In recent years, virtual sports have emerged as the go-to alternative to fill in the void between major leagues of world-class sports. They have captivated the public with their realistic 3D graphics, accessibility, and wide range of betting options. In what follows, we define what virtual sports are, the type of disciplines they cover, as well as the leading developers.
Virtual sports vs eSports: was the difference?
To understand what virtual sports are, it is important to understand what they are not. As their names are similar, virtual sports can be confused with eSports (short for electronic sports). However, virtual sports simulate traditional sports events using 3D computer-generated graphics and algorithms, allowing players to bet on the outcomes of these simulated matches. In contrast, eSports involve competitive video gaming between human players, often in organized tournaments across various video game titles.
While the two involve digital competitions, virtual sports mimic real-world sports events such as cricket, football, volleyball, and horse racing (to name a few), whereas eSports focus on skill-based gameplay within virtual environments like League of Legends (LOL), DOTA 2, Counter-Strike, and Overwatch. What’s more, virtual sports are more associated with betting and gambling activities. Although it is possible to bet on the outcome of eSport competitions, there is more emphasis on competitiveness and spectatorship.
Virtual sports should not be confused with VR (virtual reality) sports either. The latter allows players to actually immerse themselves in the sport of their choice through VR gadgets. It is, therefore, a more individualized and game-centric experience with relatively low stakes.
Types of virtual sports
Developers have replicated the most popular sports worldwide, such as cricket, football, basketball, horse racing, and several others.
Cricket
Virtual cricket games offer simulations of cricket matches, enabling players to bet on match results, player performances, and other related outcomes. These simulations seek to replicate the nuances of the “gentleman’s sport”, with realistic player animations, pitch conditions, and match dynamics.
Football (soccer)
Being the world’s most followed sports, it comes as no surprise that virtual sports platforms commonly feature simulated football or soccer matches. It is possible to choose from a range of betting options, including predicting the final score, the number of goals scored, or even specific events within the match, such as the first goal scorer or the number of corners.
Basketball
Virtual basketball recreates the fast-paced action and strategic gameplay of real basketball, with realistic player movements and tactics. Players can bet on various aspects of the game, including the final score, the winning team, or individual player performances like points scored rebounds, or assists.
Horse racing
Digital horse racing events enable players to wager on races with computer-generated horses and jockeys. Players can bet on the race’s winner, the order of finish, or more specific horse-related events like the fastest lap time or the number of lengths ahead.
In addition to the aforementioned, there are several other virtual sports available, including cycling, motor racing, tennis, speedway, darts, and golf.
Fantasy leagues and contests
Another important element of virtual sports are fantasy leagues and contests. It is, essentially, a type of online gambling where the user is able to assemble a virtual team of real-life players according to their preferences. The team will then compete against other player-created teams. In actuality, there are numerous fantasy sports games, with the most popular ones being cricket, football, basketball, baseball, and hockey.
In order to participate in fantasy sports competitions, it is necessary to sign up for a specialized betting site. Once this is done, the user can either join a public league or create his or her own private league. Afterward, they will be able to pick whoever they want to be part of their time without restrictions.
Leading virtual sports developers
Virtual sports wouldn’t be possible without the developers behind them. Nowadays, several virtual sports developers are focusing on providing users with quality graphics, localized automated commentary, customizable interfaces, and multi-currency betting. Yet, some of the most renowned developers to date are the following:
- Golden Race. The prominent developer supplies both casino games and virtual sports options, including 3D football action, horse races, basketball, and pre-recorded. Among its notable products are Football Leagues, featuring fictional teams and match schedules, and Competitions such as Euro Champions and Copa Libertadores tournaments.
- 1×2 Network. Established in 2002, 1×2 Network has evolved into a leading developer of virtual sports games, with a strong presence in the UK and global markets. Among its notable products are Virtual Champions, Virtual Football Pro, Virtual Europa League, and Virtual World Cup.
- Jackpot Software. Based in Georgia, Atlanta, Jackpot Software serves casinos primarily in the USA and Latin America. Among its top virtual sports options are V Football League, Horse Racing, and V Football.
- Kiron Interactive. Finally, Kiron is another leading virtual sports provider with a vast library that includes football, racing, skating, table tennis, badminton, and more. Popular offerings from Kiron include Fast League Football, allowing betting on single matches and league formats throughout the day.
