Jul 26, 2025
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The world of esports in 2025 is nothing short of breathtaking. Record-breaking prize pools, huge global tournaments, and millions of passionate fans are taking competitive gaming to unprecedented heights. From the dominance of Counter-Strike 2 to Fortnite’s global comeback, here’s a handpicked overview of the best esports games that are spearheading the movement this year.
Counter-Strike 2 is still reigning with an astounding US$4.83 million worth of prize money disbursed in the first part of 2025. The tactical first-person shooter is still a worldwide phenomenon that attracts experienced gamers and newcomers.
The BLAST.tv Austin Major, which will take place in Texas in June with a prize pool of US$1.25 million, is set to be a focal event this year. It will be one of the year’s most-watched esports events, with 32 teams fighting before a massive live audience.
Although Dota 2 may not reach the record-breaking heights of previous years, it remains a giant, with US$4.31 million in prize pools shared in 2025. Viewers are already waiting with bated breath for The International 2025, which promises to award between US$15–20 million in prizes.
Valve’s decision to change focus towards a community-supported prize pool model is still generating controversy. However, in terms of raw prestige, there are not many tournaments as intense and high-stakes as The International.
Ubisoft’s Rainbow Six Siege has become a force to be reckoned with in the competitive environment, with US$3.10 million in prize money this year. The official Major and community-operated leagues have carved out a robust and healthy ecosystem.
With strong backing from Europe and Latin America, Rainbow Six has shown the world that tactical shooters outside of CS2 have life in the international market.
Fortnite made a colossal comeback in 2025 with a US$8 million prize fund for the Fortnite Championship Series (FNCS) Finals to be held in Lyon, France. Interest was sparked again with a return to the trios format and advanced competitive structure.
Outside of the prize, Fortnite’s cultural cache is second to none, intertwining esports and entertainment in a way that few are able to match.
Apex Legends is maintaining a respectable US$2 million in prize money this year so far. This has rewarded Respawn Entertainment for its balancing efforts within the competitive meta, with decent viewership numbers for ALGS Championships.
The unique combination of hero shooter and battle royale keeps amusing people worldwide.
Fighting games are experiencing a renaissance, and Street Fighter 6 leads the way. The latest edition, distributed in 2025 by Capcom, generated US$1.44 million in prize funds.
A powerful showcase of fighting gaming, Capcom Cup 11 Tokyo, presented hardcore battles, assessed regional pride, and commented on brand-new and state-of-the-art characters. With insights into US$1 million grand-prize glory, Capcom Cup showed that fighting games can cheekily thrive in a hot-and-heavy esports arena.
The game Madden NFL is quietly impressive since, unlike mainstream esports, it has an award pool of US$1.40 million for the year. A sufficiently healthy fan base in North America combined with an organized lague format by EA continues to churn out nail-biting competitions and generous prize pools.
For gamers and fans of traditional sports alike, Madden is still a must-bridge between two dedicated fan bases.
League of Legends is changing, but it still holds sway with US$1.39 million in prize money so far. The 2025 World Championship in Chengdu, China, holds out the promise of new dynamics with the implementation of the "Fearless Draft" system.
While there has been some criticism of competitive format adjustments, Riot Games’ innovation keeps League fresh and thrilling as ever.
With an impressive prize pool of US$998,297, Rocket League stands out as an accessible and exhilarating esport to be viewed on-screen. The hybrid game of soccer-car has landed itself into the hearts of fans, especially in the younger generation.
RLCS markets are expanding, thus keeping Rocket League globally appealing.
Valorant comes in the tenth place this year with US$765,579 in prizes. Despite the serious ongoing competition with CS2, Riot’s tactical shooter keeps growing due to its vibrant rivalries and an innovative esports format.
The Paris Valorant Champions 2025 is set to be an unmissable spectacle, with new AI-powered observer systems to boost the viewing experience.
The Esports World Cup is scheduled to return to Saudi Arabia in 2025 after some fast-paced expansion and will consist of 24 titles and a prize pool of US$70 million. Probably the biggest year in esports history with sponsorships at an all-time high, grassroots competitions being funded like never before, and improving tech applications over all fronts.
The 2025 competitive gaming landscape truly encompasses everybody: be it a Dota-beater, a Fortnite-borne-again-champion, or a budding Rocket League star.
