This study conducted a systematic literature review to conceptualize hybrid eSports by applying the Activity–Arena–Actor model as an analytical framework. The review aimed to identify key structural characteristics of hybrid eSports and to clarify how physical activity, digital environments, and human and non-human actors are integrated within this emerging sport form. Following the PRISMA guidelines, peer-reviewed journal articles published between 2014 and 2025 were collected from major academic databases. After a rigorous screening process, 21 studies were selected for final analysis. The selected literature was analyzed by categorizing each study according to activity, arena, and actor dimensions. The results indicated that hybrid eSports activities involve embodied physical movements directly linked to digital performance outcomes, extending beyond traditional input-based gameplay. The arena was identified as a hybrid space that combines physical settings with virtual environments, supported by immersive technologies and real-time feedback systems. In terms of actors, hybrid eSports encompass not only players but also artificial intelligence systems, sensors, spectators, and platform-mediated networks, highlighting multi-actor interactions between human and technological elements. The findings suggest that hybrid eSports represent a distinct sport configuration that transcends the conventional dichotomy between traditional sports and digital games. The conceptual framework proposed in this study provides a systematic foundation for future empirical research and contributes to theoretical discussions on digital transformation in sport.
Byun et al. (Thu,) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: