betting on esports odds.

What are Esports Betting Odds?

Definition of Betting Odds in Esports

Esports betting odds refer to the probability of an event happening and the potential payout a bettor could receive if they win. These odds are determined by bookmakers and are based on factors such as team performance, player form, and tournament format.

Types of Esports Betting Odds

There are three main types of esports betting odds: fractional odds, decimal odds, and American odds. Each type is used in different regions and countries.

How to Read Esports Betting Odds

Fractional Odds

Fractional odds are most commonly used in the UK and Ireland. These odds are displayed in fractions, such as 2/1, and indicate the potential profit a bettor could make for every unit they stake.

Decimal Odds

Decimal odds are used in most countries outside of the UK and Ireland. These odds are displayed in decimals, such as 3.00, and indicate the total payout a bettor could receive, including their original stake.

American Odds

American odds are used in the US and Canada. These odds are displayed in a positive or negative number, such as +200 or -200, and indicate the potential profit a bettor could make for every RM100 they stake (in the case of positive odds) or the amount they need to stake to win RM100 (in the case of negative odds).

How to Calculate Esports Betting Odds

Calculating Payouts Using Fractional Odds

To calculate the potential payout using fractional odds, simply multiply the stake by the fractional odds. For example, a RM10 bet on odds of 2/1 would result in a potential payout of RM20 (RM10 x 2/1).

Calculating Payouts Using Decimal Odds

To calculate the potential payout using decimal odds, simply multiply the stake by the decimal odds. For example, a RM10 bet on odds of 3.00 would result in a potential payout of RM30 (RM10 x 3.00).

Calculating Payouts Using American Odds

To calculate the potential payout using American odds, different calculations are required depending on whether the odds are positive or negative. For positive odds, the potential profit is calculated by multiplying the stake by the odds and then dividing by 100. For example, a RM100 bet on odds of +200 would result in a potential profit of RM200 (RM100 x 200/100). For negative odds, the amount needed to be staked to win RM100 is calculated by dividing 100 by the odds and then multiplying by the stake. For example, a RM200 bet on odds of -200 would result in a potential profit of RM100 (RM200 x 100/-200).

Factors that Affect Esports Betting Odds

Player Form and Team Performance

Player form and team performance are significant factors that affect esports betting odds. If a team or player is on a winning streak or has recently won a tournament, their odds of winning the next event will likely decrease.

Tournaments and Event Formats

Esports tournaments come in various formats, and this affects the odds of esports betting. Single elimination tournaments pressure teams to perform well, leading to unexpected results. In contrast, round-robin style tournaments favor consistency, which benefits teams with more experience and better skills. Tournaments may also have a combination of both formats with group stages followed by playoffs. The format also affects specific markets such as outright betting. Single elimination formats are riskier for outright betting as a single loss can eliminate a team, while round-robin formats are more predictable as teams have multiple chances to accumulate points.

Injuries and Roster Changes

Player injuries and roster changes are important factors that can affect esports betting odds. Just like in traditional sports, injuries and illnesses can affect the performance of esports athletes and their team's overall chances of winning. In addition, changes in a team's roster can also have an impact, as it may take time for the team to adjust to new players or play styles. Bettors should analyze and research how these factors can affect the team's performance and the odds of winning. For instance, if a star player is injured, the team's odds of winning may decrease, while the acquisition of a highly skilled player may increase their odds.

Common Esports Betting Markets

Esports betting markets vary depending on the game being played and the sportsbook offering the odds. However, some common betting markets in esports include:

• Match Winner: This is the most common and straightforward bet in esports betting. It involves predicting the team or player that will win the match.
• Handicap Betting: This type of bet involves giving one team or player a handicap to level the playing field. The handicap can be in the form of maps, rounds, or points, depending on the game.
• Over/Under Betting: This type of bet involves predicting whether the total score of both teams/players will be over or under a predetermined value set by the sportsbook.
• Outright Betting: This type of bet involves predicting the winner of a tournament or league. It is usually a long-term bet that requires a good understanding of the teams and players involved.

Tips for Betting on Esports Odds

Betting on esports can be profitable if done correctly. Here are some tips to increase your chances of success:

Research and Analysis

Esports is a dynamic industry, and teams and players can quickly rise or fall in performance. To make informed bets, you need to keep up with the latest news and trends, including team/player form, event formats, and roster changes.

Understanding Risk Management 

Betting on esports is inherently risky, and you should always be prepared to lose. A good risk management strategy involves only betting what you can afford to lose and avoiding chasing losses.

Bankroll Management

It is crucial to manage your bankroll effectively to maximize your chances of success. This involves setting a budget for betting, sticking to it, and avoiding making impulsive bets.

Staying Up-to-Date with Esports News and Trends 

As mentioned earlier, esports is a dynamic industry that changes rapidly. To stay ahead of the curve, you should keep up with the latest news, trends, and game updates to make informed betting decisions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding esports betting odds is crucial to making informed bets in the growing esports betting industry. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced bettor, it is essential to understand the different types of odds, how to read and calculate them, and the factors that affect them. By following the tips outlined above and practicing responsible gambling, you can increase your chances of success in esports betting.