Highcross Leicester has introduced a new augmented reality gaming installation to its site. This installation marks the first time HADO, a Japanese techno-sport, has appeared as a pop-up in a United Kingdom shopping center. The attraction is located in the former North Face unit on the upper mall and is open to the public.
The Mechanics of the Sport
Players enter a real-world court to participate in digital combat. They wear AR headsets and sensors on their wrists to track movement. This gear allows users to fire virtual energy balls, deploy shields, and dodge incoming attacks from opponents. The experience mimics real-life sports by requiring physical movement rather than stationary control.
Created in Japan in 2014, the sport differs from typical gaming. Participants must move their bodies to succeed. The digital overlays are projected onto the environment, creating an active, fast-paced environment for shoppers. HADO represents a shift toward blending active play with retail environments to attract foot traffic.
Experience Options for Visitors
Two distinct modes are available for those who visit the pop-up. Player Versus Player mode pits teams of up to three people against each other. Each round lasts 80 seconds. The team that manages to land the most hits wins. This mode rewards quick reflexes and coordination.
Another option is the Monster Battle mode. This allows individuals or teams of four to face off against virtual dragons and bosses across different levels. Players advance through stages until they reach the final boss. Both modes are available for free to any visitor.
Retail Strategy and Public Access
The installation is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Sunday hours run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. No pre-booking is required for those who want to play, making the experience accessible to the casual shopper. The pop-up remains in place until August 30, 2026.
Michelle Menezes, the centre director at Highcross Leicester, noted that the move is part of an effort to bring new, unique experiences to shoppers. The mall has hosted previous activations, such as Scalextric racing and dance showcases, to encourage engagement. Retail spaces are increasingly turning to these events to replace traditional storefronts with activity-based destinations. The industry is watching to see if such events effectively sustain long-term mall interest.