Singapore's biggest alternative music festival is heading into the virtual world. Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay has launched Beatsverse, a Roblox experience inspired by Baybeats, giving fans a new way to discover Singapore's independent music scene ahead of this year's festival.
Launched on 4 August, Beatsverse celebrates the 25th edition of Baybeats, which returns to Esplanade from 3–6 September. Developed with technology partner Metakey, the virtual world features music from more than 20 Singapore artists, including acts performing at this year's festival, while recreating the community-driven energy that Baybeats has become known for over the past two decades.
Rather than replacing the live festival, Beatsverse is designed to extend the Baybeats experience beyond Esplanade's physical grounds. Festival-goers will also be able to unlock exclusive in-game rewards through on-site activations during Baybeats, including limited-edition virtual items, leaderboard challenges and special merchandise.
Inside Beatsverse, players can take part in several rhythm-inspired game modes. A server-wide Main Stage Event takes place every five minutes, where players work together to build a shared Hype Meter that transforms the virtual festival environment in real time. Those looking for a challenge can also jump into Solo Play or team up with a friend in Duo Play, while a Merchandise Station lets players redeem digital collectibles, avatar customisation items and limited-edition user-generated content rewards.
The project is supported by the National Arts Council (NAC) as part of its efforts to explore new ways for audiences to engage with the arts through virtual experiences. Created with innovation counsel TBWA\Singapore, Beatsverse also supports the goals of Our SG Arts Plan (2023–2027).
Lee Kit Pui, Director of Marketing at The Esplanade Co Ltd, shared that the project aims to bring Baybeats to platforms where younger audiences are already spending their time, while encouraging them to eventually experience the festival in person.
Melissa Daniels, Chief Innovation Officer at OA Asia and TBWA\Group Singapore, added that the initiative demonstrates how digital platforms can complement cultural experiences by helping audiences discover artists and stay connected with them beyond the festival itself.
The launch of Beatsverse follows Esplanade's broader push to expand its digital offerings. Earlier this year, the performing arts centre also introduced redesigned versions of Esplanade.com and Esplanade Offstage, bringing performance listings and editorial content together into a more connected online experience.
Beatsverse is now available on Roblox, while the full Baybeats lineup was unveiled on 3 August. Fans can search for "Beatsverse" on Roblox before heading down to Baybeats this September.
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