Web3 Gaming Trends and Developments
This article compiles recent news snippets about Web3 and crypto gaming, covering topics like MapleStory's big investment, changes in Epic Games Store's offerings, and new game launches, providing a real-time look at the industry.
MapleStory's Leap into Web3 with a $100 Million Investment
MapleStory, a legendary name in the MMORPG genre, is pioneering a new era with Nexon's massive $100 million investment into its Web3 venture, MapleStory Universe. This initiative marks a major shift from its traditional Web2 environment to a blockchain-based ecosystem using Polygon Supernets. The MapleStory Universe will feature various games and applications interacting with NFTs, changing the gaming experience. Moreover, the key components include MapleStory N (a blockchain-infused MMORPG), MapleStory N Mobile, MapleStory N Worlds (a sandbox platform), and MapleStory N SDK for decentralized applications. Importantly, Nexon's vision extends beyond technological innovation, aiming to create lifelong gaming communities and self-sustaining ecosystems. The transition to a blockchain space is a significant leap for MapleStory, which aims to enhance its in-game economy and user experience with the new funding of $100 million.
Epic Games Store Removes "Gods Unchained" Due to Adults Only Rating
Immutable's flagship web3 game, "Gods Unchained," faced a setback as it was removed from the Epic Games Store following an "Adults Only" rating by the ESRB. This rating, attributed to the game's Play-to-Earn crypto features, limits its audience and raises questions about the integration of blockchain games on mainstream platforms. Given this, "Gods Unchained" allows players to earn $GODS tokens, tradeable for Ethereum, and acquire NFTs that represent in-game cards. The game's removal shows the challenges of introducing blockchain features in traditional gaming spaces. The decision is not based on conventional concerns like nudity or violence but is connected to the innovative Play-to-Earn (P2E) crypto features.
Gala Games' Champions Arena: A New Era in Blockchain Gaming
Gala Games' Champions Arena, a turn-based mobile RPG, is making notable strides in combining web3 technology. Gala Games published the game after OneUniverse/Uniflow developed it. Also, it offers over 100 unique NFT Champions and various NFT items. Overall, the game is designed to be casual-friendly and addictive, with a core gameplay loop that allows players to enjoy features without immediate pressure for NFT ownership. Champions Arena represents Gala Games' commitment to bridging the gap between web2 and web3 gaming, providing an accessible journey into the future of play. Not to mention, the game allows players to utilize minted NFT characters in the PvP arena, earning Victory Points for daily GALA rewards.
Metaverse Pioneer Improbable Sells Multiplayer Group Amid Web3 Struggles
Improbable, a prominent metaverse company, recently made a significant move by selling one of its key gaming ventures, The Multiplayer Group (MPG), to London-listed video game developer Keywords Studios for £76.5 million ($97.1 million). This deal, which closed on a Sunday, marks a notable shift in Improbable's strategy within the Web3 gaming space. The Multiplayer Group, known for its multiplayer game services, was a substantial part of Improbable's portfolio.
Web3 Gaming Poised for a Bull Market Boost in 2024
Web3 gaming is set for a significant upsurge in 2024, with industry executives predicting the onboarding of tens of millions of gamers. Animoca Brands and Ambrus Studio founders anticipate a growth year, driven by the commercial release of several blockchain games. The casual Web3 gaming space, particularly mobile games, is expected to see the most activity. Interestingly, Asia is projected to lead this surge due to its more welcoming crypto regulations and greater acceptance of GameFi technology. This bullish outlook for Web3 gaming marks the sector's potential for massive adoption and innovation.
We've reviewed several news snippets touching on the most important happenings in Web3 gaming, from investment shifts to game developments. These stories give us a direct insight into what's new and noteworthy in this space right now.
