When Takara-Tomy announced Beyblade X, they boldly declared that “it’s not a game anymore.” They positioned it as more than just a toy or casual activity1.
Their press release set the tone for the series, suggesting that Beyblade would become a sport. Competitive players rejoiced at this shift in perception.Hasbro, the international distributor, focused on taglines like “Beyblade goes next level” and “begin your quest for Beymastery.” Notably absent was any mention of “sport” in their marketing.
Traditionally, sports involve physical skill, strategy, and competition. Beyblade checks these boxes: dexterity, tactics, and battling opponents.
Designer Kenji Horikoshi even hinted that they see Beyblade as a “gear-assisted” sport, akin to golf or skateboarding