Lee K. Farquhar is associate professor of journalism and sports media.Ryan Rogers is an independent researcher.

• Introduction: Esports MotivationsChapter 1: Gamers…They’re Just Like Us!! A Uses and Gratifications Approach to Understanding the Parasocial Relationships between Esports Competitors and their FansChapter 2: Development of a Paying Motivation Scale for Esports ConsumptionChapter 3: The Rules of Engagement: Exploring Regulatory Influences on SpectatorshipChapter 4: Gambling in Esports: Its Rise and ImpactChapter 5: Esports Motivations through Gaming History and Technological DevelopmentChapter 6: Multiplayer Support: Applying Elements of the Dual Social Support Model to EsportsChapter 7: Collegiate Esports: Pedagogy, Concerns, and Connection During the COVID CrisisChapter 8: Self-determination Theory and Achievement Goal Theory in EsportsChapter 9: In the Words of Gamers: The Mental Health Gratifications and Consequences of Video Games

Despite setbacks, esports and video game activities—with more than three billion estimated players—are more popular than ever. Expert examinations of topics including management, marketing, consumer behavior, legal, financial, gambling, and health and wellness are all needed, and this edited volume is timely and perfectly situated to uncover insights and nuances of the issues facing the video gaming and esports industry.