With the development of robots and virtual reality, sports that were depicted in sci-fi and fantasy movies and considered impossibly futuristic could now become a reality. Here are some events that we could see being played in the not-too-distant future!
Robot Boxing
In the movie Real Steel, robot boxing is a futuristic sport where massive humanoid robots controlled by human operators engage in intense boxing matches. These colossal machines are equipped with advanced artificial intelligence, intricate mechanical components, and powerful hydraulics. The sport captivates audiences with its high-stakes battles, combining the excitement of traditional boxing with the cutting-edge technology of robotics.
There are already humanoid boxing robots that are capable of delivering knockout blows. While these robots are nowhere near as advanced as the robots in Real Steel, a full-on robot boxing league did once exist in the form of Robot Combat League, something that we believe came about too soon for it’s own good. In the future, we envision these fighting robots possessing customizable features, allowing teams to enhance strength, agility, and unique fighting styles. The league would fuse AI, real-time data analytics, and augmented reality interfaces for spectators. Robot boxing is probably the only way we would step in the ring with Mike Tyson!
Quidditch
Every Harry Potter fan dreamed of playing quidditch and winning their game for their house by snatching that elusive golden snitch. For the non-Harry Potter fans out there, quidditch is a bit like polo meets handball but played on flying broomsticks.
A real-life version of quidditch is not on the time horizon quite yet. There are flying hoverboards and jetpacks, but recreating other aspects of the game will be challenging. There are also safety issues as quidditch is a contact sport. However, maybe with the inclusion of safety nets and miniature drones playing the role of quaffle, bludgers, and golden snitch, a recreation of quidditch could be played earlier than we think!
Pod Racing
Pod racing is the most popular sport in Star Wars and features skilled pilots navigating anti-gravity pods at high speeds through treacherous terrains. These pods, equipped with massive engines, repulsor lift technology, and intuitive controls, combine speed, strategy, and piloting skills.
Imagine a future where spacecraft designed for racing feature sleek aerodynamics, advanced propulsion systems, and cutting-edge safety measures. Pilots, trained in both precision flying and tactical decision-making, could compete in high-speed races, navigating through challenging courses in low Earth orbit or even beyond. Advancements in space travel technology, such as reusable rockets and advanced propulsion methods, could pave the way for spacecraft racing leagues.
The closest sport that we have to Pod Racing right now is Flying Car Racing, Watch one of the best flying car racers, Lexie Janson speaking in detail about – What is flying car racing?
Blernsball
Blernsball is the perfect sport to play in virtual reality! Blernsball is a surreal sport featured in the animated series Futurama and is a parody of traditional baseball. Set in the 31st century, the Blernsball field has three bases that move randomly, creating confusion and unpredictability. The batter faces not only the challenge of hitting a pitch but also avoiding the dangerous “kill ball” that disintegrates players upon contact. The game lacks coherent rules, with frequent rule changes and nonsensical elements.
There is already a Futurama video game. So why can’t they create a virtual reality version of Blernsball? Who knows, it might overtake baseball in terms of popularity!
Zero Gravity Squash
In Doctor Who, there’s a planet dubbed Argolis, which is barren but features the Leisure Hive. The Leisure Hive is an ideal retreat for holidaymakers and plays host to a very special game, zero gravity squash. As you can imagine, the players float through the air and tumble upside down as they try to smash the ball into the wall using their squash racquets.
Technically, this sport could exist right now. NASA currently has a Zero Gravity Research Facility. Unfortunately, you can only experience near weightlessness for 5.18 seconds. Alternatively, you could hit a ride on a Zero-G flight and experience zero gravity, but the flights are pricey at $9,900 per person! When we’re all living in space in 300 years, maybe there’ll be space stations littered with zero-gravity squash courts.
Things are going to get weird over the next 30 years as advanced technology starts making the impossible possible. Sport is going to undergo a massive shift as traditional sports incorporate new technology and completely new events emerge that borrow elements from sci-fi movies!
