Apex Legends has carved out a serious place for itself in the world of eSports. Once seen as just another battle royale entry, it now stands tall beside titans like Dota 2, League of Legends, Valorant, and CS:GO. With rising prize pools, global competitions, and a growing pro scene, Apex is proving it’s not just built for casual play—it’s made for high-stakes competition.
CS:GO: Legacy Gameplay Backed by $15–20 Million Annual Prize Pools
CS:GO has remained an eSports staple for over a decade, consistently delivering high-stakes tournaments with prize pools in the $15–20 million range annually. Events like the PGL Majors and BLAST Premier keep the competitive scene alive and thriving. Beyond the gameplay, CS:GO is also known for its lootbox system, where skins are unlocked through Random Number Generator (RNG) technology—a mechanic similar to those found in online casinos.
Premium Crypto-powered gambling platforms now offer faster transactions and provably fair algorithms by leveraging blockchain technology. Meanwhile, the use of RNG technology means Players are guaranteed to have randomness of results (source: https://www.instantcasino.com). With a more symbiotic relationship than ever, the gamification of the industry continues to draw comparisons between iGaming and regular video games.
In the video gaming world, CS:GO skins are now being used as a tradable currency. Though Valve has cracked down on skin gambling, the connection between in-game cosmetics and real money continues to shape the CS:GO economy and its eSports landscape.
Apex Legends: $5 Million+ Annual Prize Pools and Rising
Apex Legends burst onto the scene in 2019 with tight mechanics, vibrant characters,and fast-paced gameplay. Since then, it’s steadily grown its eSports infrastructure with various tweaks like the upcoming format changes. The Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS) offers a multi-million-dollar prize pool, surpassing $5 million in 2023 alone.
Top events like the ALGS Championship draw international talent and viewership. EA and Respawn have embraced a tiered system, supporting grassroots tournaments while giving elite players a global stage. Its slick Movement, diverse roster of legends, and seasonal updates keep gameplay dynamic and highly watchable.
Dota 2: Over $40 Million at Its Peak
When it comes to raw prize pools, Dota 2 reigns supreme. The International set the record in 2020 with a jaw-dropping $40 million+ prize pool. Even in years when funding dips, it still comfortably lands above $15 million.
This is powered by Valve’s crowdfunding model, where players buy Battle Passes that feed directly into the prize pot. Dota’s eSports appeal lies in its ultra-deep mechanics, complex team dynamics, and the legacy of unforgettable championship moments. While its viewership has declined slightly, its financial impact on eSports is unmatched.
League of Legends: Consistent $2–5 Million Prize Pools with Global Reach
League of Legends doesn’t lead in prize money, but it dominates in structure, audience, and consistency. Riot Games has built an empire of franchised regional leagues (LCS, LEC, LCK, and more), culminating in the World Championship each year.
Worlds 2023 featured a prize pool in the $2.2 million range—modest by comparison, but backed by lucrative player salaries, team sponsorships, and broadcast deals. Riot’s investment in infrastructure creates long-term stability for players and orgs alike, making LoL the gold standard for global eSports sustainability.
Valorant: Rapid Growth with $2.25 Million+ Prize Pools
Valorant is Riot’s ambitious entry into the tactical shooter space, and it’s already earning its stripes. The Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) continues to grow each year. In 2023, the Valorant Champions event boasted a $2.25 million prize pool, up from $1 million the year before.
Riot’s experience from League has helped Valorant hit the ground running, with a strong focus on structured competition and international presence. The game’s clean visuals, balanced gunplay, and evolving meta keep it fresh for players and viewers alike.
FAQs: Quick Answers on Top eSports Titles
How much does Apex Legends pay out in tournaments?
The Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS) boasts a total prize pool exceeding $5 million per season, with top teams earning six-figure payouts.
Why is Dota 2’s prize pool so massive?
Valve funds the international prize pool largely through its battle pass sales, allowing fans to directly contribute. This model has pushed prize pools past $40 million.
Is CS:GO gambling really tied to lootboxes?
Yes. While lootboxes are for in-game cosmetics, many third-party markets allow skin trading and betting, often involving real money or crypto, raising legal and ethical concerns.
Does Valorant have lootboxes?
No. Valorant sells skins via a rotating store and bundle system, avoiding the randomness and legal scrutiny tied to lootbox mechanics.
Can pro gamers make a career from Apex Legends?
Absolutely. Between tournament winnings, sponsorships, and streaming revenue, top Apex players can build full-time careers in eSports.
Conclusion
Apex Legends has earned its seat at the high-stakes table. With a solid competitive foundation, global tournaments, and rising prize pools, it’s now competing with the biggest names in eSports.
While Dota 2 still owns the prize pool crown, and League of Legends commands the biggest audience, Apex continues to climb fast. Its unique blend of battle royale chaos and team-based tactics is striking the right chord with players and fans alike. As eSports continues to grow, Apex Legends isn’t just riding the wave—it’s helping to shape it.
