This article was previously published on BCG.com

Although the metaverse is in its infancy, tech giants such as Microsoft and Meta have spent billions on metaverse components and startups such as Roblox have also raised significant funds. These and other ‘constructor’ companies are vying to shape the architecture of the nascent metaverse industry by creating conditions that favour their success. What’s more, they are defining sources of value, establishing the balance of power among players and shaping how traditional companies hoping to monetise metaverses will benefit. The stakes are high for leaders of traditional companies.

Four visions of the metaverse

To make the right investment decisions, they’ll need to understand the competing visions being constructed and how each model aligns with their company’s strategy.