The Stinger Report #1242 - Shaping the New Audience – Part 2

Our comprehensive review of IBE’25 highlights a pivotal shift in the XR landscape within the out-of-home entertainment sector, especially in bowling-centric venues. While VR’s prominence has waned, reflected by fewer showcases and diminished enthusiasm, mixed reality (MR) and gamified active attractions are gaining traction. Exhibitors like RaceParx and Gel Blaster Nexus demonstrate a focus on compact, immersive, and interactive experiences that appeal to diverse audiences and boost revenue streams amid economic pressures. The show also revealed emerging interest from KONAMI, signaling a possible re-entry into the Western market with direct sales of their popular BEMANI rhythm games, potentially via revenue-sharing models, marking a strategic shift from past distributor reliance. Meanwhile, IAAPA Asia’s event underscored a growing emphasis on media-driven and immersive attractions, including VR motion rides and projection-based systems, albeit with a cautious approach to VR innovation. Overall, the industry is pivoting toward more sustainable, gamified, and MR-driven experiences, reflecting evolving consumer preferences and technological maturation.Subscribe and visit LBX Collective for more!