Motivational and Social Factors Influencing Career Choices of E-athletes in Hungary

Background and Aims More and more young video game players in Hungary are choosing to take their leisure activities for fun to a higher level and try the professional level of video gaming. Nowadays, it is being seen as a potential career path similar to traditional sports. This raises the question of what might spur young people in particular to become esports players? Our aim was to explore, through content analysis of available qualitative data, the motivational and social factors behind an esports career in Hungary, as well as the life path and its characteristics behind becoming an esports player. Method Data from interviews (N = 30) and focus group discussions (N = 15) were analysed using content analysis, based on a set of predefined codes and conducted by three independent coders. Results The content analysis revealed that participants generally reported receiving consistent peer support in relation to their esports careers. In addition, it was found that a sense of competence, coupled with the opportunity to compete, was a motivating force for them. On the other hand, financial challenges, the negative perception of esports in general and the shortcomings of the national esports sector had a negative impact on the commitment to the activity. Conclusion These results help to better understand the characteristics of esports in the country, and provide insights into the factors that support their careers and the barriers that esports players face in their career path.