Esports is a video gaming competition played with spectators, typically by professional players. Like many games before it, such as chess, many have come to ask whether it can be classed as a 'sport'. Should the definition of 'sport' include Esports?
Yes, Esports has a legitimate claim at being a sport
Esports does fit definitions of sports and has already been classed as one in some circumstances. Esports should be classed as a legitimate sport.
Esports involves skill
One of the defining features of a 'sport' is that it involves skill. Esports, as with traditional sports, involves a significant amount of skill which is honed through many hours of training.
Esports is recognised as a sport in multiple countries
The United States, South Korea, and Poland are all countries which recognise Esports as a sport or sport-like. If governing bodies recognise it as a legitimate sport, then it must be true.
No, Esports does not have a legitimate claim at being a sport
Esports does not involve any of the features which typically define sports, and is therefore not a true sport.
Esports does not involve physical exertion or effort
The Oxford definition of 'sport' is "an activity involving physical exertion and skill in which an individual or team competes against another or others for entertainment." Esports does not fit this definition.
Esports does not offer the physical health benefits of traditional sports
Sports is thought of as a type of exercise and offers many physical health benefits. Many people consider it a vital part of their everyday health and wellbeing. However, Esports does not offer any of the same benefits that traditional sports do.
