Through the metaverse environment, the companies intend to enable gamers and enthusiasts of Virtual Regatta to participate in exclusive online events, connect with other fans, and get access to team stats
Ocean Race introduces metaverse experience with Accenture and Virtual Regatta. (Credit: Accenture)
Ocean Race, a worldwide yacht race, has introduced a metaverse experience pilot with Accenture and online web browser sailing race simulator Virtual Regatta.
Through the metaverse environment, the companies intend to enable gamers and enthusiasts of Virtual Regatta to participate in exclusive online events, connect with other fans, and get access to team statistics.
Virtual Regatta is the official e-sailing game of Ocean Race.
The three companies are also offering e-commerce opportunities for companies to promote their digital goods and services in the metaverse space like active apparel retailer and official clothing partner of the race Helly Hansen, stated Accenture.
Besides, Accenture said that Ocean Race’s goal of protecting the seas is reflected in the metaverse content and strategy.
Virtual Regatta founder and CEO Philippe Guigné said: “The metaverse is a new experience provided by Virtual Regatta and The Ocean Race that will allow people to follow the physical and virtual race in an all-digital race village.
“Gamers and enthusiasts will be able to meet each other, watch the physical and digital event, and much more. This virtual reality setup will further enhance the fan experience.”
The Ocean Race metaverse pilot experience is expected to be accessible to users on a limited basis beginning from the last week of Leg 3 of the race from Cape Town to Itajaí, Brazil.
According to the companies, over 200,000 players are anticipated to participate in the Virtual Regatta Offshore and Inshore versions of the race.
On Virtual Regatta offshore, seven International Monohull Open Class Association (IMOCA) legs and three VO65 Sprint stages are included with new features for an extended virtual experience.
It is expected to simulate the actual race the crews are taking part in.
Accenture metaverse continuum business group co-lead David Treat said: “The metaverse will usher in a new era of our digital lives, overcoming the limitations of the physical world and creating new opportunities to immerse in issues and connect as communities.
“Our collaboration with The Ocean Race and Virtual Regatta is helping reinvent how people engage with the race and protect our oceans while creating value for all stakeholders.”