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Understanding Esports Game Titles for Secondary School Students
We've outline the typical game titles that have been offered internationally in the school level esports tournaments we've reviewed.
Kurt Pittman
February 23, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 3 minutes
As esports continues to grow in schools, teachers and parents may wonder: What are the most common game titles played by secondary school students? Understanding these games, their platforms, and their suitability for school esports is key to supporting student engagement.
While the exact selection of games for the Ireland Esports Schools Series will be influenced by student surveys facilitated through the school, here’s an overview of the most popular game titles played by students and the platforms they are available on.
Common Esports Game Titles for Secondary School Students
Game Title | Genre | Platform | Why It’s Popular for Schools? |
|---|---|---|---|
Rocket League | Sports / Racing | PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch | Easy to learn, team-based, no violent content |
FIFA (EA FC 24) | Sports | PlayStation, Xbox, PC | Familiarity with traditional sports, highly competitive |
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate | Fighting | Nintendo Switch | Encourages strategy, quick thinking, and reflex skills |
Fortnite (Esports Mode) | Battle Royale | PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch | Competitive with teamwork elements, customizable safe play modes |
League of Legends | MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) | PC | Highly strategic, teamwork-focused, well-established in esports |
Valorant | Tactical Shooter | PC | Emphasises team coordination and strategy |
Clash Royale | Strategy / Card-Based | Mobile | Accessible and strategic, great for quick matches |
Brawlhalla | Fighting | PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, Mobile | Fun, fast-paced, and free to play |
NBA 2K | Sports | PlayStation, Xbox, PC | Appeals to basketball fans, promotes sportsmanship |
Apex Legends | Battle Royale | PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch | Team-based shooter with unique character abilities |
Hearthstone | Card-Based Strategy | PC, Mobile | Encourages strategic thinking, accessible for all skill levels |
Overwatch 2 | Hero Shooter | PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch | Focuses on teamwork, strategy, and diverse hero playstyles |
Splatoon 3 | Team Shooter | Nintendo Switch | Non-violent, engaging, and fun for younger students |
Choosing the Right Games for Your School
Each school’s selection of games will be determined by student interest, hardware availability, and what best aligns with school values and competition structure.
Some key considerations include:
Student Preference: Teachers leading their school’s entry into the Ireland Esports Schools Series will conduct student surveys to gauge interest.
Hardware Availability: Some schools may have access to PCs, while others may primarily have consoles or mobile devices.
Game Ratings & School Policies: Some titles may require parental consent due to their content rating and/or there’s a minimum age limit set by the publisher.
How Teachers and Parents Can Support Students
Encourage Safe and Structured Play: Games chosen for school competitions should promote teamwork, strategy, and inclusivity.
Learn About the Games: Having a basic understanding of the game titles helps in supporting student participation.
Monitor Balance Between Gaming and Academics: Like traditional sports, esports should be a balanced extracurricular activity.
Next Steps for Schools
If your school is considering entering the Ireland Esports Schools Series, start by:
Surveying students to see which games interest them the most.
Reviewing available school hardware to determine which titles can be supported.
Ensuring alignment with school policies regarding game content and age ratings.
For more details on the competition and guidance on setting up your school’s esports program contact us at [email protected].