Georgia State University’s Creative Media Industries Institute (CMII) is set to open its AR Cave to the public on June 22 and July 6 for an Immersive Soccer Experience that forms part of the institution’s Summer of Soccer celebration. The 270‑degree installation guides visitors through the sport’s history, scientific angles, cultural resonance and global impact, positioning Atlanta as an emerging soccer hub.
A Collaborative Journey
The project emerged from a semester‑long partnership between CMII students, faculty and Atlanta United FC. During the collaboration, executives from the MLS club toured the institute’s facilities, shared insights on storytelling, branding and audience engagement, and helped shape a narrative that blends sport with technology. Participants included Matt Moore, Ivy Scott, Nick Sanchez, Joe Freihofer, Chris Jordan, Jason Drakeford and Meta Gary, whose diverse skills contributed to design, production and research.
Exploring the Game’s Many Facets
Five student teams each tackled a distinct theme — ranging from the evolution of tactics and the physics of the ball to the socioeconomic influence of host cities. The groups toured Atlanta United’s broadcast center, filmed an interview with goalkeeper Brad Guzan, and translated their findings into interactive modules that invite visitors to engage with soccer from multiple perspectives.
Immersive Storytelling Meets Soccer
By moving beyond traditional media, the experience asks participants to navigate a fully immersive environment where information is delivered through sight, sound and spatial interaction. This approach reflects CMII’s broader mission to experiment with new forms of narrative while providing students with hands‑on industry experience.
The event is open to audiences of all ages and forms part of a larger Summer of Soccer program that highlights Atlanta’s growing role in the sport. It also continues a tradition of linking academic work with community impact, echoing a 2025 collaboration with the National Center for Civil and Human Rights that examined voting rights through immersive media.