Transforming Education Through Gaming: LunaTone's New Initiative with APU

LunaTone Inc., based in Roppongi, Tokyo, led by CEO Hyun Balo, has embarked on an innovative educational journey with Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) in Beppu, Oita. Together, they are launching a new program called "Playable Careers: Gaming & Esports for Social Innovation." This initiative aims to leverage gaming and esports to address social challenges through a comprehensive educational framework that fosters creativity, collaboration, and practical skills among students.

The program kicks off with the APU Game Arcade event scheduled for November 13, 2025, an engaging gathering held at APU's Building E Cafeteria. This informal arcade event is designed to allow students, faculty, and community members to experience the fun of gaming while cultivating an understanding of societal themes such as culture, teamwork, and collaboration. The excitement generated during this event paves the way for a series of four educational sessions that will be held over the course of six weeks, starting in December 2025 and concluding in January 2026.

The educational component consists of four sessions:
1. Learning from Real-Life Examples (Game and esports industry business scenario analysis)
2. Idea Generation and Hypothesis Building (Crafting positive change through gaming and esports)
3. Transforming Ideas into Business Models (Developing sustainable business plans)
4. Final Presentation and Reflection (Group proposals and discussions)

Conducted in English with Japanese support available, the program allows students to identify social issues and devise solutions leveraging gaming and esports. By participating, students will not only learn valuable skills applicable to the business world, such as decision-making, teamwork, data analysis, and problem identification, but will also contribute to ongoing discussions about societal betterment.

Gaming as a Laboratory for Social Learning

Games and esports have evolved beyond mere entertainment, becoming microcosms of society that demand skills directly transferable to real-world business environments. LunaTone recognizes the potential of these mediums as catalysts for community building and solutions for social challenges. By adopting the concept of "Playable Education," LunaTone encourages learners to engage in practical hands-on experiences. This program in partnership with APU represents a second phase in this initiative, aiming to create an experimental educational platform that connects social problem-solving, career development, and gaming culture, all within a multicultural community.

The Vision Behind Playable Education

LunaTone seeks to establish a "Playable Ecosystem" that connects education, community, and industry. This initiative is a continuation of their previous work, such as the "NOBEOKA × Waiwai Short Film Production Program," which laid the groundwork for innovation in educational practices. In the future, LunaTone plans to expand this model by collaborating with universities, vocational schools, and local governments, promoting a learning methodology that fosters connections with society through play.

As a leader in fostering innovation through gaming, esports, and the metaverse, LunaTone Inc. provides solutions that enhance community vitality, connect industry players, and shape the future of digital engagement. With a growing reputation for trustworthiness among governmental bodies, educational institutions, and enterprises, LunaTone is committed to merging cutting-edge technology with inclusive practices to create a meaningful, lasting impact on society.

For more details about LunaTone Inc. and its initiatives, visit LunaTone's official website.