Historic review of online games and their re-evolution as e-sports

Abstract

The thesis begins by exploring the evolution of online games into e Sports, delving into the journey from simple games like Pong to complex ones like Unreal Tournament. It examines the factors behind the fame of e-Sports, including competition, monetary incentives, comfort of playing from home, and internet visibility. Objective: The purpose is to showcase the increasing interest and development in online games and e-Sports, focusing on how these games have transformed from leisure activities into professional pursuits. The goal is to understand public perception towards online games and e-Sports, particularly whether they are viewed positively or negatively, and their potential as a professional or recreational activity. Methodology: The research employs a qualitative methodology, incorporating interviews with e-Sports professionals, game developers, and educators, as well as analysis of academic journals and news articles. The study aims to understand the historical progression of e-Sports, its social and economic impact, and the potential for integrating e-Sports into physical education programs. Results: The thesis presents a comprehensive view of e-Sports' development, from its early days to its current status as a global phenomenon. It discusses the social and economic aspects of e-Sports, including its business model, revenue generation, and societal impact. The research also highlights the potential benefits and challenges of integrating e-Sports into educational settings. Conclusion: The study concludes that e-Sports have significantly evolved, influencing social norms, economic models, and even educational systems. The growing popularity and professionalization of e-Sports signify its potential to become a mainstream competitive activity, paralleling traditional sports in many aspects. The thesis suggests that e-Sports' future will likely see increased professionalization, broader audience appeal, and more significant integration into various societal domains. Key Words: E sports, game developers, traditional sports, marketing.