At some point, gaming stopped being casual… and started getting competitive.

In Episode 23 of The Midnight Release Podcast, we dive into the world of esports — from its early grassroots beginnings to the global phenomenon it is today.

We explore the evolution of competitive gaming, from early titles like Counter-Strike and StarCraft to modern arena-filling events for games like League of Legends, Call of Duty, and Rocket League. We also talk about what it’s like attending live events, meeting pro players, and experiencing the energy of esports in person.

From the rise of streaming to massive prize pools and international recognition, esports has changed gaming forever — and it’s only getting bigger.

So the question is… was it really lag? Or just a skill issue?