eSport dramas have surged in popularity, especially in China, captivating audiences with their blend of competition, romance, and personal growth. In 2021, several standout Chinese dramas focused on the eSport scene, delivering compelling storylines and memorable characters. Let's dive into some of the best Chinese eSport dramas from 2021 that you absolutely need to watch.

1. Falling Into Your Smile

Falling Into Your Smile is arguably one of the most popular eSport dramas of 2021. This drama follows the story of Tong Yao, played by Cheng Xiao, who becomes the first female professional player in the Chinese League of Legends league. Her journey is filled with challenges as she navigates the male-dominated world of professional gaming, striving to prove her worth and break stereotypes. The drama captures the intense training, teamwork, and strategic thinking required to succeed in eSports.

The drama shines in its portrayal of the eSport environment. The production team invested significantly in recreating the atmosphere of professional gaming competitions, ensuring that the matches felt authentic and exciting. The camaraderie among the team members is another highlight, showcasing the importance of trust and cooperation in achieving victory. The romantic subplot between Tong Yao and the team captain, Lu Si Cheng, played by Xu Kai, adds an extra layer of entertainment, making it appealing to a broader audience. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their interactions provide both comedic relief and heartwarming moments.

Falling Into Your Smile also addresses the challenges faced by female gamers in the eSports industry. Tong Yao's character confronts prejudice and skepticism, highlighting the need for greater inclusivity and acceptance. Her determination to overcome these obstacles serves as an inspiration to many viewers, particularly young women who aspire to pursue careers in gaming. The drama's success can be attributed to its well-rounded characters, engaging plot, and high production values. It not only entertains but also sheds light on important issues within the eSports community, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the genre. The series masterfully balances the thrill of competition with the warmth of human relationships, making it a standout drama in the eSport genre. For those new to Chinese dramas or eSport-themed shows, Falling Into Your Smile is an excellent starting point. Its broad appeal and easy-to-follow storyline make it accessible to a wide audience, while its high production quality and compelling characters ensure that viewers remain invested throughout the series.

2. Go Go Squid 2: Dt. Appledog's Time

Go Go Squid 2: Dt. Appledog's Time, also known as Go Go Squid 2, continues the story from the popular drama Go Go Squid!. While the first season focused on computer programming, the sequel shifts its focus to robot combat competitions. The drama follows Wu Bai, also known as Dt, played by Hu Yitian, and Ai Qing, also known as Appledog, played by Li Yitong, as they lead their respective teams in the world of robot fighting. Their shared dream of promoting technology and winning championships forms the core of the narrative.

The drama excels in depicting the intricacies of robot combat. The detailed designs of the robots and the intense battle sequences are visually stunning, providing viewers with a thrilling experience. The strategic elements of the competitions are also highlighted, showcasing the importance of engineering, teamwork, and quick thinking. The relationship between Wu Bai and Ai Qing is a central theme, building upon the foundation laid in the first season. Their interactions are filled with mutual respect and admiration, as they support each other in pursuing their goals. The drama explores the challenges they face as leaders, balancing their personal ambitions with the responsibilities of managing a team. Go Go Squid 2 offers a deeper dive into the technical aspects of eSports. Unlike dramas that focus solely on gaming, this series explores the engineering and innovation behind robot combat, providing viewers with a unique perspective. The combination of romance, competition, and technological advancement makes it a captivating watch. The drama also emphasizes the importance of perseverance and dedication. Wu Bai and Ai Qing face numerous obstacles, but they never give up on their dreams. Their resilience inspires their team members and motivates them to overcome challenges. This theme of determination resonates throughout the series, making it a compelling story of ambition and success. For fans of the first season, Go Go Squid 2 offers a satisfying continuation of the story, with familiar characters and new challenges. For newcomers, the drama provides an accessible introduction to the world of robot combat, with engaging storylines and high production values. The blend of romance, action, and technology makes it a standout drama in the eSport genre.

3. The King's Avatar (Anime Version)

While the live-action version of The King's Avatar gained significant popularity, the anime version offers a different perspective on the same beloved story. Released in 2021, this animated adaptation follows the journey of Ye Xiu, a legendary player in the online game Glory. After being forced to retire from his professional team, Ye Xiu starts anew as a manager at an internet cafe, determined to reclaim his former glory.

