Metaverse Applications and Impacts: A Synthesis of Recent Empirical Studies

Abstract

The metaverse has emerged as a transformative digital ecosystem, integrating virtual, augmented, and extended realities to redefine how individuals and organizations interact, learn, and conduct business. Despite increasing academic and industry attention, the metaverse’s real-world impact remains fragmented due to limited empirical evidence. This study conducts a systematic synthesis of 25 empirical studies published between 2023 and 2025, spanning domains such as education, consumer behavior, social development, digital investment, and organizational training. The findings reveal five core themes—adoption drivers, user experience, economic behavior, social impact, and platform usability—shaped by theoretical frameworks such as the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Self-Determination Theory (SDT), and Flow Theory. While survey-based research dominates the field, innovative hybrid methods like SEM-ANN and fsQCA are gaining traction. This paper proposes a conceptual framework that connects behavioral, contextual, and technological dimensions of metaverse engagement. Key research gaps include the need for longitudinal and cross-cultural studies, deeper investigation of negative impacts, and expanded application of experimental methods. The study offers a future research agenda to guide scholars and practitioners in unlocking the metaverse’s full potential.