This paper works to categorize and understand the presence and punishment of cheating in the esports industry. Whether it is newly signed team players being suspended for past offenses, or professionals being caught match fixing or cheating mid-game, there are multiple patterns of behavior that can be analyzed through the lens of performance studies. The analysis draws from case studies across the spectrum of esports games and leagues, and incorporates the use of aimbots and account boosting, as well as more low-tech instances of cheating such as screen-looking and match fixing. In addition to
discussing instances of player malfeasance, the paper also analyzes the performances of game companies as they attempt to limit and punish cheating. The give and take between these two groups is a rich field of embodiment and restored behaviors that gives rise to a performance of fairness necessary for the industry’s long-term success.
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