The present study aims to examine the effects of participation in digital recreation activities on leadership styles and innovative behavior, as well as to determine the mediating role of leadership styles in this relationship. A quantitative relational survey design was employed. The study sample consisted of 229 participants selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using the Digital Recreation Scale, the Leadership Styles Scale, and the Innovative Behavior Scale. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation analysis, simple and multiple linear regression analyses, and mediation analysis. The findings indicate that engagement in digital recreation has a statistically significant and positive effect on innovative behavior. Digital recreation was also found to be a significant positive predictor of leadership styles, while leadership styles demonstrated a strong and significant influence on innovative behavior. Results from multiple regression analyses revealed that the effect of digital recreation on innovative behavior decreased when leadership styles were included in the model yet remained statistically significant. Mediation analysis further confirmed that leadership styles partially mediate the relationship between digital recreation and innovative behavior. Overall, the results suggest that participation in digital recreation activities plays a meaningful role in enhancing individuals’ leadership perceptions and fostering innovative behavior. In an organizational context, digital recreation can therefore be considered a supportive mechanism for leadership development and the promotion of innovative practices.