As League of Legends (LoL) continues to dominate the esports scene in 2024, the range of betting options has expanded, providing fans with a variety of ways to engage with their favorite teams and matches. Whether you’re a casual bettor or a seasoned expert, understanding the different types of bets available is key to making informed decisions and enhancing your betting experience.
1. Match Winner
The most straightforward and popular betting type is simply wagering on which team will win a match. In LoL, teams compete in best-of-one, best-of-three, or best-of-five formats. Bettors can place their money on the team they believe will come out victorious. This bet requires knowledge of team strengths, performance history, and current form.
2. Handicap Betting
Handicap betting levels the playing field when there is a mismatch between teams. In LoL, this often comes in the form of map handicaps, where the stronger team starts with a disadvantage (e.g., -1.5 maps in a best-of-five series). If you bet on the stronger team, they must win by a greater margin to secure your win.
3. First Blood
One of the most exciting in-game moments is the first kill, or “First Blood.” Bettors can wager on which team will secure this early advantage. This bet requires a deep understanding of team playstyles, particularly in the early game, as some teams are known for aggressive starts while others prefer a slower, strategic approach.
4. First Dragon/Baron
Major objectives such as the Dragon and Baron Nashor play a critical role in shaping the outcome of matches. Bettors can wager on which team will secure the first Dragon or Baron. Teams that prioritize these objectives early often gain a significant edge, so understanding team strategies around objectives is crucial for making this bet.
5. Map Winner
In best-of-three or best-of-five series, you can bet on which team will win an individual map rather than the entire match. This bet allows for more specific predictions, particularly if a team is known for excelling on certain map drafts or champion compositions. Studying teams’ performance on specific maps is helpful for this type of wager.
6. Total Kills Over/Under
This betting type involves wagering on the total number of kills in a match. Betting platforms set a number, and you can place a bet on whether the total kills will be over or under that figure. This is a popular option for bettors who enjoy tracking the overall pace of the game. Teams with aggressive playstyles tend to lead to higher kill counts, while slower, more methodical teams may result in lower kill totals.
7. First Tower
In LoL, taking down the first tower grants a team a significant gold advantage and opens up the map for further plays. Bettors can place bets on which team will destroy the first tower. This bet is similar to First Blood but focuses on early macro play and map control rather than individual kills.
8. Total Maps Over/Under
For best-of series (Bo3 or Bo5), bettors can place wagers on how many maps will be played. Betting platforms set a number (e.g., 2.5 maps), and you bet on whether the total number of maps played will be over or under that figure. This bet type is ideal for those who expect a closely contested series or a dominant sweep.
9. Player Performance Bets
Some betting platforms offer player-specific wagers, such as betting on a specific player to get the most kills in a match or to secure key objectives like First Blood or First Dragon. These bets require an understanding of individual player strengths, champion pools, and their roles within the team’s strategy.
10. Prop Bets
Prop bets, or proposition bets, are fun, creative wagers that aren’t necessarily tied to the match outcome. Examples include predicting the duration of the game, whether a pentakill will occur, or if a specific champion will be picked or banned. These bets add an extra layer of excitement and are perfect for those looking for something different from standard match betting.
Conclusion
As League of Legends betting continues to evolve in 2024, understanding the wide array of betting types is crucial for making informed and exciting wagers. From simple match winner bets to intricate player performance and prop bets, LoL offers a dynamic betting experience for fans at all levels. By studying team playstyles, individual player performance, and in-game strategies, bettors can maximize their chances of success and enjoy the thrill of predicting the twists and turns of this fast-paced esport.