How CS2 and FIFA Are Replacing Poker Among Young People
In recent years, e-sports such as Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) and FIFA have evolved from niche hobbies into true cultural phenomena. We are no longer just talking about computer games, but about a multi-billion-dollar industry, with professional leagues, sponsors, large audiences, and players who have become celebrities. In Belgium, this digital wave is gaining more and more ground, especially among young people who seem to be shifting their entertainment priorities. Traditional forms of gambling, such as poker or visiting casinos, are gradually losing their appeal compared to competitive gaming experiences.
Why Young People Are Losing Interest in Poker
Today’s youth are no longer attracted solely by the idea of quick winnings, but also by challenge, skill, and the sense of belonging to a global community. Instead of a poker table at a traditional Belgian casino, many choose intense CS2 matches with friends or participation in online FIFA tournaments broadcast live on Twitch. This paradigm shift raises a natural question: are we really witnessing the replacement of traditional gambling by e-sports?
Interest in poker appears to have declined, especially among the new generation of digital players. For many young Belgians, this classic card game is seen as an “outdated” activity, more associated with older generations and the atmosphere of physical casinos. Moreover, poker involves a high degree of financial risk, which no longer resonates with the preferences of today’s youth, who seek safer experiences.
At the same time, online poker—once seen as a “cool” alternative to traditional casinos—fails to deliver the same social interaction, real-time adrenaline, or sense of continuous progress that one finds in a CS2 or FIFA match. While poker remains a game of strategy and calculation, e-sports offer a far more interactive and immersive experience, enhanced by stunning graphics, live voice communication with teammates, and the opportunity to be part of a global community that is active 24/7.
The Rise of E-Sports in Belgium
More and more young people are choosing to spend their time in online competitions, replacing gambling or other traditional forms of entertainment with games like Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), EA Sports FC (formerly FIFA), or League of Legends. These titles are among the most popular among gamers thanks to their high level of competition, as well as the opportunity to progress both individually and as part of a team.
This culture of competitive gaming is fueled by numerous local initiatives. Events such as GameForce (the largest gaming fair in Belgium, held annually in Antwerp) or the Elite Series tournaments attract thousands of participants and spectators. In education, more and more universities and colleges are establishing dedicated e-sports clubs or forming official teams that participate in competitions.
Another factor in the rise of e-sports is the visibility provided by streaming platforms. This media ecosystem allows any talented and charismatic player to build a personal brand and generate steady income from subscriptions, sponsorships, or donations.
The Social and Educational Impact of E-Sports
Constant involvement in these games helps develop essential skills such as hand-eye coordination, strategic planning, quick reactions in critical situations, effective teamwork, and emotional control in tense moments. In titles like CS2 or League of Legends, victory depends on efficient communication, planning, and adaptability—skills increasingly sought after outside the digital world, including in careers in IT, management, or education.
However, the growing popularity of e-sports also comes with risks, especially if gaming is not managed in a balanced way. Among the most common challenges are screen addiction, social isolation, and imbalance between online and offline activities. Players who spend countless hours in front of their computers may end up neglecting key aspects of daily life: physical health, sleep, studies, or interpersonal relationships.
Thus, with the right framework and responsible oversight, e-sports can become a catalyst for youth development, helping them discover passions, build discipline, and integrate into constructive communities. Like any intense activity, the key lies in balance—between play and learning, between online and offline.