The Future of Esports Sustainability: Interdisciplinary Pathways and Challenges in an AI-Mediated Digital Transformation of Society

Two years after the Journal of Electronic Gaming and Esports published its foundational special issue on sustainability, this expert perspective reflects on the field’s evolution and presents a renewed interdisciplinary research agenda. While celebrating advances in competitive representation and innovative business model diversification, we identify persistent challenges: fragmented social inclusion efforts, economic tiers disconnected from grassroots communities, and environmental progress that remains largely symbolic. As global society grapples with AI’s disruptive impact on education and employment, esports emerges not merely as escapist entertainment but as a potential platform for solutions. The industry now stands at a critical juncture where integrated sustainability strategies are essential for long-term viability. As a digitally native sector with significant cultural influence among younger populations, esports holds unique potential to model sustainable practices and influence broader societal behaviors. We propose an updated research agenda built around four interconnected pillars: social sustainability through digital heritage and inclusive community building; economic sustainability via diversified value creation and equitable distribution; environmental sustainability addressing ecological impact and cultural influence; and interdisciplinary approaches positioning esports as a lens for complex digital-era challenges particularly as a counterbalance to AI dependency in education. This agenda positions esports as a testing ground for sustainable digital transformation with relevance beyond gaming.