GBSB Global Students Explore the Future of Gaming and XR at Alfa5 Barcelona
Students from GBSB Global Business School recently visited Alfa5 XR Sports in Barcelona for an immersive academic experience dedicated to the future of gaming, eSports and extended reality.
The visit brought Bachelor’s and Master’s students together for a session exploring how immersive technologies are transforming entertainment, sports, learning and digital business. Based in Barcelona’s Poblenou innovation district, Alfa5 provides interactive XR experiences combining physical movement, gaming, and advanced technology within an engaging, participatory setting.
Ana Oliveras, Director of Alfa5 XR Sports and a pioneering figure in Spain’s gaming and eSports sector, led the session. Drawing on her extensive professional experience, she introduced the students to the evolution of the industry, from its early development to its current role as a global ecosystem connecting entertainment, technology, branding, entrepreneurship and new professional pathways.
The students were also joined by Xavier Vila, Alfa5’s Sales and Events Director, who shared his insights on the business model of immersive entertainment spaces and the increasing demand for experiential digital formats.
In addition to the theoretical session, students had the opportunity to experience Alfa5’s XR games first-hand, gaining a practical understanding of how virtual reality and interactive technologies are redefining user engagement. The visit offered an insight into a fast-growing sector where creativity, business strategy, technology and consumer experience are converging.
For many participants, the activity emphasised the importance of brand positioning, diversified business models and practical industry knowledge when launching entrepreneurial projects in gaming or digital entertainment.
This experience reflects GBSB Global’s commitment to connecting academic learning with the realities of emerging industries. Engaging directly with innovative companies and sector professionals provides students with the practical perspective needed to understand the forces shaping the future of the digital economy.