From Japan to the World: A New Sport Experienced by Over 10.5 Million People

HADO is an augmented reality sport created in Japan.

Players move freely in a real-world arena while using AR technology to launch energy balls, deploy shields, and compete through teamwork and strategy. Combining the excitement of gaming with the physical engagement of sports, HADO offers a unique experience that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike.

Since its launch in 2016, HADO has expanded globally and has now been experienced by more than 10.5 million people worldwide.

Player count calculated from HADO experiences between 2016 and December 2025. Figures include HADO only and exclude other HADO series titles such as HADO MONSTER BATTLE and HADO SHOOT.

HADO WORLD CUP 2025 in Shanghai

Why Has HADO Been Adopted Across So Many Different Environments?

HADO was originally inspired by a simple dream: allowing people to experience the thrill of launching an energy blast with their own hands.

Today, it has evolved into much more than a form of entertainment.

While HADO encourages active physical movement, victory is not determined solely by athletic ability. Success depends on communication, teamwork, decision-making, and strategy.

Players share the same physical space, work together, celebrate victories, learn from defeats, and create memorable experiences together.

This ability to naturally connect people regardless of age, gender, nationality, or sporting experience has enabled HADO to deliver value in a wide variety of settings.

As a result, HADO is used to:

• Drive visitor engagement at shopping malls and entertainment venues
• Support active learning and collaboration in educational environments
• Strengthen communication and teamwork at corporate events
• Energize community festivals and regional events
• Develop competitive athletes through domestic and international tournaments

Rather than serving a single purpose, HADO has become a platform for creating meaningful shared experiences.

The Growth of HADO

Since its launch in 2016, HADO has expanded from a single AR sports concept into a global platform spanning entertainment, education, corporate events, and international competition.

The timeline below highlights some of the key milestones in HADO’s journey.

• 2016 – HADO officially launched as the world’s first AR sport
• 2018 – Expanded internationally, surpassing 10 locations worldwide
• 2019 – Officially adopted as a school club activity at Fukuoka Daiichi High School
• 2022 – Opened HADO ARENA ODAIBA, a flagship permanent venue in Tokyo
• 2023 – Recognized in the prestigious “Amazing Ventures 100” selection
• 2024 – Surpassed 1,000 corporate events delivered
• 2025 – Reached over 2,000 educational institution adoptions and hosted international championships overseas
• 2025 – Selected for the Japan Sports Agency’s Reiwa-Era School Physical Education Development Support Program

Message from Koji Fukuda, CEO of meleap

“The growth of HADO would not have been possible without the millions of people who have experienced it around the world, our partners who operate and promote HADO in their respective regions, and the players who continue to compete, improve, and inspire others through the sport.

What began as an AR experience has evolved into a genuine competitive sport because of the passion of our community. Every match, every challenge, and every memorable moment contributed to reaching this milestone of 10.5 million players.

We will continue creating opportunities for people around the world to move, connect, and enjoy meaningful experiences together.”

Message from Takuma Motoki, Creator of HADO

“Our original vision was ambitious: to create a sport that could one day rival football in global popularity.

Development began in a small shared office in Shibuya, Tokyo. We were driven by a belief that technology could create an entirely new kind of sport capable of inspiring people around the world.

Seeing HADO grow from that small room into a sport enjoyed by more than 10.5 million people worldwide is incredibly rewarding.

As technology continues to evolve, HADO will continue evolving with it. We remain committed to building a sport that anyone, regardless of age, background, or ability, can enjoy and become passionate about. I look forward to seeing how far this journey can go.”

Takuma Motoki is referred to as the creator of HADO due to his leading role in the original planning and direction of the project.

Recent Highlights

Expansion into Saudi Arabia

In April 2026, HADO officially launched operations in Saudi Arabia through local partner X Square.

The expansion aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, which continues to drive investment in sports, esports, entertainment, and next-generation experiences.

HADO Continues to Grow as an International Phygital Sport

In January 2026, HADO was featured as an official discipline at the international phygital sports competition, Games of the Future, held in Abu Dhabi.

The event further demonstrated HADO’s potential as a global sport that combines physical movement and digital competition, with continued participation planned for future editions.

Recognition in Education

In February 2026, a HADO-based educational initiative in Shikokuchuo City, Japan, was recognized as part of a project receiving evaluation under the 8th Japan ICT Education Awards.

The initiative was acknowledged for creating inclusive participation opportunities, encouraging student engagement, and supporting active learning regardless of athletic ability.

About meleap Inc.

meleap develops and operates HADO, an AR-powered activity that combines technology, physical movement, and social interaction.

Guided by the vision of creating a society where everyone can enjoy moving their bodies and maintain both physical and mental well-being, meleap continues to create “magical experiences” through technology.

Today, HADO is available in more than 40 countries and regions worldwide, offering people of all ages and athletic abilities a new way to play, compete, and connect.

Through innovation, entertainment, and sport, meleap will continue expanding opportunities for people around the world to experience the joy of movement, human connection, and shared excitement.