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How to Successfully Compete in an Esports Tournament in Bristol

Esports, or competitive video gaming, has become a global phenomenon over the past decade, captivating millions of fans and players worldwide. The rapid growth of esports has led to the establishment of numerous tournaments and leagues, offering players the chance to showcase their skills and compete for prizes. 

Bristol has emerged as a hotspot for esports enthusiasts, hosting various tournaments and events throughout the year. If you’re an aspiring gamer looking to make a name for yourself in the esports scene, competing in a tournament could be your gateway to success. 

This article will guide you through the essential steps to prepare and compete effectively in an esports tournament in Bristol.

 

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Esports Tournaments in Bristol

Esports college course students side-by-side, playing Rocket League

Bristol boasts several gaming hubs and venues that host regular esports tournaments, providing players with the chance to compete in a supportive and engaging environment. Some popular venues include Belong Bristol and Four Quarters, which offer state-of-the-art facilities for gamers.

In addition to local competitions, Bristol also hosts annual esports events that attract players and spectators from across the region. The Bristol Gaming Market is a popular event that features gaming tournaments, exhibitions, and networking opportunities for esports enthusiasts.

To successfully compete in an esports tournament in Bristol, it’s important to approach your preparation strategically. Here are five essential steps to help you get started:

 

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1) Find a Game to Focus On

Video game controllers

One of the first steps in preparing for an esports tournament is to choose a game to focus on. With so many games available, it’s important to select one that aligns with your interests and strengths.

Start by assessing your interests and skills to identify a game that you enjoy playing and have a natural aptitude for. Consider the following when making your decision:

What is your preferred genre of games? The most popular for esports are usually First-Person Shooters (FPS) or Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) but there are other genres covered like Fighting, Real Time Strategy (RTS), Racing, or even Online Card Games (OCG).

Are you a strategic thinker, a quick reflexes player, or a team-oriented gamer? Identify your strengths and choose a game that allows you to leverage them effectively. 

Lastly, a game’s popularity can be a double-edged sword. The most established esports titles will have a lot of competition to get into professionally, as well as being more difficult to stand out from the crowd when getting your brand out there. However, fresh titles can give you a head start amongst the crowd, assuming the esports scene for your game develops well, if at all.

The main takeaway from this is to focus on what you love to play and allow yourself to grow and expand from there.

Once you’ve identified a potential game, research its competitive scene to gain a better understanding of the opportunities available. Look for information about tournaments, leagues, and online communities that support the game.

 

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2) Watch and Learn from Gaming Live Streamers

Student studying esports at ACC

Many professional esports players stream their gameplay on platforms like Twitch and YouTube, providing valuable learning. Some factors to consider when selecting streamers to watch include:

Streamers who demonstrate high-level gameplay and have a deep understanding of game mechanics and strategies.

Those that provide insightful commentary and explanations during their gameplay, helping viewers understand their decision-making processes.

Hosts who actively engage with their audience and offer opportunities for viewers to ask questions and seek advice.

As you watch live streamers pay attention to their decision-making processes, positioning, and communication with teammates. Look for patterns that you can incorporate into your own gameplay. Additionally, consider joining live stream chats to ask questions and gain further insights from the streamer and the community.

 

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3) Study an Esports Course

Esports students playing together

Enroling at Access Creative College on our esports course is a great way to gain a deeper understanding of the industry and develop the skills needed to succeed in competitive gaming. Bristol offers to equip students with the knowledge and expertise required to excel. This includes game analysis, team dynamics, and event management. The course provides hands-on experience and opportunities to network with industry professionals. If Bristol is too far, we also have a range of other campuses offering a similar experience, such as Norwich, London, and Birmingham to name a few!

Our esports course includes practical components, such as organising tournaments or participating in team-based projects. Take advantage of these opportunities to gain real-world experience and develop your skills in a supportive learning environment. 

 

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4) Join an Esports Team or Start Branding Yourself

ACES Bristol

Joining an esports team is an essential step in preparing for a tournament, as it allows you to practise with other players and develop your teamwork skills. Being part of a team provides valuable support and camaraderie, helping you stay motivated and focused on your goals.

When looking for a team, it’s important to find one that matches your skill level and goals. Consider the following factors when selecting a team:

Look for a team with players who have similar skills and experience. Joining a team that is too advanced or too beginner-level can hinder your growth and development.

Make sure you share common goals and ambitions. Whether you’re looking to compete in local tournaments or pursue a professional career, finding a team with aligned objectives is crucial.

Once you’ve joined a team, participate actively in team practices and tournaments. Regular practice sessions will help you improve your skills, develop strategies, and build chemistry with your teammates. Competing in tournaments will provide valuable experience and exposure, helping you refine your gameplay and gain confidence.

If you’re looking to go out on your own, there’s no time like the present! Don’t start your streams expecting perfection the first time. It’ll take time for you to get comfortable with how the process works, the important thing is to keep going. Set yourself a schedule to keep the practice consistent.

 

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5) Look for Esports Opportunities in Your Local Area

Map on a smartphone

In addition to participating in tournaments, it’s important to explore other esports opportunities in your local area. Engaging with the local esports community can provide valuable connections and resources to support your competitive journey.

Local esports events and meetups help you to connect with other players and industry professionals. Look for events hosted by gaming venues, community organisations, and esports clubs in Bristol.

Consider volunteering or interning with local esports organisations to gain hands-on experience and build your resume. Volunteering for events, assisting with tournament organisation, or interning with esports companies can provide valuable insights into the industry and help you develop relevant skills.

Join online communities and forums dedicated to esports and gaming in Bristol. Engaging with these communities can help you stay informed about local events, opportunities, and trends. Additionally, online communities provide a platform for sharing experiences, seeking advice, and connecting with like-minded individuals.

 

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Want to Learn About Esports in Bristol?

Group of esports learners at ACC gathered around a PC

If you’re interested in learning more about esports in Bristol and want to take your skills to the next level, consider enrolling in an esports course with Access Creative College. We offer a comprehensive curriculum, helping you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the esports industry. With experienced instructors, state-of-the-art facilities, and connections to industry professionals. Apply online today and take the first step towards a successful esports career in Bristol!

Last updated on: 3rd September 2024