Total Maps betting is a popular betting market in esports that involves predicting whether the total number of maps played in a series will be over or under a specified line set by the bookmaker. This type of bet can be an attractive option for those who enjoy analyzing teams’ or players’ tendencies and the potential competitiveness of a match. In this article, we’ll explore Total Maps betting in esports, explain how it works, discuss its advantages and disadvantages, and provide examples to help you understand this betting option better.
Understanding Total Maps Betting in Esports
In Total Maps betting, bookmakers set a line for the total number of maps they expect to be played in a series. Bettors then wager on whether the actual number of maps played will be over or under that line.
For example, in a best-of-five series in Dota 2, the bookmaker might set the Total Maps line at 3.5. If you bet on “Over 3.5 maps,” your bet will win if the series goes to at least four maps. If you bet on “Under 3.5 maps,” your bet will win if the series ends in three maps.
Advantages of Total Maps Betting in Esports
Total Maps betting in esports offers several advantages:
- Flexibility: Total Maps betting allows you to focus on the overall competitiveness and length of a series, rather than just the outright winner.
- Opportunity for value: If you have a good understanding of the teams’ or players’ styles, map preferences, and potential for close matches, you can potentially find value in Total Maps betting markets.
- Increased excitement: Total Maps betting can add an extra level of excitement to watching a series, as you follow the progression of the maps played in relation to your bet.
Disadvantages of Total Maps Betting in Esports
However, there are also some disadvantages to consider:
- Unpredictability: The outcome of esports matches can be highly unpredictable, and unexpected results or performances can significantly impact the total number of maps played.
- Push risk: If the total number of maps played lands exactly on the bookmaker’s line, the bet may be considered a push, and your stake will be returned. This can be frustrating if you were close to winning your bet.
- Limited control: Unlike betting on a specific team to win, you have less control over the outcome of a Total Maps bet, as both teams or players contribute to the total number of maps played.
Example of a Total Maps Bet in Esports
Let’s consider an example of a Total Maps bet in esports:
- In an upcoming best-of-five Call of Duty series between Atlanta FaZe and Dallas Empire, the bookmaker sets the Total Maps line at 4.5.
- The bookmaker offers the following decimal odds:
- Over 4.5 maps: 2.20
- Under 4.5 maps: 1.65
- You believe that the series will be highly competitive and likely go to a fifth map, so you place a €50 bet on “Over 4.5 maps” at 2.20 odds.
- The series unfolds as follows: Atlanta FaZe wins the first map, Dallas Empire wins the second and third maps, and Atlanta FaZe wins the fourth and fifth maps, resulting in a total of five maps played.
- As the series went over 4.5 maps, your “Over” bet wins, and your return would be: €50 x 2.20 = €110 (including your original stake).
Conclusion
Total Maps betting is an engaging way to bet on esports series, focusing on the overall competitiveness and length of the series rather than just the outright winner. By analyzing teams’ or players’ strengths, map pools, and the potential for close matches, you can potentially find value in Total Maps betting markets and add an extra level of excitement to your esports viewing experience.
However, it’s essential to be aware of the unpredictability of esports and the potential for pushes when the total maps land exactly on the bookmaker’s line. As with all forms of gambling, it’s crucial to bet responsibly, within your means, and to approach Total Maps betting as a form of entertainment rather than a guaranteed way to make money.
By understanding the advantages and disadvantages of Total Maps betting in esports and carefully considering the teams’ or players’ tendencies and potential match outcomes, you can make more informed betting decisions and potentially enhance your overall esports betting experience.