Some of you may wonder, “Is the eSports market size growing?”, “What trends are occurring in Japan?”, and “What is predicted for the future?”.

The eSports market size is on an upward trend both in Japan and globally, and it is expected to continue growing in the future.

The structure that links competitions, tournaments, and streaming is currently boosting the entire market.

This article explains the current state of the eSports market size in Japan and around the world, as well as its trends and future predictions.

Additionally, we will introduce the factors supporting market expansion, the revenue models available to players and streamers, and business opportunities.

By reading to the end, you will gain a correct understanding of the developments surrounding eSports, and your options for streaming activities and career choices will become clearer.

Summary of the eSports Market Size! Current Status in Japan and Worldwide

We will explain the current state of the eSports market size, divided between Japan and the world.

By comparing the growth speed of the domestic market with the overall expansion on a global scale, the current state of the eSports market size will become clearer.

There are also articles that explain eSports in detail, so let’s check those as well.

» What is esports? A clear explanation of its structure, history, and popular titles

Market Size in Japan

The eSports market size in Japan is expanding year by year, progressing not only as a competition but also growing as an industry.

According to the Ministry of Finance, as of 2021, the market size was approximately 7.84 billion yen, and it is projected to expand to around 15.02 billion yen by 2024.
※Source: Ministry of Finance “For the Development of eSports in Japan ”

In particular, the structure supporting revenue from event operations and sponsors has strengthened, and peripheral businesses are also expanding.

Moreover, the increase in streamers and viewers has contributed to revenue opportunities centered around streaming, boosting the entire market.

The eSports market in Japan is steadily solidifying its foundation, linked through competitions, tournaments, and streaming.

Market Size Worldwide

The eSports market size globally continues to expand, becoming established as a global industry.

The global market has grown to over 2 billion USD, and a high growth rate is expected in the mid to long term.
※Source: Straits Research “eSports Market Size and Outlook 2025-2033”

Notably, it is anticipated that from 2025 onwards, increased event occurrences and streaming viewership will significantly boost market size.

In the global scene, the United States stands out for its substantial advertising and sponsorship revenue, acting as a driving force for market expansion.

Additionally, South Korea has a mature competitive scene and viewing culture, providing a stable market foundation.

While the growth phases vary by country, it is believed that the overall eSports market size will continue to expand globally.

Will the eSports Market Size Continue to Expand? Future Predictions

Based on the trends up to now, it can be predicted that the eSports market size will continue to expand.

The global market is projected to reach a size of approximately 2.6 billion USD by 2025, with significant growth expected into the early 2030s.
※Source: Straits Research “eSports Market Size and Outlook 2025-2033”

In the mid to long term, an average growth rate of around 20% is anticipated, and it is expected to eventually surpass 10 billion USD in scale.

The background of this growth includes the increase in the number of tournaments held and the expansion of streaming viewership, with advertising and sponsorship revenues supporting the market.

Domestically, both market size and fan population are on the rise, with the number of fans expanding to about 8 million as of 2023.

Given that both market size and fan base are expanding simultaneously, it can be said that eSports is a field that will continue to grow.

Reasons for the Expansion of the eSports Market Size

Several factors contribute to the expansion of the eSports market size.

This chapter explains three reasons for the expansion of the eSports market size.

1. Youth support and the increase in sponsoring companies
2. The proliferation of mobile eSports and live streaming
3. Advancements in high-speed communication and new technologies

Let’s take a closer look at how each factor contributes to the expansion of the market size.

Youth Support and Increase in Sponsoring Companies

A major reason for the expansion of the eSports market size is the support of young people and the increase in corporate investment.

A culture of watching games has taken root among the youth, leading to increased interest in streaming viewership and participation in tournaments.

The increase in viewing time and fan population enhances the value of competitive gaming, underpinning market growth.

Furthermore, companies focusing on the appeal to younger demographics are actively entering as sponsors and advertisers.

The expansion of corporate investment has improved tournament operations and streaming environments, thus enhancing the quality of the competitive scene.

