Esports Careers Gain Global Acceptance as Demand for Education Pathways Rises, Says Logitech G Study
A new global survey commissioned by Logitech and its gaming division Logitech G suggests that esports and professional gaming are steadily becoming more accepted as viable career options around the world.
According to the Logitech G PRO Series Survey released on May 13, nearly 65% of respondents worldwide believe there should be structured education and career pathways for people looking to enter the esports and gaming industry. The findings point toward growing public support for esports-focused university programs, coaching systems, and specialist courses aimed at developing future professionals.
The study also found that more than half of participants globally now view professional gaming as a legitimate profession, reflecting the continued rise of esports as both an entertainment sector and career ecosystem.
Younger Generations Driving Esports Acceptance
The survey highlighted a major generational divide when it comes to professional gaming careers.
Around 67% of Gen Z respondents and 60% of Millennials agreed that esports can be considered a legitimate profession. However, acceptance was significantly lower among older generations, with only 37% of Baby Boomers supporting the idea.
Regional trends also showed how differently esports is perceived around the world. In China, support for professional gaming among older audiences was considerably higher compared to several European countries, showing how some regions are embracing esports at a faster pace.
Esports Still Battling Traditional Perceptions
While esports continues to grow commercially and culturally, the industry still faces challenges in gaining mainstream respect compared to conventional professions like healthcare, law, engineering, and education.
The report noted that professional gaming currently ranks similarly to careers in entertainment and motorsports in terms of perceived respectability.
Parental support also remains limited, especially among older generations. Many respondents still view gaming primarily as a hobby rather than a stable profession, despite the rise of esports organizations, leagues, sponsorships, and international tournaments.
However, attitudes are changing. Around 40% of respondents believe professional gaming is far more aspirational today compared to a decade ago, reflecting the rapid expansion of the esports ecosystem globally.
Financial Risks and Lack of Structure Remain Key Challenges
The survey identified financial uncertainty, industry competitiveness, and lack of societal support as the biggest barriers for aspiring esports professionals.
Respondents also raised concerns about long-term career stability and the absence of formal systems that guide players toward sustainable opportunities in gaming and esports.
At the same time, recognition for the physical and mental demands of competitive gaming continues to rise. A majority of respondents acknowledged the intense discipline, training hours, and performance pressure required at the professional level.
Calls for Esports Education Continue to Grow
One of the strongest takeaways from the study was the growing support for structured esports education.
Nearly half of respondents worldwide believe schools should introduce esports-related classes alongside traditional sports programs. Support for esports integration in education was particularly strong in countries like China, Switzerland, and the United States.
Globally, 65% of participants said universities, colleges, and specialized institutions should create official pathways for careers in esports and gaming.
The study also suggested that stronger media representation, professional training infrastructure, and better transparency around esports careers could help improve public perception of the industry.
IFeS President Rajkumar Sharma on the Future of Esports Careers
Reacting to the findings of the survey, Rajkumar Sharma, President of the International Federation of Esports (IFeS), said the results reflect the direction in which the global esports industry is rapidly moving.
“Esports is no longer just about playing games professionally. Today, the industry offers opportunities across event management, broadcasting, coaching, production, content creation, technology, marketing, and many other sectors,” Sharma said.
He further added that structured education and career pathways will play a major role in shaping the future of esports globally.
“Young people are passionate about esports, but there is still a need for proper guidance, infrastructure, and educational support systems. Creating official pathways through schools, colleges, and esports programs can help transform gaming from a passion into a sustainable profession,” he stated.
Sharma also emphasized that organizations, governments, educational institutions, and industry stakeholders must work together to build a stronger ecosystem for future esports talent.
“As esports continues to grow worldwide, the focus should now shift toward long-term development, skill-building, and creating opportunities beyond competitive play. The future of esports will depend on how well we prepare the next generation for the industry,” he added.
As the esports ecosystem continues evolving globally, industry leaders believe education, infrastructure, and mainstream acceptance will be key factors in shaping the next phase of competitive gaming.