On February 14, 2025, PSB Academy in Singapore published an article titled “How the Esports and Gaming Industry is Creating a New Form of Tourism.” The piece explores how esports events, gaming conventions, and the travel industry are converging, positioning esports as a growing force in global tourism. While the article has a promotional slant, it highlights several important trends worth examining.
Key Takeaways
Esports events are described as high-energy spectacles comparable to major sports tournaments or music concerts. The article values the global esports market at US $4.8 billion by 2025, with a projected 5% CAGR through 2029, framing competitive gaming as a “tourism powerhouse” that boosts visitor spending.
Examples include DOTA 2’s The International 2024, which drew 1.52 million online viewers and thousands of in-person attendees, and EVO 2026 in Singapore, supported by SportSG and international partners. Both demonstrate how flagship events can attract international travelers.
The economic impact is highlighted through increased hotel occupancy, restaurant traffic, and local business revenue. Some hospitality groups, such as PARKROYAL Collection, are even introducing gaming-themed hotel rooms to cater to esports fans.
The article also points to conventions like Gamescom, PAX, and Gamescom Asia, which combine cosplay, previews, and merchandise. These events extend tourism demand beyond the arenas, creating spikes in accommodation and entertainment spending.
Hotels and venues are adapting by offering high-speed Wi-Fi, gaming-ready rooms with PCs and consoles, ergonomic setups, and by partnering with esports organizers. Many are now hosting on-site tournaments, watch parties, fan meet-ups, and cosplay contests.
Finally, PSB Academy promotes its tourism and esports diploma program, which blends hospitality studies with esports-specific training, positioning it as a pathway to careers in gaming tourism.
A Critical Perspective
Although the article is insightful, its market projections may be optimistic. While PSB cites US $4.8 billion by 2025, other research places the global esports market at US $2.13 billion in 2024 and closer to US $2.64 billion in 2025.
That said, the overall direction is accurate. Independent forecasts suggest esports tourism could grow at an 18–23% CAGR through 2030. The balance between virtual experiences (streaming and online fandom) and physical tourism (live tournaments, conventions, and arena visits) will determine how fast this sector develops.
Conclusion
Despite its promotional tone, PSB Academy’s article captures a real trend: esports is reshaping the travel and hospitality industry. Mega-events, conventions, and hotel innovations are transforming gaming into a tourism driver. Cities, venues, and educational institutions are starting to recognize this opportunity, building the foundation for a new era of esports tourism.
Comments