The PGA Tour is expanding into the metaverse with the launch of the “Ultimate Golf Simulator” on Roblox.
This new experience, created in partnership with PING, First Tee, and The Gang, allows users to take part in a virtual “hole-in-one” challenge alongside PGA TOUR professionals Viktor Hovland and Austin Eckroat.
The game offers an in-game competition where players try to score as many holes-in-one as possible. Those who succeed will earn virtual rewards and exclusive wearables inspired by PGA TOUR tournaments. There will also be a virtual merchandise store offering themed apparel, including limited-edition items from creators like Bob Does Sports and Breezy Golf.
Scheduled to officially launch on March 19, the simulator is designed to engage a younger audience. “Our goal is to connect with the next generation of golf enthusiasts,” said John K. Solheim, CEO & President of PING. “The PGA Tour Ultimate Golf Simulator presents an innovative way to introduce the game to a broader audience in an interactive format.”
This move into Roblox is the PGA Tour’s second attempt to engage the platform’s users, following the release of “PGA Tour Scramble” during the 2023 FedExCup Playoffs.
The PGA Tour’s metaverse journey began in 2022 when it filed trademark applications related to NFTs and the metaverse. In 2023, the PGA Tour partnered with DraftKings to launch an NFT-based fantasy golf game, allowing fans to collect digital cards and participate in contests.
This initiative is part of a broader trend where sports organizations are using digital platforms to reach younger fans. According to research from the PGA TOUR’s Fan Forward initiative, younger audiences are increasingly drawn to interactive digital experiences. In 2024, Roblox users spent over 500 million hours in sports-related games, marking a 26% year-over-year increase.
