Today’s competitive landscape is filled with games that are constantly evolving, whether it be through new gameplay mechanics or an entirely new meta. As gaming becomes more accessible, the eSports scene has grown in size and scope. In the last few years alone, the industry has grown from a $493 million market in 2017 to a projected $1.1 billion market in 2019.

With so many games and platforms to choose from, virtual competition has become a natural outlet for all types of players—veterans included. Whether you enjoy first-person shooters or strategy games, there is something for every kind of gamer out there. Think you don’t have what it takes to compete? Think again! There are plenty of ways you can get started in the world of virtual competition, and here are just a few options we recommend exploring:

How to get started in US Army eSports

US Army Video Game Center
(Source: fightlaunch/Wikimedia)

When you’re just starting out, the best thing you can do is play the game and understand its mechanics. For example, if you’re interested in competing in a first-person shooter, you need to be familiar with the controls, game types, and maps associated with that game. This can seem like a lot, but it’s essential to immerse yourself in the competitive scene and see where you fall within your skill level. This way, you’ll be able to gauge how competitive the game is and decide if it’s something you’d like to pursue.

Play the game and understand its mechanics

Once you’re familiar with a game, it’s important to start networking and finding other gamers who are also interested in competing. Joining Discord servers, Reddit forums, or any other online communities where players congregate can be a great place to start.

Those competitive in games are often committed to their virtual sports and will likely be willing to share their insights and provide helpful tips on improving your gameplay. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in eSports, it’s crucial to understand that competition can be a full-time job. Therefore, you must fully commit to your game of choice and be willing to put in the hours and hours of practice necessary to succeed.

Network and find other gamers who are also interested in competing

If you’ve found that the game you’re interested in is particularly competitive, it’s a good idea to start practicing and training even if you’re not interested in competing professionally. You will improve your gameplay, gain valuable experience, and be better prepared if you decide that you do want to take your game to the next level.

Train and continuously improve your skillset