The Phygital Games of the Future 2025 wrapped up its six-day competition this week in Abu Dhabi, showcasing 11 innovative hybrid sports combining physical athleticism with digital gameplay. More than 2,000 participants from 50 countries competed in disciplines like phygital football and basketball, where players alternate between virtual simulations and real-world matches.
Market Set for Explosive Growth
Third-party research indicates the global phygital games market will surpass $2 billion this year, with projections reaching $5.5 billion by 2029. Nis Hatt, CEO of Phygital International, told KhabarAsia: "This convergence addresses modern audiences' demand for multifaceted entertainment while creating new commercial opportunities."
China's Emerging Phygital Landscape
Industry representative Cui Kai revealed the Chinese mainland market could grow 20-30% annually, potentially reaching 50 billion yuan within five years. "While still nascent, our 1.4 billion population and tech-savvy youth present unmatched scalability," Cui noted, emphasizing government support for digital innovation in sports.
Redefining Sports Engagement
The format allows audiences to experience both e-sports strategy sessions and live athletic performances within single events. Participants praised the hybrid model for bridging gaming communities with traditional sports fans, creating new pathways for athlete development and sponsorship deals.
