10 Movies and Shows Like Esports World Cup: Level Up (2025)

Description: This documentary explores the competitive world of arcade gaming, focusing on the rivalry between players striving for high scores. Like 'Esports World Cup: Level Up', it delves into the passion, dedication, and drama of competitive gaming, showcasing the intense emotions and personal stakes involved in esports and high-score chasing.

Fact: The film centers on the battle for the Donkey Kong high score between Billy Mitchell and Steve Wiebe. It was praised for its dramatic storytelling, turning a niche subject into a compelling narrative. The film helped revive interest in classic arcade games.

Description: This documentary highlights the creative and competitive spirit of indie game developers, similar to the esports athletes in 'Esports World Cup: Level Up'. Both films showcase the intense dedication, emotional highs and lows, and the personal sacrifices made in the pursuit of excellence in the gaming world.

Fact: The film follows the development of games like Super Meat Boy and Fez. It won the World Cinema Documentary Editing Award at Sundance. The movie provides an intimate look at the struggles of independent game creators.

Description: This documentary follows young golf prodigies competing in a world championship, similar to the young, talented gamers in 'Esports World Cup: Level Up'. Both films highlight the pressure, dedication, and youthful passion in competitive sports and gaming.

Fact: Features 7-year-old competitors from around the world. Directed by Josh Greenbaum. Shows the intense training and parental involvement in youth sports.

Description: This documentary chronicles the fierce competition between Sega and Nintendo in the 1990s, mirroring the rivalries and strategic battles seen in esports. Like 'Esports World Cup: Level Up', it captures the excitement, innovation, and high-stakes drama of the gaming industry.

Fact: Based on the book by Blake J. Harris. Features interviews with key figures from both companies. Highlights the marketing and technological battles that shaped modern gaming.

Description: While focused on basketball, this documentary shares the competitive intensity, teamwork, and personal drama that are central to esports. 'Esports World Cup: Level Up' likely mirrors the same themes of ambition, rivalry, and the pursuit of greatness seen in Michael Jordan's career.

Fact: Covers Michael Jordan's final season with the Chicago Bulls. Won the Emmy for Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Series. Features never-before-seen footage from the 1997-98 season.

Description: This true crime series about the McDonald's Monopoly scam has a competitive edge and high-stakes drama akin to esports tournaments. Both 'Esports World Cup: Level Up' and 'McMillions' explore the lengths people will go to win, whether through skill or deception.

Fact: The scam involved rigging the McDonald's Monopoly game for over a decade. The FBI investigation uncovered a complex fraud scheme. The series blends crime drama with dark humor.

Description: This docuseries traces the evolution of video games and the rise of competitive gaming, making it a perfect companion to 'Esports World Cup: Level Up'. Both celebrate the history, culture, and competitive spirit of gaming.

Fact: Covers the 1970s to the 1990s gaming boom. Features interviews with gaming pioneers. Explores the birth of iconic games and consoles.

Description: This series profiles legendary sports coaches, offering insights into strategy, teamwork, and leadership—qualities essential in esports. 'Esports World Cup: Level Up' likely mirrors these themes, showcasing how top gamers and teams prepare and compete at the highest level.

Fact: Features coaches like Doc Rivers and Jill Ellis. Each episode focuses on a different coach's philosophy. Combines sports with life lessons.

Description: This documentary focuses on professional Dota 2 players, directly aligning with the esports theme of 'Esports World Cup: Level Up'. Both films explore the lives of gamers, their struggles, and the global phenomenon of competitive gaming.

Fact: Produced by Valve Corporation. Follows three players during The International 201Highlights the cultural impact of esports.

Description: While a true crime series, its intense, high-stakes narrative and public scrutiny parallel the drama and pressure faced by esports competitors in 'Esports World Cup: Level Up'. Both involve individuals under extreme pressure, fighting for their reputations and futures.

Fact: Focuses on Steven Avery's wrongful conviction. Sparked widespread debate and legal scrutiny. Won four Primetime Emmy Awards.