Marketers: Check out these 5 esports and gamer innovations and trends

[Editor's note: This feature is part of the SupplySide Supplement Journal digital magazine, "Finding the flow in your esports formulations." The issue covers ingredient science, formulation ideas, business strategies and a supplier directory. Download the free digital magazine here — your toolbox for better business.]

Esports continues to be a burgeoning area of opportunity for dietary supplement brands, as esports participants and high-level individual gamers are increasingly seeking ways to improve aspects of their health to enhance gaming performance and endurance. 

According to a recent industry report, the global esports market was valued at just over $1.38 billion in 2022. Additionally, the esports industry’s global market revenue was forecast to rise to as much as $1.87 billion in 2025. 

As the overall esports market continues to progress, dietary supplement brands have been carving an innovative niche within the space to develop and position nutritional products aiming to support the primary health needs most associated with professional and high-level gaming. These health benefit targets include support for stress and anxiety reduction, sustained energy, vision health, and cognitive functions such as focus and mental clarity. 

Related:Finding the flow in your esports formulations – digital magazine

In order for brands to differentiate themselves, they can consider a number of innovative ingredients and product development trends, as well as important marketing and brand positioning elements. 

Innovation and ingredient trends 

For brands developing and formulating supplement products designed to support the range of health needs of professional esports participants and high-level gamers, a number of excellent ingredients can help products stand out in this niche category. These trends highlight the importance of a holistic approach to supplement new product development, addressing the multifaceted needs of esports athletes for optimal performance and well-being to help gamers perform at their best and maintain their health over time. 

Cognitive enhancement 

To help meet the high cognitive demands of gaming, a strong focus is on products that boost mental clarity, memory, reaction speed and focus. Nootropics and other brain-boosting ingredients such as alpha-GPC (glycerylphosphorylcholine), Bacopa monnieri and lion’s mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) are some of the most often used supplements to support these cognitive functions. Other important ingredient staples are uridine monophosphate, phosphatidylserine (PS) and Ginkgo biloba. 

Related:A perfect 10: The science behind esports supplements

Additionally, ingredients that stimulate brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), like 7,8-dihydroxyflavone, are gaining popularity. BDNF is crucial for neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt and grow, which is paramount for learning and memory. BDNF plays a critical role in supporting the growth, maintenance and survival of neurons. It enhances synaptic plasticity, which is critical for learning and memory formation. High BDNF levels are associated with improved cognitive functions and overall brain health. This support is indispensable for the mental demands placed on gamers, who need strong cognitive function to excel in areas such as visuospatial skills, spatial orientation, memory, strategic planning and fine motor skills. 

Stress and anxiety reduction 

Supplements that help manage stress and promote mental well-being are gaining traction in supporting the mood and mental health needs of gaming participants. Innovative and theoretical ingredients are being explored to offer unique benefits. Some novel ingredients include: (gamma-aminobutyric acid), mucuna extract, 5-HTP (hydroxytryptophan), agmatine and L-tyrosine for neurotransmitter support; B vitamins, magnesium, choline and inositol for nervous system health; and nonpsychoactive cannabinoids like CBD and specific terpenes such as limonene and beta-caryophyllene. 

Sustained energy 

Increasing importance is being placed on supplements that maintain energy levels and proper hydration during long gaming sessions. Electrolyte blends and energy boosters such as L-theanine and caffeine combinations — as well as whole food sources of caffeine — are key for providing sustained energy release. 

Some of the whole food sources of caffeine that can be explored for energy-boosting esports supplement products include guarana (Paullinia cupana), guayusa (Ilex guayusa), yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis), matcha (Camellia sinensis) and coffee bean extract. Also, paraxanthine, theobromine, theophylline, theaflavin and chlorogenic acid are compounds that provide a smooth energy release and cognitive enhancement without the jitters. 

Physical health maintenance 

Addressing support to counter the sedentary nature of gaming with products that promote muscle health and prevent atrophy is vital. Protein supplements and nutrient-dense “super greens” powders such as those containing spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) and chlorella provide a convenient way to add essential nutrients. These products can help maintain overall physical health and prevent the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle, such as muscle atrophy and poor circulation. 

Eye health support 

With prolonged screen time being a major aspect of gaming and esports, supplements that protect eye health are continuing to gain traction in the category. Ingredients like lutein, zeaxanthin, meso-zeaxanthin, astaxanthin, omega-3 fatty acids and bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) extract help protect against blue light damage, reduce eye strain and support overall visual performance. Maintaining eye health is critical for gamers to ensure long-term vision clarity and comfort.