Creative technology studio Conductor has collaborated with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) to create Glow Court, an outdoor digital LED sports court, aboard Norwegian Aqua.
Glow Court is an outdoor digital arena where guests play directly on a fully interactive LED floor and adjacent LED wall, with real-time reactive media immersing them into the action. The court responds to players through native interactivity, with no need for wearables, headsets or handheld devices.
Delivering this experience meant overcoming significant technical challenges. No existing LED technology could meet the demands of open-air maritime use, from saltwater corrosion to direct sun exposure and constant foot traffic. Conductr developed a bespoke LED display technology that is marine-grade, impact-resistant and fully weatherproof. Adding interactivity to an outdoor LED installation required an equally innovative approach.
Conductr created a two-tiered proprietary motion tracking system that dynamically and accurately follows every guest movement. Using advanced sensors and Conductr’s custom software engine, the system enables native interaction, so the technology is invisible and players engage instinctively.
Glow Court delivers experiences from sports-themed skill games to immersive fitness challenges and original digital gameplay. The experience is operated by the guests who choose from a library of dynamic activities, switching between traditional sports overlays, original gaming media and entertainment scenarios at the touch of a button, powered by Conductr’s proprietary software engine.
Within the games, guests are further immersed in the action through interactive elements, including haptic feedback, dynamic lighting and augmented reality media overlays. The court’s design optimises ship space, utilising the underused top deck to draw guests into an interactive and social hub. Guests can book 15-minute sessions, with flexible extensions based on availability, ensuring accessible and personalised experiences.