Akihiko Sadaka From ASICS On Their New VR Game ‘DISC’

Forbes - Mar 28th, 2025

ASICS is launching a new VR game called 'DISC' for Meta Quest VR headsets, aiming to blend esports with physical activity. Akihiko Sadaka, ASICS' Chief Digital Officer, highlights the potential of VR to encourage exercise and improve both mental and physical health. The game, currently in an early build, features a clean and engaging art style, offering an immersive sports experience without directly linking to ASICS' traditional shoe and apparel business.

The development of 'DISC' signifies ASICS' strategic move to expand their brand beyond traditional sportswear, tapping into the growing esports and VR market. By collaborating with Meta, the world's largest VR headset producer, ASICS hopes to reach a global audience and promote healthy lifestyles through innovative digital technologies. The initiative reflects a broader trend of integrating digital technology into traditional sports, with potential plans for international VR tournaments in the future.

Esports Asics Disc Vr Game Meta Quest Akihiko Sadaka Vr Technology Physical Activity Digital Health

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.8

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article effectively communicates ASICS' development of the VR game DISC and its collaboration with Meta Quest, highlighting the potential benefits of VR technology in promoting physical activity. While the story is mostly accurate and timely, it would benefit from additional source verification and a more balanced presentation of perspectives. The article is clear and engaging, making it accessible to readers interested in VR and gaming. However, the lack of critical analysis and exploration of broader implications limits its impact and potential to spark meaningful discussion. Overall, the article provides valuable insights into a niche topic but could be strengthened by incorporating diverse viewpoints and enhancing transparency.

Accuracy

The story provides a generally accurate account of ASICS developing the VR game DISC for Meta Quest headsets. The claims about the collaboration with Meta and the game's purpose to promote physical activity align with ASICS' public statements and industry reports. However, the article lacks verification for Akihiko Sadaka's role as Chief Digital Officer, which is not confirmed in available sources. Additionally, while the story mentions an international sports event in Tokyo in 2021, it does not provide specific details or verification for this claim. Overall, the story is mostly accurate but could benefit from additional source verification for certain claims.

Balance

The article primarily presents the perspective of ASICS and its representatives, focusing on the benefits of DISC and the collaboration with Meta. While it provides a positive outlook on the potential of VR technology in sports, it lacks opposing viewpoints or critical perspectives on the challenges or limitations of VR sports. The story could be more balanced by including insights from industry experts or critics who may have differing opinions on the viability and impact of VR sports.

Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, with a logical flow of information. It effectively communicates the main points about the development and purpose of DISC, as well as ASICS' collaboration with Meta. The language is straightforward and accessible, making the article easy to understand. However, some technical aspects of the VR game could be explained in more detail for readers unfamiliar with the technology.

Source quality

The primary source of information is Akihiko Sadaka from ASICS, which provides direct insights into the company's motivations and plans. However, the story would benefit from additional sources to corroborate claims and provide a more comprehensive view. The reliance on a single company representative may introduce bias, and the lack of external expert opinions or independent verification affects the overall source quality.

Transparency

The article lacks transparency in several areas, particularly regarding the basis for certain claims and the absence of detailed source attribution. While it provides quotes from Akihiko Sadaka, the article does not clearly explain the methodology for gathering information or disclose any potential conflicts of interest. Greater transparency in how the information was obtained and the context of the quotes would enhance the article's credibility.