As one of the world’s most established and competitive esports, StarCraft II has long offered thrilling professional matchups for enthusiasts. With fame stemming originally from groundbreaking predecessor StarCraft, this iconic real-time strategy (RTS) franchise holds a special place in gaming lore. For newcomers, its intricate gameplay mechanics and betting markets can seem overwhelming initially. But by grasping some fundamental concepts, amateur punters can start handicapping StarCraft II contests.
Gameplay and Tournaments
Played one-on-one, competitors start on equal footing gathering resources to construct bases and armies. Diverse playable races feature unique units and abilities used battling opponents. Top players demonstrate immense skill micromanaging battles across various terrain while executing precise build orders and strategies. Premier tournaments like the World Championship Series, Intel Extreme Masters and Dreamhack events comprise the highest levels of competition.
Betting Markets
Bookmakers install pre-match odds on upcoming fixture winners, similar to traditional sports. Sides are labelled simply “Team 1” and “Team 2” without identifying competitors since play occurs anonymously to prevent bias. Additional markets exist on correct map scores, handicaps, winning margins, series lengths and specials. Live betting options become available once action commences too.
Factors Influencing Odds
Several key indicators drive market prices, including:
- Player rankings and histories: Top stars hold steeper odds while significant mismatches see heavy favourites and underdogs. Recent results between competitors signal form expectations.
- Preferred races: Elite players mastering multiple races have advantages surprising specific race mains.
- Map pool and veto process: Some specialize on certain maps better than others. The veto process impacting map choices therefore sways markets.
- Tournament format: More maps/games reduce underdog risk in series.
Using these factors, punters can determine whether odds appropriately reflect expectations.
Betting Strategy Tips
Success betting StarCraft requires understanding key strategy components:
- Scout opponents: Analyze recent games to detect strengths/weaknesses and predict strategic choices based on tech trees.
- Identify optimal win conditions: Strong production macro and micro outmaneuvering foes provides multiple victory paths to assess likelihoods for.
- Wager smaller stakes: StarCraft’s volatility between seasoned players means big upsets always possible. Don’t overextend betting banks.
- Hedge bets: Consider handicaps/spread options allowing winners even if the player choice incorrect.
