In a recent Discord post, the founder of independent Minecraft server Satlantis, David Dineno, announced that the server has been asked by Mojang, a subsidiary of Microsoft, to remove its play-to-earn features. Satlantis had introduced a model that allowed players to earn Bitcoin by completing in-game quests, despite Mojang’s previous ban on NFTs. The server complied with the request and removed the feature, but Dineno expressed disappointment with the situation, stating that the play-to-earn model had been successful and that the efforts put into the game should not be “forsaken by a few dinosaurs at some conglomerate.”
Although the removal of the play-to-earn features was a setback for Satlantis, the community is actively exploring alternative platforms that support innovation rather than stifling it. Players were advised to withdraw their earned satoshis, and Satlantis developers have promised to honor all in-game assets, including sats, prize pools, players’ premium battle pass status, and other transferable data. Despite the removal of play-to-earn features, the Minecraft server will continue to operate as the team transitions to the next phase.
The incident with Satlantis raises questions about how blockchain can be integrated into the world of esports. Nicolas Gilot, co-CEO and co-founder of blockchain-based online gaming hub Ultra Arena, believes that esports need to evolve to generate sustainable profits. He suggests that blockchain can play a pivotal role in creating a better and more sustainable product for viewers and sponsors by expanding participation beyond the elite level. Gilot attended the major gaming conference Gamescom, where he saw a high level of interest in blockchain technology from game developers, publishers, and investors looking for new ways to navigate the challenges facing the video game industry.
Ultra Arena’s esports hub aims to help gamers attract sponsors earlier in their careers and provide opportunities for growth and improvement. Gilot emphasizes that blockchain technology can create a player persona across all aspects of gaming, including competitive gaming, purchasing games, collecting digital assets, and interacting with other players.
The adoption of blockchain technology in esports could help smaller teams, events, and sponsorships become more viable. Smart contracts can streamline administrative tasks, distribute prizes and earnings, and increase confidence among publishers, brands, and influencers to participate at all levels.
Moving on to the topic of Apple’s new iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, the devices have generated excitement among gamers due to their enhanced gaming capabilities. The iPhone 15 Pro can handle demanding game titles such as Resident Evil 4, Resident Evil Village, Death Stranding, and Assassin’s Creed Mirage directly on the device’s system, without the need for external layers. Additionally, the phone supports hardware-accelerated ray tracing, which enhances dynamic lighting effects in games. The iPhone 15 Pro can also display games on 4K monitors through upscaling and is compatible with third-party gamepads like the PlayStation DualSense controller.
The introduction of the new iPhone models has raised questions about how Web3 game developers can leverage these advancements. The powerful system of the iPhone 15 Pro can be utilized to create mobile games with better graphics and more immersive gameplay. Additionally, the device can make it easier for developers to port Web3 games from PC to mobile platforms without sacrificing features and graphics.
However, there are challenges to overcome, particularly in terms of economics. Apple currently has strict rules for NFT apps, requiring in-app purchases subject to a 30% commission, and does not allow apps to support crypto payments. Web3 gaming companies will need to navigate these restrictions to fully take advantage of the new iPhone’s capabilities and deliver innovative Web3 experiences.
Lastly, Formula, the organization behind the Formula 1 racing series, is making a second attempt at entering the world of Web3 gaming. Their previous game, F1 Delta Time, ceased operations in March 2022. Now, Formula is partnering with Animoca Brands to develop Formula E: High Voltage, a game focused on the Formula E motorsport championship featuring fully electric-powered race cars. Players will take on the role of a team principal, making strategic decisions and managing their Formula E team with the goal of becoming champions.
These recent developments highlight the growing intersection between blockchain technology and the gaming industry. From Minecraft servers to esports platforms to mobile gaming devices, blockchain is being integrated into various aspects of the gaming ecosystem, promising new opportunities for innovation, monetization, and player engagement.
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