Pro Gamers Ready for Blockchain Games
Pro Gamers Ready for Blockchain Games
The Rise of Blockchain Technology in the Gaming Industry
Blockchain technology has been making waves in various industries, and the gaming sector is no exception. While some game developers have been resistant to its integration, many gamers, including professional players, are embracing the potential benefits that blockchain can offer. This article explores the growing trend of blockchain in the gaming industry, providing insights from gamers and experts, and discussing the potential impact on the gaming ecosystem.
Embracing Web3 in Gaming
Professional Dota 2 player Erik “Tofu” Engel, who has achieved remarkable success in the competitive gaming scene, is among those excited about the possibilities of blockchain technology in gaming. Engel acknowledges that blockchain gaming is still a relatively new and expanding topic but expresses his eagerness to explore it further in the future. He believes that if blockchain can improve gaming experiences and make them more rewarding, it is definitely something to look out for.
Engel highlights the player-centric features of Web3, emphasizing how they can benefit gamers. He eagerly awaits the next steps taken by gaming companies to leverage blockchain technology in creating a more immersive and rewarding gaming environment. Another professional gamer, Max “Maxeew” Ng, echoes Engel’s sentiments, stating that any game can benefit from the integration of new technologies and features that reward users for their time and expenditure.
Resistance from Game Developers
Despite the enthusiasm of gamers, some major game developers have shown resistance to blockchain-based games. Valve Corporation, the developer behind popular titles like Dota 2 and Half-Life, removed blockchain-based games from its Steam gaming marketplace in 2021. The company revised its guidelines and banned games that issued cryptocurrencies or non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
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Joseph Turner, co-founder of Gaimin Gladiators, acknowledges that the emergence of blockchain-based games initially spooked many major gaming publishers. However, he believes that their stance is likely to change over time. Turner urges blockchain projects to go beyond merely integrating blockchain into games and actively engage with the competitive gaming industry. He envisions a future where blockchain-based games become mainstream, coexisting with traditional gaming experiences.
Empowering Traditional Gaming Ecosystems
Walter Lee, BNB Chain’s growth partner and GameFi lead, sees immense potential in Web3 and blockchain technology to empower traditional gaming ecosystems. He highlights two significant use cases: the tokenization of in-game assets and on-chain verifiable random number generation.
Tokenization allows in-game assets to be represented as unique digital tokens stored on a blockchain. This ensures secure ownership and enables players to freely trade or sell their virtual possessions. On-chain verifiable random number generation adds transparency and fairness to gaming outcomes, preventing cheating or manipulation.
Lee also emphasizes the opportunities that Web3 offers to professional gamers. It enables them to develop their personal brands and generate income through decentralized finance (DeFi) mechanisms. As new game studios emerge with exciting titles, Lee predicts the potential for the creation of new esports leagues. This shift would reduce reliance on esports firms, providing players with more autonomy and control over their careers.
Conclusion
Blockchain technology is revolutionizing the gaming industry, despite initial resistance from some game developers. Gamers, including professional players, recognize the potential benefits of integrating blockchain into gaming experiences. The player-centric features of Web3 and the ability to tokenize in-game assets bring new dimensions to the gaming ecosystem. While traditional gaming companies are cautious, the tide is likely to turn as blockchain projects actively engage with the competitive gaming industry. The rise of blockchain gaming presents exciting opportunities for gamers to build sustainable careers and for the industry to evolve in innovative ways.