Esports is no longer “just gaming”. It has evolved into a global phenomenon valued at over $1.6 billion USD in 2024, with forecasts predicting continued growth in 2025 and beyond. With its own ecosystem of teams, leagues, sponsors and a dedicated international fanbase, esports is now a serious business attracting major investments from tech giants, broadcasters and even traditional sports organisations.
One of the most defining trends in 2025 is the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) across all levels of competitive gaming. From AI-powered team training and predictive match analysis to content personalisation for viewers and betting fraud detection, the influence of AI is becoming more pervasive and transformative. This is especially evident at high-stakes tournaments like PGL Major Bucharest 2025, where every decision, reaction time and strategic move can mean the difference between victory and defeat.
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Here’s a deeper dive into how AI is powering the next generation of esports, both on and off the digital battlefield.
AI in CS2 training: Realistic bots and better engagement
AI is rapidly transforming training methods in Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), making practice sessions more realistic and effective than ever. A prime example is the MLMove project by CS LAB, which developed AI-powered bots trained on over 123 hours of professional CS2 gameplay. These bots are capable of mimicking high-level player behaviour and can even adapt to different team playstyles, offering players a chance to hone their reflexes, decision-making and team coordination in simulated tournament-like conditions.
By integrating machine learning into bot design, projects like MLMove bring a new level of realism to CS2 training, bridging the gap between casual scrims and pro-level competition.
Real-time analytics, heat maps and strategy simulations
AI-powered tools are revolutionising how coaches and analysts interpret matches in Counter-Strike 2 (CS2). By tracking player positions, rotations and high-action zones, these tools can generate real-time heat maps and behavioural models, offering deep insights as the match unfolds. Platforms like BO3.gg are at the forefront, providing advanced CS2 match analytics that help teams adjust their tactics on the fly.
In high-stakes competitions where outcomes are decided in milliseconds, the ability to read and react to live data can be the ultimate game-changer.
Fighting cheating with AI: Security for high-stakes tournaments
Beyond training and strategy, AI is also strengthening the backbone of Counter-Strike 2’s competitive integrity. With millions at stake and growing interest from global betting markets, ensuring fair play has never been more crucial. Companies like Oddin.gg are leading the charge with AI-driven systems designed to detect betting irregularities and in-game anomalies.
These tools go beyond surface-level checks, leveraging machine learning algorithms to flag suspicious patterns, analyse gameplay telemetry and cross-reference betting data in real-time. Whether it’s an unexpected spike in bets or gameplay that doesn’t align with a player’s usual performance, AI helps identify red flags that might otherwise slip past human observers.
This tech is especially vital at premier events like the PGL Major in Bucharest, where the combination of high visibility and massive prize pools makes them a prime target for bad actors. By introducing AI into the mix, organisers and regulators are better equipped to protect the integrity of the game and the trust of its global fanbase.
AI for better fan experiences
AI is also transforming how matches are broadcast and experienced, enhancing fan engagement and broadening accessibility. Through the use of advanced natural language models, AI can now automatically generate live commentary in real time, adjusting it to suit different languages, regions and cultural preferences. This innovative approach is helping to deliver a more personalised viewing experience for global audiences, making sports more inclusive and engaging. Major sports projects such as Cycling Central Intelligence by Warner Bros. Discovery and AWS already use this model to support broadcasters with real-time data on players, events and stats. This dynamic, data-driven commentary enhances the viewing experience, offering deeper insights into the action. The same model is now being extended to esports coverage, where fast-paced, digital-first games require rapid and accurate reporting. AI-powered solutions are transforming how fans interact with their favourite sports and games, ensuring they have access to more comprehensive, real-time information while enjoying an immersive, tailored experience..
Using AI against fraud to bring fairness in esports betting
AI is transforming fraud detection across industries, with significant advancements in online betting and esports. The AI in Fraud Detection Market, valued at USD 12.1 billion in 2023, is projected to grow to USD 108.3 billion by 2033, reflecting a CAGR of 24.50%. Leveraging machine learning and neural networks, AI systems analyse vast amounts of data to detect suspicious activity, flag fraud in real time and adjust betting odds dynamically based on gameplay and betting patterns. These AI-driven tools are particularly effective in the fast-paced world of esports, where traditional fraud prevention methods often fail.
Platforms like 1xBet are already harnessing AI to enhance user experience by offering more accurate predictions, faster bet settlements and personalised betting suggestions. This level of personalisation has been shown to improve customer retention significantly. Additionally, AI is playing a crucial role in reinforcing trust and integrity within the esports community by assisting regulatory bodies like the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) in monitoring betting behaviours and preventing match-fixing. With AI systems evolving to meet new challenges, these tools are helping reduce fraud and financial losses, ultimately strengthening consumer confidence in digital betting environments.
AI is no longer just a support tool – it’s becoming the engine driving the evolution of esports. It powers smarter training, real-time decisions, stronger fan experiences and greater fairness across tournaments and platforms. As global competitions grow more intense, AI will continue to play a decisive role – quietly running behind the scenes, but powering the future of gaming.