Which principles guide esports?

As members of the global video games and esports community (including the owners and publishers of the intellectual property underlying esports), we created these guiding principles of engagement in an effort to promote esports that are fun, fair, and enjoyed by players around the world in an open and inclusive environment. We support these principles and encourage all esports stakeholders to do the same.

These core principles were developed in a collaborative effort and form a set of values applicable in all aspects of the global esports environments: safety and well-being, integrity and fair play, respect and diversity, and positive and enriching game play.

Through mutual respect, understanding, and purpose, we strive to foster community that is responsible, welcoming, engaging, and of course, fun. By promoting a safe, fair, and inclusive esports environment, all members of the esports ecosystem benefit from sportsmanship, camaraderie, and other positive values that our industry actively promotes.

Principle 1: SAFETY AND WELL-BEING

All esports community members deserve to participate in and enjoy esports in safe spaces and to be free from threats and acts of violence and from language or behavior that makes people feel threatened or harassed.

Principle 2: INTEGRITY AND FAIR PLAY

Cheating, hacking, or otherwise engaging in disreputable, deceitful, or dishonest behavior detracts from the experience of others, unfairly advantages teams and players, and tarnishes the legitimacy of esports.

Principle 3: RESPECT AND DIVERSITY

Esports promotes a spirit of healthy competition. Whether in person or online, all members of the esports community should demonstrate respect and courtesy to others, including teammates, opponents, game officials, organizers, and spectators. Esports is truly global and brings together players from different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. We believe the broad and diverse player base of esports contributes to its success. We support an open, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all, no matter one’s gender identity, age, ability, race, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation.

Principle 4: POSITIVE AND ENRICHING GAME PLAY

Esports can help build self-confidence and sportsmanship and boost interpersonal communication and teamwork skills. Esports brings players and fans together to problem solve through strategic play, collaboration, and critical thinking. Participation in esports can also lead to the development of new and lasting friendships among teammates, competitors, and members of the broader esports community.

Contact us

If your organisation would be interested in joining Video Games Europe Esports or if you are working or reporting on policy relating to the esports sector or would like information relating to esports, please contact us at: