In recent years, competitive gaming has begun evolving beyond purely digital tournaments into hybrid formats that blend physical and virtual elements — a trend that’s reshaping what we know as esports. Known in some circles as “phygital sports,” these events integrate real-world physical activity or arenas with virtual gaming environments, offering spectators and players a more immersive experience. Unlike traditional esports — where players compete solely via controllers or keyboards — phygital competitions may involve augmented-reality gear, fitness-based peripherals, or real-life spaces adapted into gaming venues. This shift acknowledges the growing demand for innovation and engagement in competitive gaming.
This hybrid model presents unique advantages for both participants and audiences. For players, phygital events can combine physical movement or spatial awareness with gaming skills, encouraging a more holistic form of competition. For fans, the experience becomes more tangible: spectators might attend arenas, watch live physical-meets-digital competitions, or follow real-time streaming with augmented-reality overlays. The merging of physical presence and digital competition broadens the appeal of esports and attracts people who might not engage with traditional video-game tournaments. This trend underscores how technology and sport culture are converging at an accelerating pace.
Importantly, as phygital esports gain traction, stakeholders — from game developers to event organizers to regulatory bodies — must consider new standards and frameworks. Unlike traditional esports, phygital events may require physical venue logistics, safety protocols, hardware maintenance, and even hybrid-format rule sets. Recognizing and adapting to phygital’s complexity is essential to maintain fairness, accessibility, and sustainable growth. Those who embrace this hybrid future responsibly could steer esports toward becoming an even more inclusive, dynamic, and globally recognised sport.
