Esport and Society: An Introduction

Provides the tools to understand the impact, challenges, and opportunities of the esports industry

Esports has transformed from a niche hobby into a global industry, influencing entertainment, economics, and social structures. Yet it remains a topic of intense debate. Critics argue that competitive gaming promotes unhealthy behaviors, fosters addiction, and fails to cultivate essential life skills. On the other hand, supporters see esports as a rapidly growing sector that provides career opportunities, fosters inclusivity, and redefines modern sports culture.

Esports and Society: An Introduction provides a balanced and research-backed examination of this phenomenon, unpacking both the benefits and concerns surrounding esports. In this student-friendly textbook, author Cornel Nesseler moves beyond common misconceptions to provide a nuanced analysis of the industry's real-world impact. Concise chapters explore the intersection of competitive and non-competitive gaming and broader societal trends while offering real-world insights into esports career opportunities, connections to traditional sports, and the games at the core of the industry. Equipping readers with the critical tools to assess the role of an industry that continues to redefine modern sports and digital culture, Esports and Society: An Introduction: