What Are The Most Popular Esports Titles to Bet on in Asia?

Welcome to the thrilling world of esports betting in South Africa — a region where the love for competitive gaming runs deep and the excitement of wagering on digital battles continues to grow. Esports here isn’t just entertainment; it’s a cultural phenomenon blending skill, teamwork, and opportunity. Whether you’re a passionate gamer or a new bettor eager to explore South Africa’s vibrant esports scene, you’ll find plenty of exciting titles and regulated platforms to engage with. Start your journey today by exploring top-rated sites recommended by EsportsRanker.

Esports Betting in South Africa: A Growing Powerhouse

South Africa is rapidly becoming a significant player in the global esports industry. From the burgeoning professional gaming culture to the increasing number of tournaments and the mobile esports boom, the region offers unmatched diversity and energy. South African players are increasingly engaging with this exciting digital landscape.

Betting platforms catering to South African players provide extensive markets, competitive odds, and localised support for games that dominate the regional landscape. Combined with cutting-edge technology and secure payment systems, South African bettors enjoy both excitement and reliability in their wagering experience.

Top Esports Games to Bet On in South Africa

The most exciting esports titles that dominate betting markets in South Africa often mirror global gaming preferences — ranging from PC powerhouses to mobile sensations. Below are the most popular games that attract millions of viewers and bettors every year.

1. Dota 2 – The Strategy Titan

Dota 2 remains one of the most bet-on esports titles globally, and South Africa is no exception. Known for its deep strategic gameplay and massive international tournaments like The International (TI), it offers a variety of betting markets, from match winners and first blood to total kills and map outcomes.
South African bettors follow powerhouse teams, making Dota 2 an enduring favorite in the region’s betting scene.

2. PUBG Mobile – The Mobile Battle Royale King

In South Africa, mobile gaming is incredibly popular, and PUBG Mobile is a major player. The game’s massive popularity has made it a betting phenomenon.
Fans place wagers on individual and team performances, total kills, or overall tournament winners. With high-stakes competitions like the PUBG Mobile Super League (PMSL), this title continues to dominate the esports betting market.

3. League of Legends – The Regional Classic

Few esports have shaped Asia’s competitive gaming culture like League of Legends (LoL). Its massive following in China and South Korea has turned LoL betting into a multi-million-dollar market.
Major leagues such as the LPL (China) and LCK (Korea) attract huge betting activity on match outcomes, map handicaps, and special props like first tower or first Baron. Consistency, skill, and star players make LoL one of the most reliable esports for bettors across the continent.

4. Valorant – The Rising FPS Contender

Riot Games’ Valorant has quickly carved out its place among Asia’s most popular esports to bet on. Its blend of tactical shooting and hero-based abilities appeals strongly to players in Japan, the Philippines, and South Korea.
The VCT Pacific League has become a hotbed for betting enthusiasts, offering opportunities to wager on round outcomes, map victories, and player stats.

5. Mobile Legends: Bang Bang – Southeast Asia’s Fan Favorite

In countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) is nothing short of a cultural icon. Its accessibility and mobile-friendly design make it one of the most bet-on esports in Southeast Asia.
Bettors follow major tournaments like the M-Series World Championship and Mobile Legends Professional League (MPL), placing bets on champions, match outcomes, and hero drafts.

6. Counter-Strike 2 – The Global Shooter with an Asian Edge

While CS2 (formerly CS:GO) dominates Western markets, its presence in Asia is steadily expanding — particularly in regions like China and Singapore.
Asian bettors enjoy wagering on team matchups, pistol round winners, and map totals, especially during international events where regional teams compete against global giants.

Esports Betting Regulations in Asia

The legal landscape for esports betting in Asia varies greatly by country, reflecting the region’s cultural and regulatory diversity.

• South Korea and Japan maintain strict gambling laws but allow regulated esports tournaments with limited betting through approved operators.
• The Philippines has emerged as a leading hub for licensed online betting, hosting offshore platforms regulated by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).
• India and Thailand sit in grey areas — while general gambling restrictions exist, esports betting often operates through international sites catering to local users.
• Singapore and Malaysia restrict most forms of betting but permit limited online wagering through government-approved channels.
• Macau and Hong Kong remain special administrative zones with clearer frameworks for regulated esports-related events and betting activities.

Across Asia, a trend toward responsible and regulated esports wagering is emerging, aiming to balance innovation with player protection. Bettors are encouraged to use only licensed platforms and stay aware of local gambling laws before placing real-money bets.

Conclusion

Esports betting in Asia continues to grow at an incredible pace, fueled by passionate fans and world-class tournaments. From the deep strategy of Dota 2 to the mobile intensity of PUBG Mobile and Mobile Legends, Asian bettors are spoiled for choice.

As regulation expands and markets mature, esports betting is set to become an even more integral part of Asia’s gaming culture. Whether you’re watching regional tournaments or exploring top-ranked sites from EsportsRanker, there’s never been a better time to experience the excitement of betting on Asia’s favorite esports.