When it comes to shooters, few names stand as tall as Call of Duty. As one of the most iconic franchises in gaming history, it has built a massive following and an equally legendary competitive scene. The Call of Duty League (CDL) features some of the best players in the world, and betting on these high-stakes matches is a great way to add even more excitement.
On this page, we’ll dive into Call of Duty betting in 2024, how you can bet on this storied franchise, and the different types of wagers you can make.
Call of Duty Basics
Call of Duty (CoD) has been a staple of the gaming world since its launch in 2003, evolving from a World War II-themed shooter into a modern-day behemoth with numerous iterations, including Modern Warfare, Black Ops, and the Warzone battle royale mode. The game’s competitive scene revolves around the Call of Duty League (CDL), where teams like OpTic Texas, Atlanta FaZe, and Los Angeles Thieves battle it out in intense matches featuring multiple game modes.
The main game modes in the CDL include:
- Search and Destroy (SnD): A tactical, round-based mode where teams take turns attacking or defending bomb sites. With no respawns, strategy and teamwork are crucial.
- Hardpoint: Teams fight to control a rotating “hardpoint” area on the map. Points are awarded for holding the hardpoint, leading to fast-paced action and strategic positioning.
- Control: A hybrid mode combining elements of both SnD and Hardpoint, where teams alternate between attacking or defending two designated zones. Each team has a limited number of lives, adding an extra layer of tactical depth.
Understanding Call of Duty Odds
Betting odds for Call of Duty work similarly to other esports, often using the American odds format. For example, if OpTic Texas has odds of -150 to win a match against LA Thieves, a $150 bet would net you $100 if OpTic Texas wins. Conversely, if LA Thieves are the underdogs at +200, a $100 bet would win you $200 if they pull off the upset.
This is basically the same as any other major American sport like the NBA and NFL, and should be no trouble for any bettors.
What are the Different Types of Bets you can Make on Call of Duty?
While Call of Duty betting may not have as many intricate options for betting picks as traditional sports, there are still plenty of ways to bet and enjoy the action. Here are the most common types you can expect to find on popular Call of Duty esports betting apps.
Tournament/Match/Map Winner
Betting on the winner of a tournament, match, or individual map is the bread and butter of Call of Duty betting. For tournaments, you’re predicting which team will come out on top overall, like betting on Atlanta FaZe to win the CDL Championship.
For match winner bets, you’re picking the winner of a single series, while map winner bets let you bet on who will take a specific map within that series. It’s a great bet if you know a team’s strengths on certain maps like Raid or Slums.
Over/Under Map Totals
Over/under bets are great if you want to wager on the length of a series. Instead of predicting the winner, you bet on whether a match will go over or under a specific number of maps played. In a best-of-five series, you might bet on the match ending in three maps (a 3-0 sweep) or going all the way to five.
This bet type is ideal when you anticipate a tight contest or a dominant performance by one team.
First Blood
First Blood bets focus on which team or player will secure the first kill in a given round. This is particularly thrilling in game modes like Search and Destroy, where the first kill can set the tone for the round. For example, betting on a player like Shotzzy, known for his aggressive style, to get the first kill might give you an edge.
It’s truly an adrenaline-packed wager, especially if you’re familiar with the playstyles of different players.
Kills
This type of bet focuses on which player or team will get the most kills in a match. It doesn’t matter if the player wins the match or not – it’s all about the frag count. Players like Simp and Dashy are known for their high-kill games, so betting on them to have the highest kill count could be a solid move.
Daily Fantasy
Daily Fantasy Call of Duty lets you draft a team of pro players, and you earn points based on their performance. It’s all about knowing who’s hot and who’s not. For example, if Scump is consistently putting up high numbers in Hardpoint, you’d want him on your fantasy team. Sites like DraftKings offer daily fantasy leagues where you can compete against others for cash prizes, adding another layer of fun to your Call of Duty experience.
Call of Duty Betting Tips and Strategies
Now that you have the basics down, it’s time to lock in. Want to up your game in Call of Duty esports betting? Here are some tips that’ll give you a leg up whether you’re making prop bets or playing daily fantasy:
Play the Game Yourself
Even if you’re not aiming to go pro, jumping into a few matches can give you valuable insights into how Call of Duty plays. Get familiar with the mechanics of game modes like Hardpoint, Search and Destroy, and Control.
Understanding how maps work, which weapons are favored, and how teams typically approach objectives will help you anticipate in-game strategies and make better-informed bets.
Be Ready for Yearly Meta Shifts
Call of Duty evolves with each yearly release, which means the meta (the dominant strategies and tactics) can shift significantly. What worked in “Modern Warfare” might not fly in “Black Ops Cold War.” Pay attention to changes like weapon balancing, new maps, and game mode adjustments that can affect team strategies.
If a new map favors snipers, you might want to back teams with standout players like Octane, who excel with long-range weapons.
Check the Stats
The Call of Duty League provides loads of stats that are publicly available, covering everything from K/D ratios to game mode-specific stats like Hardpoint time and SnD plants. By diving into these numbers, you can get a better sense of which teams or players are on a hot streak or might be struggling.
This data helps you identify trends and spot opportunities that others might miss, giving you an edge when placing your bets.
Where to Bet on Call of Duty
When it comes to betting on Call of Duty, it’s crucial to choose reputable and licensed sites that ensure your money and information are safe. We’ve vetted a few top options for you:
- Bet365 is a solid choice for traditional Call of Duty betting, offering a range of odds and markets on major tournaments.
- DraftKings is the go-to for fantasy Call of Duty, featuring a vibrant community and daily pools where you can draft your favorite players and compete for cash prizes.
For more details, check out our guide to the best esports betting sites.
The Bottom Line on Call of Duty Betting
Call of Duty betting offers an exciting way to engage with one of the most iconic shooter franchises. Whether you prefer traditional betting or fantasy leagues, there are plenty of options to explore. Just remember to bet responsibly, choose reputable sites, and enjoy the ride!
Call of Duty Betting Frequently Asked Questions
Thanks for reading our page on Call of Duty betting! If you have any questions about what esports betting sites offer the best Call of Duty betting options, where you can win real money betting on Call of Duty, or where Call of Duty betting is legal, take a moment to go through the FAQ section below and find the answer you’re looking for.
What Esports Betting Sites Offer Call of Duty Betting?
If you’re looking to bet on Call of Duty, several top-tier esports betting sites have you covered. Bet365 is a fantastic option for traditional bets on matches and tournaments, offering great odds and a variety of markets. For fantasy fans, DraftKings is a standout with its thriving daily fantasy Call of Duty leagues. These sites are vetted and licensed, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Can You Win Real Money Betting on Call of Duty?
Absolutely! Betting on Call of Duty can lead to real money winnings if you’ve done your homework and understand the teams, players, and game meta. It’s all about placing smart bets and leveraging your knowledge of the game. However, keep in mind that it’s still gambling, so it’s wise to bet responsibly and not spend more than you can afford to lose.
Is Call of Duty Betting Legal in the USA?
Yes, but it’s crucial to stick to regulated and licensed sportsbooks that offer esports betting. In the USA, betting laws vary by state, so ensure you’re using a site that’s compliant with local regulations. While offshore sites might be tempting, sticking to reputable, US-regulated platforms is the safest way to enjoy Call of Duty betting.