A Dean College student holding a controller during Esports gaming

Esports are one of the newest trends to have emerged at universities around the country. Not only do schools put together competitive esports teams, but many also offer majors and minors in the subject, such as Esports Management.

So, what exactly is esports? It’s a term for competitive professional video gaming. What started as a trend doesn't seem to be going anywhere soon, thanks to high profile sponsors, professional players and tournaments that require a number of skilled workers, from those who set up the computers and screens to the marketers who let the world know about the tournament.

However, as with all new trends, with all of these facts come a number of myths. Wondering what’s true and what’s not? Let's debunk some of those myths right now.

1) Video games are only for children.

Wrong! This statement isn't true at all. While there are a number of games designed specifically for children, the ones used in esports are meant to be played by adults. Games like Call of Duty, Rainbow Six Siege, Red Dead Redemption and more are designed for adults and have a higher level of gameplay.

2) Anyone can be an esports professional.

Nope. People tend to think that they can sit down in front of a screen with a controller and automatically compete on a professional level. This isn't true. Much like with professional athletes in other fields, such as baseball and football, it takes many years of practice and time spent honing your skills in order to become an esports professional. Just like with real sports, practice makes perfect.

3) Professional gamers are antisocial.

Wrong again. Professional gamers are anything but antisocial. Although they may sit in front of a screen for hours at a time, they are actually discussing team movements and other things with the people they are playing with. Some of those other players may be based all over the world, and playing with or against them is a great way to make friends. There isn't anything antisocial about esports.

4) Esports tournaments are boring.

Not necessarily. If you've ever watched someone playing video games, then you know without a doubt that it's far from boring. You feel all of the movements on the screens, from getting hit with a virtual weapon to seeing the other team fail to win the battle. It's like watching a professional sports tournament (because it is one) in person. You cheer for your favorite players and get to see all of the action close up.

5) Eventually, esports won't be a thing anymore.

We don’t see this happening any time soon. People said the same thing about computers, the internet, smartphones, social media and so on. Those things never disappeared, and are now an ingrained part of society. The same is true with esports. The field has only grown in size and has even picked up some deep-pocketed corporate sponsors, and will continue to do so. You can expect esports to become an official part of society for years to come.

As you can see, there are quite a few myths about esports that simply aren't true. This field is constantly growing and gaining more and more popularity every single day. Interested in learning more about a career in esports? Request more information, today!