As a structure has been formed where demand and investment are interlinked, the eSports market continues to expand sustainably.

Proliferation of Mobile eSports and Live Streaming Culture

The background of the expansion of the eSports market size is the spread of mobile devices and the establishment of live streaming culture.

With the increase in titles for smartphones, the barriers to participation in competitions have lowered, broadening the pool of competitors.

Mobile eSports can be played in short sessions, creating opportunities for daily engagement with the competitions.

Simultaneously, the culture of watching matches and gameplay through live streaming has permeated among the youth.

Actions have become easier to transition from viewing to participation, thereby promoting the increase in competitive players.

The synergy between the proliferation of mobile devices and the streaming culture can be considered a significant factor supporting market expansion.

Advancements in High-Speed Communication and New Technologies

Another reason for the expansion of the eSports market size is the advancements in high-speed communication and new technologies, which enhance market value.

With the acceleration of communication, low-latency matches and stable streaming have become possible, thereby enhancing competitiveness.

The quality of visual expression and viewing experiences has also improved, thus boosting viewer satisfaction and supporting market growth.

Additionally, the expansion of new ways to watch and experience eSports using VR and AR technologies is broadening its appeal.

On the other hand, addressing costs remains a challenge in advancing facility investments and creating compatible environments.

If progress in communication and technological innovation can simultaneously resolve challenges and enhance value, market expansion is likely to accelerate further.

Revenue Models Supporting Players in the eSports Market Size

One element supporting the market size of eSports is the diverse revenue models available to players themselves.

This chapter explains three revenue models related to players that support the eSports market size.

1. Earning prize money from tournaments
2. Income from sponsorship contracts
3. Revenue from streaming and content creation

Let’s take a look at how each revenue model operates in turn.

Earning Prize Money from Tournaments

One representative revenue model for eSports players is the system where they earn prize money based on their performance in tournaments.

In official tournaments and leagues, the total prize money is determined based on rankings and number of wins, which is then distributed to the top competitors.

The larger the scale of the tournament, the higher the prize amounts, enabling the creation of an environment where players can focus on competition.

In tournaments where teams participate, it is common for the prize money earned to be distributed among the players.

While this income is not guaranteed, the potential for high prize earnings based on skill is a characteristic of eSports.

Income from Sponsorship Contracts

Among the revenue models for eSports players, income from sponsorship contracts occupies an important position.

Companies recognize value in the visibility of players and teams, their competitive achievements, and their ability to communicate, providing funding and compensation.

Contract terms often include placements of logos on uniforms and mentions during tournaments and streams.

With support from sponsors, it becomes possible to secure funds for equipment purchases and travel expenses, making it easier to concentrate on competitions.

Not only competitive results, but also streaming activities and communication efforts are evaluated, which is noteworthy.

When corporate support is tied to player activities, a stable revenue base is formed, contributing to overall market growth.

Revenue from Streaming and Content Creation

As an increasingly important revenue model for eSports players, income from streaming and content creation is gaining significance.

In video streaming, advertising revenue and viewer donations are primary sources of income.

The more viewers and views increase, the more revenue grows, allowing activities outside of competitions to become monetized.

Additionally, the ability to widen income opportunities through various formats such as video postings and clips is also characteristic.

Because players can operate online, they are less constrained by location or tournament schedules.

By combining streaming and competition, it is possible to build a stable revenue base.

Benefits for Players from the Expansion of the eSports Market Size

As the eSports market expands, the benefits available to players are diversifying.

This chapter explains three benefits that players gain from the expansion of the eSports market size.

1. Increased requests for official tournament streaming and commentary production
2. Growth in corporate projects and PR collaborations
3. Increased revenue sources through merchandise and community

Let’s look at the details of each benefit.

Increased Requests for Official Tournament Streaming and Commentary Production

Due to the expansion of the eSports market, there will likely be more requests for official tournament streaming and commentary production.

With the increase in the number of tournaments and league operations, there is a growing demand for enhanced streaming setups.

