Observing Virtual Worlds: Multi-method Analysis of Skills, Challenges and Emerging Trends

This report provides new information and evidence to support the European strategy for Virtual Worlds and Web 4.0. It describes results of a study that examines skills supply, demand and contextual aspects of the Virtual Worlds (VWs) industry in the EU, drawing on three complementary sources of data: a survey of 32 VWs organisations conducted in autumn 2025; VWs-related education and training offer (2024-2025); and VWs-related skills demand in online job ads (2020-2023). A key finding is the cross-sectoral nature of the VWs industry, with services very commonly provided by small and medium-sized enterprises. The combination of information sources provides contextualised insights into the nature and challenges of meeting skills demand in the VWs industry – which are evident in recruitment, project implementation and retention stages. Five main conclusions arise from the study. First, it is suggested to increase relevant education and training that is targeted at the most-demanded roles identified in this study, particularly through short professional courses, which should enable cross-sectoral applications and incorporate relevant elements of AI skills. Second, results indicate a need to enhance the strategic autonomy of the European VWs industry, through supporting open-source software solutions as well as European infrastructure and standards. Third, given the growing relevance of AI technology to the sector, it is suggested to identify mechanisms by which a beneficial spillover effect to the VWs industry can be supported. Fourth, it is suggested to further examine the challenges and needs of small and medium enterprises working in the VWs industry, given their important role in the VWs ecosystem. Fifth and finally, the emerging nature of the VWs industry and the triangulation of the three data sources confirm the need to avoid reliance on single sources of data for skills demand.