Esports Fans Don’t Just Watch. They Multitask

Whether it’s checking live stats, chatting on Discord, or playing a game in the background, esports viewing is an experience, not just a show. But what exactly are fans doing while watching? And how does it compare to traditional sports?

Esports Viewing: A Fully Interactive Experience

I don’t just watch esports. I experience it. Whether it's a CS2 grand final or a high-stakes Dota 2 match, I’ve got a second screen open, scrolling through stats, checking predictions, or chatting with friends. And, more often than not, I’m also playing Teamfight Tactics in the background.

Because let’s be real. Esports isn’t like traditional sports. It’s not something you passively watch on a TV while sitting back with a beer (unless you’ve got a massive screen to make up for the cluttered overlay). Esports viewing is interactive, and fans are constantly engaged in something beyond just the main broadcast.

What Are Esports Fans Doing While Watching?

For most esports fans, one screen isn’t enough. Whether it's a phone, tablet, or a second monitor, viewers are constantly juggling multiple activities:

• Checking live stats – Sites like HLTV or datDota help track player ratings, net worth swings, and key moment breakdowns.
• Prediction games & betting – Fantasy leagues, pick’ems, and esports betting add another layer of excitement.
• Watching highlights & replays – Even during live games, fans pull up clips to analyze what just happened.
• Browsing Reddit & social media – Real-time reactions on Twitter, memes on Reddit, and discussions in Discord keep the hype alive.
• Chatting with friends – Whether it’s in a group chat, a Discord voice call, or Twitch chat, esports is a social experience.
• Playing games – Background games like TFT, Hearthstone, or auto-battlers keep fans engaged without missing key moments.

This is where esports fans differ from traditional sports viewers. While sports fans also check social media or stats, esports audiences take it a step further—actively engaging in Twitch chat, using live-stream extensions for in-depth analysis, and even influencing broadcasts through polls and interactive features. Esports isn’t just about watching—it’s about participating.

The Future of Esports Viewing: Even More Interactivity?

Esports has already blurred the line between watching and interacting. With AI-powered overlays, integrated prediction games, and even VR watch parties becoming more common, the next step could be even deeper integration between the audience and the game.

For now, though, I’ll stick to my usual setup: one screen for the match, another for stats, Twitter open for reactions, and a casual TFT game running in the background. That’s how I enjoy esports.

What about you? Do you use a second screen, or are you fully locked in on the main broadcast? Drop your thoughts in the comments or on social media, I’ll probably be checking while watching the next match.