Streamers or former players with a deep understanding of the competitions are likely to find it easier to gain opportunities to appear on official programs.

Fees for commentary or analysis will become a stable source of income and provide an alternative revenue stream apart from streaming activities.

Accumulating achievements in streaming and commentary can lead to continued requests from tournament organizers and production companies.

Participation in official tournament streaming also enhances credibility as a streamer.

Growth in Corporate Projects and PR Collaborations

As more companies enter the eSports market, there will be an expansion of opportunities for corporate projects and PR collaborations aimed at streamers.

Not limited to gaming-related companies, industries such as beverages, apparel, and IT services are increasingly focusing on the eSports field.

Product placements within streams and appearances in collaborative programming are becoming increasingly diverse.

Corporate projects yield not only one-time compensation but can also lead to continuous contracts, strengthening the revenue aspect.

The influence of streamers and their fan bases is becoming a point of evaluation, placing importance on values beyond competitive achievements.

As the market expands, PR collaborations are becoming a crucial element supporting stable revenues for players.

Increased Revenue Sources through Merchandise and Community

The expansion of the eSports market will likely facilitate revenue generation through merchandise sales and community operations.

As the fan population grows, the trend of purchasing merchandise as a form of support is becoming established.

Items like apparel and digital goods are functioning as revenue sources that can be used regularly.

Moreover, increasingly popular are membership services utilizing online communities.

Through exclusive streams and interaction events, continuous revenue generation is a strength.

The growing fan base contributes to supporting a stable revenue model.

Business Opportunities from the Expansion of the eSports Market Size

As the eSports market expands, business opportunities are also widening in the peripheral areas related to competitions and streaming.

This chapter introduces three business opportunities that can be pursued due to the expansion of the eSports market size.

1. Participation in education, municipalities, and local projects
2. Acquisition of new fans through collaborations with brands
3. Launching new businesses linked to eSports

Let’s check what opportunities are emerging.

Participation in Education, Municipalities, and Local Projects

With the expansion of the eSports market, participation in educational institutions, municipalities, and local projects can become a promising business opportunity.

Schools are increasingly introducing club activities and classes in conjunction with eSports stakeholders, broadening understanding of competitions and learning in the digital field.

In municipalities and local areas, initiatives for community development through event hosting and building interaction hubs are expanding.

With streamers and those with operational experience involved, it becomes possible to provide value utilizing planning and communication skills.

Activities centered around education and the community have high sustainability, leading to long-term business opportunities.

Acquisition of New Fans through Collaborations with Brands

The expansion of the eSports market size provides an effective means for acquiring new fans through collaborations with brands.

By collaborating with brands from different industries, streamers can reach audiences beyond gaming, thus broadening awareness.

Through collaborative projects with brands, streamers’ individuality and communication abilities can be conveyed, fostering the attachment of new audiences.

By accumulating collaborative achievements with brands, streamers can enhance their influence and position themselves to secure ongoing projects and revenue expansion.

Launching New Businesses Linked to eSports

The expansion of the eSports market creates a chance to establish new businesses.

As the number of competitors and viewers increases, demand for school operations and training services is rising.

Simultaneously, the value of community operations where fans can interact and event planning is also on the rise.

Utilizing streaming know-how and operational experience allows differentiation from existing businesses.

New businesses can start on a small scale, and there is potential for development focusing on local aspects or online.

Businesses linked to eSports are expected to lead to continuous revenue opportunities against the backdrop of a growing market.

Conclusion

This article organized and explained the eSports market size, covering the current status in Japan and globally, and trends up until now, as well as future predictions.

The market continues to expand, backed by the increase in competitors and viewers, growing as an industry where streaming, competitions, and business interconnect.

From a player’s perspective, revenue models through prize money, sponsorships, and streaming are being established, widening their scope of activity.

On the other hand, there are differences in the growth speed and revenue opportunities in the market, making it important to assess fields and participation methods.

Given the contents of this article, consider how to utilize a correct understanding of market trends in your streaming activities and career development.

If you’re interested in the latest information on esports, refer to the following articles, too.

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