eSports is one of New Zealand’s fastest growing betting markets, and many punters are keen to find out where and how they can place eSports bets online. Due to the burgeoning demand, many reputable online sportsbooks have included it among their markets.
However, finding a trusted site is not as simple as a quick Google and then signing up at the first online sportsbook punters find. There are a few things punters should check before they part with their hard-earned, just to be safe.
Only when punters are satisfied with a sportsbook’s credentials should they sign up and start betting. Punters can determine whether or not a sportsbook is worth the time and effort by taking note of the markets offered, supportive services and security, licensing and regulation, and even whether or not promotions or bonuses are offered.
eSports Bets Markets
The markets on which punters in New Zealand can place online eSports bets are dominated by several games. However, punters may find sportsbooks that offer markets on various other games as well.
The most popular markets are games that have a large following among gamers around the world. They include games such as CS:GO, Dota 2, League of Legends, and Starcraft 2.
Among the other markets punters may find at reputable online sportsbooks are SMITE, Hearthstone, Call of Duty, Heroes of the Storm, World of Tanks, and Vainglory. Punters should be able to place different types of real money bets on each of the markets.
Types of eSports Bets
The different eSports markets at online sportsbooks for punters in New Zealand generally offer similar types of bets. eSports bets are similar to those placed on regular sports such as cricket or rugby.
The types of bets punters can place usually fall into one of three categories. Those categories are Match bets, Exotic bets, of which parlays are one example, and live or in-play bets.
Supportive eSports Betting Services
When considering signing up at esports betting sites, punters should check that supportive services are readily available. Such services include banking and support.
Banking services should accept a wide range of payment methods such as credit cards, prepaid cards, e-wallets, and direct bank transfers. They should also be protected by international banking-standard data encryption security technology.
Support for account and technical queries should be available 24/7. There should be a number of ways in which punters can contact the support team, if need be. Live chat, email, and telephone should be among the contact method options.
eSports Bets Promotions
Reputable online bookmakers that offer eSports bets usually run regular promotions. Sign-up offers and bonuses are often among the most prominent promotions.
Before claiming any bonus offers, punters should read the fine print, and ensure they understand the terms and conditions. If the promotion is a bonus, it may require punters to make a deposit.
Online Sportsbook Licensing
Another way in which punters can assess the quality of an online sportsbook that offers eSports bets is to check that the site is licensed and regulated. Punters should never place bets at a sportsbook that is not licensed and regulated by a reputable gaming and betting jurisdiction.
Licensing and regulation information is usually displayed on the sportsbook’s home page.