Sustainability: The Forgotten Arena of eSports Research—A Systematic Literature Review From an ESG Perspective

ABSTRACT Despite the growth of eSports, the sector faces critical challenges related to its sustainability. This research analyzes these issues from an environmental, social, and governance (ESG) perspective. This paper consists of a systematic literature review on eSports and its implications for sustainability. A total of 134 publications were selected for bibliometric analysis with VOSviewer and Bibliometrix, highlighting the most influential articles, authors, and keywords in the field to identify search trends. A content analysis further reveals current themes and trends. eSports have an environmental impact by contributing to carbon emissions and electronic waste. Socially, they influence the well‐being and social interactions of players and fans, who may face mental health issues and inclusivity barriers. Finally, governance remains fragmented, necessitating adjustments to regulatory practices and inadequate player protection. This paper emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to sustainability in eSports that encompasses renewable energy, ethical governance, and improved social support systems.