Blockchain gaming has been steadily growing, but it still hasn’t quite reached the mainstream gaming world. One key element missing from most Web3 titles is inspiration. In order to expand the Web3 gaming ecosystem and attract a broader audience, developers need to create a “wow” moment that can go viral and become a part of gaming history. Much like the fighting game genre had its iconic moment with EVO Moment 37, Web3 gaming needs its own unforgettable moment.
Back in 2004, EVO, a fighting game tournament, witnessed a magical moment where two legendary players competed against each other. During the match, Daigo Umehara pulled off a move that was considered impossible at the time. This moment, known as EVO Moment 37, captivated players worldwide and showcased the joy of fighting games. It became a major trigger for wide audiences to take fighting games seriously. Web3 gaming studios need to add that same level of inspiration and potential for “wow” moments to their products if they want to capture the interest of mainstream audiences.
One recent example of a Web3 game making waves is ZeptoLab’s partnership with The Sandbox to bring the popular character Om Nom from the Cut the Rope franchise into the metaverse. Cut the Rope was a game that played a crucial role in the early days of mobile gaming, attracting mainstream audiences with its vivid visuals, cute characters, and innovative gameplay using touch screens. By bringing Om Nom to the metaverse, ZeptoLab hopes to transport players into a whole new world while also evoking a sense of nostalgia and providing fresh challenges. This kind of partnership and integration of beloved characters can help create those “wow” moments that Web3 gaming needs.
Another development in the Web3 gaming world is the introduction of Mavis Hub: Greenlight by Axie Infinity creator Sky Mavis. This program allows developers to share their early game builds with the community and includes a voting system for players to choose their favorite games. This not only drives competition between developers but also provides valuable feedback from the community. Similar exercises in Web2 gaming, like Steam Greenlight, have been successful in streamlining the game development process and engaging players. Mavis Hub: Greenlight aims to do the same for Web3 gaming, ultimately creating more exciting and innovative games for players to enjoy.
Aelf, a layer-1 blockchain network, is also making moves in the gaming world with its Aelevate program. This program offers grants of up to $150,000 to Web2 studios to help them transition to blockchain technology and create games on the Aelf network. With the projected growth of the blockchain gaming market, Aelf recognizes the potential and aims to support studios in integrating blockchain technology into their games. The program provides technical support, mentorships, and fundraising opportunities to assist developers in navigating the Web3 frontier. By incentivizing studios to join the dark side (blockchain gaming), Aelf hopes to break down the barriers and foster innovation in the gaming industry.
Lastly, let’s not forget about the games themselves. Nitro Nation: World Tour by Mythical Games is a free Web3 drag racing game that combines simple gameplay mechanics with beautiful graphics. Players can upgrade and tune their cars, customize their vehicles, and race against others in intense drag races. Web3 elements come into play with the introduction of NFT cars, which players can acquire through in-game purchases or the marketplace. These NFT cars come with better stats, providing an edge in races. However, it’s important to note that the game is still perfectly playable without NFT cars, ensuring that mainstream free-to-play players aren’t excluded from the experience.
In summary, Web3 gaming is in need of its own “EVO Moment 37” that can captivate mainstream audiences and propel the industry forward. By adding inspiration, creating “wow” moments, and incorporating aspects of virality into their products, Web3 gaming studios have the potential to attract a broader audience. Partnerships like ZeptoLab’s collaboration with The Sandbox, programs like Mavis Hub: Greenlight, and initiatives like Aelf’s Aelevate program are all steps in the right direction. Additionally, exciting games like Nitro Nation: World Tour showcase the potential of Web3 gaming. With continued innovation and a focus on creating unforgettable experiences, the Web3 gaming ecosystem can thrive and make its mark in gaming history.
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