Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, Singapore, has launched Beatsverse, a virtual experience on Roblox inspired by Baybeats, Esplanade’s annual alternative music festival. Beatsverse coincides with the 25th edition of Baybeats, to be held in September this year, creating new opportunities for audiences to discover Singapore’s alternative music scene, connect with artists and experience the festival through interactive gameplay.
Since 2002, Baybeats has been a cornerstone of Singapore’s alternative music scene as its largest alternative music festival, championing independent artists and fostering music discovery. In tandem with the 25th edition of Baybeats, Beatsverse extends the Baybeats experience beyond the physical compounds of Esplanade. Launching on Roblox on 4 August 2026, the virtual world was developed by technology partner Metakey and features music by over 20 Singapore artists, including bands who will be performing at Baybeats 2026, and is inspired by the festival’s distinctive energy and community spirit.
On-site activations during the live Baybeats festival from 3 to 6 September 2026 at Esplanade will also allow Beatsverse players to unlock exclusive in-game features, including limited-edition virtual rewards, leaderboard challenges and special Baybeats merchandise.
Beatsverse is supported by the National Arts Council (NAC) and is part of its initiatives to support the development of new arts experiences for audience engagement and arts discovery in virtual spaces. It was created with TBWA\Singapore and guided by Our SG Arts Plan (2023-2027).
“Beatsverse highlights what becomes possible when we enable artists and arts organizations to explore technology in the arts,” said Victor Ang, Director, Technology and Innovation, National Arts Council.
“New opportunities and innovative experiences make festivals like Baybeats more accessible when we engage different audiences together as a digitally confident sector built on a culture of experimentation and collaboration.”
“For 25 years, Baybeats has introduced generations of music lovers to Singapore’s alternative music scene,” said Lee Kit Pui, Director, Marketing, The Esplanade Co Ltd.
“With Beatsverse, we’re bringing that spirit to a platform where many young people already spend their time. Technology doesn’t replace the live experience, but it can help to open the door to it. By complementing the festival with a digital experience, we hope to spark curiosity, help more people discover Singapore’s vibrant music scene, and inspire them to experience Baybeats in person at Esplanade.”
“Beatsverse has been a valuable opportunity to explore how technology can support the arts in practical and meaningful ways,” said Melissa Daniels, Chief Innovation Officer, OA Asia and TBWA\Group Singapore.
“The strongest learning is that digital platforms work best when they extend the character of an existing cultural experience, rather than simply replicate it. By bringing together arts, technology and creative partners, projects like this can create new ways for audiences to discover artists, participate in culture and build a connection that continues beyond the digital experience.”
Three key gameplay features
Players can explore Beatsverse through three key gameplay experiences inspired by the energy and community spirit of Baybeats.
At the heart of Beatsverse is the Main Stage Event, where players come together every five minutes for a server-wide rhythm challenge inspired by live performances. Working collectively to build a shared Hype Meter, every successful action contributes to transforming the virtual festival environment in real time, capturing the excitement, camaraderie and collective energy of a live Baybeats crowd.
Players can also enjoy rhythm-based challenges on their own or team up with a friend. Solo Play focuses on individual skill, allowing players to test their timing and reflexes while progressing through music-inspired challenges. Duo Play encourages teamwork, with pairs working in sync to complete objectives and earn rewards together, echoing the sense of camaraderie that has long been part of the Baybeats festival experience.
As players complete challenges and reach milestones, they can redeem exclusive in-game rewards at the Merchandise Station. These include digital collectibles, avatar customization items and limited-edition user-generated content (UGC) rewards, with selected items available for redemption through on-site activations during the Baybeats festival.
Leaderboards track the highest-performing players across Solo Play, Duo Play and the Main Stage Event, allowing participants to compete for the top spot and earn bragging rights within the Beatsverse community.
Beatsverse is available on Roblox from 4 August 2026. The full Baybeats 2026 line-up was announced on 3 August 2026. Baybeats 2026 runs from 3 to 6 September 2026 at Esplanade.
Credits
Project Owner: The Esplanade Co Ltd
Project Manager and Innovation Counsel: TBWA\Singapore
