Esports is an exciting and rapidly growing industry, but getting started as a new player can be overwhelming. With so many competitive titles, each with unique mechanics, strategies, and communities, beginners often wonder which games are beginner-friendly yet still rewarding to play. While some games require years of practice to compete at a high level, others provide an accessible entry point with engaging gameplay and opportunities to improve quickly.
This blog explores the best esports games for new players, highlighting what makes them approachable, competitive, and fun.
1. Rocket League
Rocket League combines soccer with high-speed vehicles in an arcade-style experience that is easy to pick up but hard to master.
Why It’s Good for New Players:
- Simple core mechanics: hit the ball into the goal.
- Quick matches, allowing for fast learning and frequent practice.
- Intuitive controls, with tutorials that teach aerial hits, dribbles, and team positioning.
Competitive Scene:
- Rocket League Championship Series (RLCS) provides a structured competitive environment.
- Online ranked modes allow players to gradually climb skill levels.
Rocket League’s combination of casual fun and competitive depth makes it ideal for beginners.
2. Fortnite
Fortnite is known for its accessibility and vibrant community, blending shooting, building, and strategy.
Why It’s Good for New Players:
- Large, supportive community and abundant tutorials.
- Creative mode allows players to practice building and combat without pressure.
- Cross-platform play enables friends to team up regardless of device.
Competitive Scene:
- Fortnite World Cup and online tournaments provide aspirational goals.
- Frequent updates and limited-time modes keep gameplay fresh and engaging.
Beginners can enjoy casual play while gradually developing competitive skills.
3. League of Legends (LoL)
League of Legends is a popular MOBA that can seem intimidating at first but offers structured gameplay and tutorials to ease new players into the competitive scene.
Why It’s Good for New Players:
- Free-to-play with a guided learning curve.
- Practice modes and beginner-friendly champions simplify early gameplay.
- Large online community and countless guides for strategy and mechanics.
Competitive Scene:
- Ranked ladder allows gradual skill progression.
- Regional leagues (LCS, LEC, LCK) inspire aspiring players.
LoL teaches teamwork, strategy, and game sense, making it rewarding for beginners willing to learn.
4. Valorant
Valorant, Riot Games’ tactical shooter, offers an entry point for players who enjoy precision and strategy but want a forgiving learning curve compared to other FPS titles.
Why It’s Good for New Players:
- Clear objective-based gameplay with simple goals: plant or defuse the spike.
- Agent abilities introduce strategy without overwhelming beginners.
- Strong tutorial system and practice range to develop aim and movement.
Competitive Scene:
- Ranked modes allow gradual improvement.
- Valorant Champions Tour provides a professional esports pathway.
Valorant rewards consistent improvement and teamwork, making it approachable for newcomers.
5. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a fighting game that balances casual fun with competitive depth.
Why It’s Good for New Players:
- Easy-to-learn controls and forgiving mechanics for casual play.
- Local and online multiplayer modes encourage practice.
- Characters with varied playstyles allow players to find what suits them best.
Competitive Scene:
- Tournaments range from local events to EVO.
- Community-driven competitive scene encourages mentorship and skill development.
Smash Ultimate is perfect for beginners who want to combine casual fun with competitive growth.
6. FIFA / eFootball
Sports simulation games like FIFA and eFootball are great for players familiar with real-world sports.
Why It’s Good for New Players:
- Familiar rules make it easy to understand gameplay.
- Tutorials and practice modes help improve mechanics and strategies.
- Quick matches and online play provide instant feedback.
Competitive Scene:
- FIFA eWorld Cup and Pro Clubs modes offer pathways to esports.
- Online ranked seasons let new players measure improvement over time.
Sports simulations combine accessibility with skill-based competition, ideal for beginners.
7. CS:GO (Counter-Strike: Global Offensive)
CS:GO is a tactical FPS known for precision and teamwork. While challenging at the highest levels, it provides a gradual learning curve for new players.
Why It’s Good for New Players:
- Basic mechanics are easy to grasp: aim, shoot, and plant/defuse bombs.
- Casual game modes and community servers allow stress-free practice.
- Tutorials and offline bots help newcomers practice before entering competitive matches.
Competitive Scene:
- Ranked matches and local tournaments provide clear progression.
- International events like Majors inspire newcomers to aim higher.
CS:GO balances approachability and long-term skill growth.
8. Hearthstone
Hearthstone, Blizzard’s card game, is accessible to new players while offering deep strategic gameplay.
Why It’s Good for New Players:
- Free-to-play with tutorials and practice modes.
- Simple card mechanics but layered strategy rewards learning.
- Short matches allow beginners to practice efficiently.
Competitive Scene:
- Hearthstone Grandmasters and Masters Tour provide professional opportunities.
- Online ranked ladder allows gradual skill improvement.
Hearthstone is ideal for players who enjoy strategy and planning without reflex-intensive gameplay.
9. Apex Legends
Apex Legends is a battle royale that blends shooter mechanics with teamwork and character abilities.
Why It’s Good for New Players:
- Diverse characters with unique abilities let players find their preferred style.
- Tutorial modes and casual matches provide a low-pressure learning environment.
- Cross-platform play allows beginners to team up with friends.
Competitive Scene:
- Apex Legends Global Series hosts tournaments with significant prizes.
- Ranked mode allows progression and skill tracking.
Apex Legends is beginner-friendly while still offering depth for competitive players.
10. Overwatch 2
Overwatch 2 combines team-based shooters with hero abilities, rewarding strategy and communication.
Why It’s Good for New Players:
- Beginner-friendly tutorials and easy-to-learn heroes.
- Emphasis on teamwork reduces pressure on individual performance.
- Casual modes allow exploration before entering ranked play.
Competitive Scene:
- Overwatch League showcases professional competition.
- Ranked modes help players gradually improve while learning team dynamics.
Overwatch 2’s focus on team play and hero diversity makes it accessible for newcomers.
Tips for New Players Entering Esports
- Start with Casual Play: Learn mechanics and strategies in non-ranked modes.
- Practice Consistently: Short daily sessions improve reflexes, aim, or strategy.
- Watch Professionals: Study gameplay from top players to understand decision-making.
- Join Communities: Forums, Discords, and local clubs provide advice and support.
- Focus on One Game: Mastery in one title is more effective than spreading yourself thin.
Conclusion
Starting in esports doesn’t require jumping straight into the most complex or competitive games. Titles like Rocket League, Fortnite, and FIFA provide accessible gameplay with a clear path to improvement. Meanwhile, games like Valorant, CS:GO, and League of Legends offer deeper competitive experiences as new players grow.
The key for beginners is to pick a game they enjoy, focus on consistent improvement, and engage with the community. With dedication, new players can progress from casual matches to competitive tournaments, turning their passion for gaming into a rewarding esports journey.
