I want to preface this project by clarifying that much of my experience stems from World of Warcraft (WoW) raiding.  I have played some of the other games that are typically associated with eSports; however, I am most familiar with WoW.  I understand that WoW content is not always entirely equatable with other, larger eSports games but I feel as though it makes a good jumping point to help explain my position towards eSports in general.

 

Both World of Warcraft and other eSports games feature intense, competitive group play.  This sort of play - especially at high skills levels - is something that requires focus, determination, coordination, and a wealth of knowledge of various enemies one might encounter.

 

Similarly, both involve gameplay styles that can be enjoyed by multiple levels of players.  Much like a junior soccer league can still enjoy the game without worrying about their ability to compete in the World Cup, so too can players of all skills enjoy these games without necessarily worrying about being the best of the best.  The option is always there, but it's never a requirement.

 

The accessibility of such games is what allows casual gamers to enjoy high-end eSports competitions, and it's also what makes each game in the eSports genre relatively familiar to players of other eSports games.