Top Esports Tournaments to Watch This Year
Esports continues its explosive growth in 2025, attracting millions of viewers, massive sponsorships, and professional players from around the world. With tournaments becoming larger, more competitive, and more global each year, esports has firmly cemented itself as a premier entertainment industry. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or just starting to explore competitive gaming, this year’s esports calendar is packed with thrilling events you won’t want to miss.
Here are the top esports tournaments to watch this year, each offering world-class gameplay, drama, and unforgettable moments.
1. The International (Dota 2)
Dota 2’s The International remains one of the biggest esports tournaments globally. Known for its staggering prize pools and emotional storylines, it brings together the world’s best teams for an epic showdown.
Why watch it:
- Elite-level strategy and intense gameplay
- Record-breaking prize money
- Electrifying main stage atmosphere
The International is a must-watch for MOBA fans and esports enthusiasts alike.
2. League of Legends World Championship
The LoL Worlds tournament is one of the most-watched esports events every year. Featuring teams from every major region, this championship showcases the best in strategy, teamwork, and mechanical skill.
Highlights:
- Stunning opening ceremonies
- Iconic plays and rivalries
- Global fan engagement
This is where legends are born and esports history is made.
3. Valorant Champions Tour (VCT)
Riot Games’ tactical shooter Valorant has grown rapidly, and its Champions Tour is now a top-tier esports event worldwide.
What makes VCT exciting:
- Fast-paced tactical matches
- Rising esports stars
- Professional-level precision and strategies
VCT’s intense format ensures non-stop excitement from start to finish.
4. PUBG Mobile Global Championship (PMGC)
Mobile esports is booming, and PMGC stands as the biggest tournament in the mobile gaming industry.
Why it’s worth watching:
- High-skilled mobile players
- Strategic squad battles
- Fast, unpredictable action
PMGC attracts a massive international audience and showcases the best talent in mobile gaming.
5. Counter-Strike 2 Major Championships
Counter-Strike remains a foundational esports title, and its CS2 Majors bring out the most experienced and disciplined professional players.
Expect:
- Tactical gameplay
- Legendary comebacks
- Electrifying crowd reactions
CS2 Majors are known for producing some of esports’ most unforgettable moments.
6. Fortnite Champion Series (FNCS)
Fortnite’s competitive scene thrives through the FNCS, featuring solo and squad battles among the world’s top builders and sharpshooters.
What makes FNCS unique:
- Creative playstyles
- High-action endgames
- Young rising stars
It’s an exciting watch for fans of fast-paced battle royale gameplay.
7. Mobile Legends: Bang Bang M5 World Championship
MLBB remains a dominant force in Southeast Asia, and the M5 World Championship brings together top teams for an explosive tournament.
Highlights:
- Rapid 10–15 minute matches
- High skill ceilings
- Passionate fan communities
Its fast tempo makes it perfect for viewers who want non-stop action.
8. Rocket League Championship Series (RLCS)
Rocket League blends soccer with rocket-powered cars, creating one of the most unique esports experiences.
Why RLCS stands out:
- Easy to understand
- Extremely high skill
- Fast-paced, acrobatic gameplay
It’s one of the most fun esports tournaments to watch, even for newcomers.
9. Free Fire World Series (FFWS)
Another top-tier mobile esports event, the Free Fire World Series, continues to draw massive attention.
Expect:
- Explosive gameplay
- Creative character abilities
- Unpredictable final circles
FFWS remains one of the most-watched esports tournaments each year.
10. Niche and Community-Based Tournaments
Beyond the major global tournaments, smaller esports events are thriving within niche communities. Competitive online platforms — from strategy arenas to casual gaming hubs like poker qq and qqemas — host tournaments attracting dedicated audiences around the world.
These community-driven events contribute to the growing diversity of competitive gaming.
What Makes These Tournaments Worth Watching?
✔ High-level skill and precision
Watching professionals play offers deep insight into advanced strategies and competitive mindset.
✔ Global fan atmosphere
Live chats, watch parties, and arena audiences amplify the experience.
✔ Constant action and unpredictable outcomes
No two matches are the same — every game delivers excitement.
✔ Inspiring stories
Underdogs, legends, rivalries, emotional victories — esports has it all.
Final Thoughts
2025 is shaping up to be one of the biggest years yet for esports. With tournaments spanning every major genre — shooters, MOBAs, battle royales, sports titles, and mobile games — there’s something for every viewer. Whether you’re a fan of high-level tactical play or simply enjoy thrilling competition, these tournaments guarantee unforgettable moments.
Esports is not just entertainment — it’s a global movement, and these events are at the center of it all.
