So, which video games are featured in the Olympics? Well, not the kind you might expect—there’s no Mario Kart gold medal just yet. The IOC has experimented with its Olympic Esports Series, spotlighting games like Gran Turismo and virtual versions of classic sports, but traditional esports like Fortnite or League of Legends remain outsiders. Licensed Olympic sports games are popular, sure, but nothing officially “main event” for Paris 2024. Wondering how this digital torch might be passed in the future?
Reception is mixed, but generally upbeat. The licensed games sell well, probably because the Olympic rings are like catnip for gamers and collectors.
Reviews often praise creativity—who doesn’t want to see Bowser toss a javelin?—though realism sometimes takes a backseat. Multiplayer modes keep communities engaged, and cross-platform releases guarantee no one gets left behind. The International Olympic Committee has also experimented with Olympic Esports Series events, which feature video game competitions tied to traditional sports.
While traditional esports aren’t quite Olympic events yet, the IOC has dabbled with the Olympic Esports Series and virtual competitions. There is currently no console video game planned for the Paris 2024 Olympics, reflecting a shift in how developers and the IOC are approaching digital Olympic experiences.