If you are into eSports and are thinking of starting betting on the results of matches, that’s not a bad idea. When done responsibly, betting can be a fun and interesting way to add more stakes to live matches and give you a reason to learn more about different games, players, and teams.
However, figuring out where and how you can safely place your first bets can be a bit daunting. So here are some tips that will allow you to start betting on your favorite teams with minimal hassle.
1 – Shop for options
There are many sites that allow you to place bets on eSports, and each option comes with advantages and disadvantages. Instead of signing up for the first site you find, compile half a dozen options, and compare their offerings.
For example, you will find that some sites allow you to bet on traditional and eSports events, while others only allow the latter. Which is something to keep in mind if you want to bet on Overwatch League matches and on who will score the most Premier League own goals all in the same place.
2 – Check local regulations
While sports betting is legal in most countries, it is often regulated to prevent abuse and tax evasion. Read up on the basics of what is required of betting websites in your country, then check to see if the site you want to bet on is complying with these regulations.
For example, in the UK gambling sites and online venues need to be registered with the British Gambling Commission, and sites that are regulated and registered in the UK will display information related to their registration on their homepage, or somewhere on their sites.
3 – Check online reviews
Another way to make sure a betting venue is above board is to check online reviews of their service. This can help you figure out which of the venues has a reputation of excellence, and which have a history of not paying players or making it harder for players to cash out after they’ve won.
This can also help you spot betting websites which are too new to have an established online reputation. Just because a business is new doesn’t mean it’s untrustworthy but, since this guide is for absolute beginners, it’s safer to stick with well-established betting sites rather than be an early adopter.
4 – Check the app
It’s becoming increasingly common for betting websites to have apps. You may have a hard time finding those apps on your phone’s app store due to local regulations or other limitations, but you can still usually get said app straight from the site you want to bet on.
A good betting app makes it easier for you to keep an eye on your bets and place new ones without having to alt+tab from the ongoing match, which is very convenient. If this interests you, make sure you check to see if the betting site you are considering has a good app or mobile version before you start placing bets with them.
5 – Bet in games you’re familiar with
Don’t be discouraged if most betting sites are focused on games you don’t enjoy. As long as a certain game has a competitive scene, the chances of a site offering bets on that game are high. You just might have to do a little digging to find it.
And it is best to bet in a game you enjoy watching and are familiar with. Not only does that improve your odds of selecting a winning bet, but it also helps you better understand the parameters of the various bets being offered.
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