The anime captures the essence of the original story while adding its own unique flair. The animation style is vibrant and dynamic, bringing the world of Glory to life in stunning detail. The action sequences are particularly impressive, showcasing the skill and strategy involved in professional gaming. The characters are well-developed, each with their own distinct personalities and motivations. Ye Xiu's unwavering determination and strategic brilliance make him a compelling protagonist, while the supporting cast adds depth and humor to the narrative. The anime explores the themes of perseverance, teamwork, and the pursuit of passion. Ye Xiu faces numerous challenges, but he never loses sight of his goals. His dedication inspires those around him, and he forms strong bonds with his new teammates. The anime also delves into the complexities of the eSports industry, highlighting the pressures and sacrifices faced by professional gamers. The anime version of The King's Avatar offers a fresh and exciting take on a familiar story. Its high production values, engaging characters, and thrilling action sequences make it a must-watch for fans of eSports and anime alike. The animation style brings a new level of visual appeal to the series, while the core themes of perseverance and teamwork remain as relevant as ever. For those who enjoyed the live-action version, the anime provides a complementary experience, offering a different perspective on the world of Glory. For newcomers, the anime serves as an excellent introduction to the series, with its accessible storyline and captivating characters. The combination of action, humor, and heartfelt moments makes it a standout anime in the eSport genre. Whether you're a seasoned anime watcher or new to the medium, The King's Avatar anime version is sure to entertain and inspire.

4. You Are My Glory

Although not exclusively focused on eSports, You Are My Glory incorporates gaming as a significant element of its storyline. The drama follows the reunion of Yu Tu, played by Yang Yang, an aerospace engineer, and Qiao Jingjing, played by Dilraba Dilmurat, a popular actress. Their paths cross again through an online game, Honor of Kings, where Qiao Jingjing seeks to improve her gaming skills with Yu Tu's help.

The drama beautifully blends romance with the world of online gaming. The interactions between Yu Tu and Qiao Jingjing are filled with warmth and humor, as they navigate their rekindled relationship. The gaming scenes are well-integrated into the plot, showcasing the strategic thinking and teamwork involved in Honor of Kings. The drama also explores the personal struggles of the characters, as Yu Tu grapples with his career choices and Qiao Jingjing deals with the pressures of fame. You Are My Glory stands out for its mature and relatable characters. The drama delves into the complexities of their lives, portraying their ambitions, insecurities, and personal growth. The chemistry between Yang Yang and Dilraba Dilmurat is undeniable, making their romance all the more captivating. The drama also offers a glimpse into the world of aerospace engineering, adding an element of intellectual curiosity to the narrative. The gaming scenes are not just for entertainment; they also serve as a backdrop for the characters to connect and support each other. You Are My Glory is a refreshing take on the eSport drama genre, blending romance, personal growth, and the excitement of online gaming. Its well-developed characters, engaging storyline, and high production values make it a must-watch for fans of romance and gaming alike. The drama's success can be attributed to its ability to balance different elements, creating a well-rounded and satisfying viewing experience. Whether you're a gamer or not, You Are My Glory offers something for everyone, with its heartwarming romance and relatable characters. The series highlights the importance of following your passions and supporting those you love, making it a truly inspiring drama.

5. Gank Your Heart

Gank Your Heart is another compelling drama that revolves around the world of professional eSports. The story centers on Ji Xiang Kong, played by Wang Yibo, a talented professional gamer who faces a series of setbacks. He teams up with Qiu Ying, played by Wang Zixuan, an aspiring streamer, to overcome challenges and prove their worth in the competitive gaming scene.

The drama highlights the intense pressure and dedication required to succeed in eSports. Ji Xiang Kong's character is portrayed as a determined and skilled gamer, but he also faces personal struggles and professional obstacles. Qiu Ying's journey as a streamer adds a unique perspective to the story, showcasing the challenges and opportunities in the world of online content creation. The drama also explores the importance of teamwork and camaraderie. Ji Xiang Kong and Qiu Ying form strong bonds with their teammates, working together to achieve their goals. The competitive gaming scenes are exciting and well-choreographed, providing viewers with a glimpse into the fast-paced world of eSports. Gank Your Heart stands out for its realistic portrayal of the eSports industry. The drama delves into the challenges faced by professional gamers, including the pressure to perform, the sacrifices required to maintain a competitive edge, and the impact of public perception. The relationship between Ji Xiang Kong and Qiu Ying is a central theme, as they support each other in pursuing their dreams. Their interactions are filled with mutual respect and admiration, as they navigate the complexities of their personal and professional lives. The drama also explores the ethical considerations of eSports, including issues such as cheating and the exploitation of players. Gank Your Heart is a thought-provoking drama that offers a deeper understanding of the eSports industry. Its well-developed characters, engaging storyline, and realistic portrayal of the gaming world make it a must-watch for fans of the genre. The drama's success can be attributed to its ability to balance entertainment with social commentary, creating a compelling and informative viewing experience. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the world of eSports, Gank Your Heart offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of those who compete at the highest level.

These Chinese eSport dramas from 2021 offer a diverse range of stories, from romantic comedies to intense competitive narratives. They provide a glimpse into the exciting world of eSports, showcasing the talent, dedication, and challenges faced by professional gamers. Whether you're a fan of gaming or simply enjoy a good drama, these series are sure to entertain and inspire.