Digital sports: what is it and why it's worth trying to do it

If you have tried on clothes online at least once or made an order in a cafe using a QR code, then you are already a little familiar with the concept. The word "digital" is formed by merging two others: "physical" and "digital". This term is called the union What is phygital? / Definition from TechTarget digital and real-world experiences using augmented or virtual reality technologies. Now digital is not only a tool for solving everyday problems, but also an opportunity to rethink entertainment. For example, he has already introduced new formats to the world of sports — we tell you how it works.

What are sports digital games

Digital sports are combinations of physical exercises and computer games. By the way, in Russia it is an independent sport. There are different formats, but there are two most popular ones.

1. Competition in a classic sport and in its virtual counterpart

For such games, you need to assemble a team. First, the participants check who is stronger in a computer simulator, and then the match turns into reality. An important caveat: both parts of the competition are equal. In practice, it works like this. The football team plays the first half in FIFA, and the second half on the field. At the same time, all the goals scored in the cyber and classic match are summed up in the end. You can arrange a digital not only in football, but also in any sport that has a virtual version. For example, basketball — NBA, go—kart racing - Need for Speed.

Martial arts for teams is also easy to conduct in the digital format. For example, Mortal Combat will be suitable as a digital part. The rules can be organized as follows:

• A draw is held before the start of the tournament.
• Each fighter from the team plays one match in Mortal Kombat and one real fight with the same opponent.
• The game in Mortal Combat lasts up to 2 wins, that is, a maximum of 3 rounds.
• The real duel takes place in the format of 3 rounds of 3 minutes.

2. Competition in VR

Such tournaments are suitable for both one person and a company. The main thing is to get virtual reality glasses. As a rule, VR is used in tactical challenges and shooters. The player puts on a headset, takes a joystick and connects to the cybermen, turning into a virtual character. He jumps, runs, dodges obstacles while in one place. At the same time, the computer reads all the movements and automatically adjusts the gameplay to the player.

If you are not a big fan of classic shooting games, you can try quieter competitions in VR. For example, play golf with friends at Everybody's Golf or shoot arrows at QuiVr. By the way, it is not necessary to buy a headset — now virtual reality glasses can be rented.

Why is it worth trying such games

There are at least four reasons for this.

1. A familiar sport can become a digital

If classic football, hockey or basketball are already boring, a digital game will help add new colors to them. By the way, in Russia there is a whole federation of this new format of sport, which introduces people to its features, holds competitions and even develops special regulations for its athletes.

2. The virtual part of the competition does not exclude training

On the contrary, it will be possible to pump all the same muscle groups, but in an unusual format. This is the main difference between digital and esports. In addition, games consisting of several stages require a little more time and attention than a simple trip to the gym.

3. The combination of sports with computer games trains not only muscles

There is data that proves Video game playing found beneficial for the brain / Kurzweil : gaming has a positive effect on the ability to navigate in space, memory, strategic planning and even fine motor skills of the hands. And switching attention from the virtual world to the real one also pumps the speed of decision-making.

4. Players get an unusual experience

At least at the expense of a virtual "training room" created by a computer. If in doubt, remember how technology has already improved our lives and leisure. Take at least a movie. Previously, favorite movies had to be caught in the program of programs, but today they are easy to watch at any time on online platforms. By the way, acquaintance with digital can also be started as a spectator. And if you like it, retrain into a full-fledged player.