Web3 gaming chain Abstract faces a new wave of criticism after developers of blockchain game Blast ‘Em accused the platform of biased treatment, blocked collaborations, and mishandling of a high-profile project launch.
The renewed dispute follows Abstract’s support of Penguin Gotchi, a virtual pet game whose token launch led to significant losses for creators and players. According to multiple individuals involved, the token went live without adequate warning or disclosure.
The Blast ‘Em team alleges that Abstract selectively supports projects tied to its internal marketing network, whilst excluding or undermining others. They further claim that they were falsely discredited and prevented from working with creators after being removed from Abstract’s community spaces.
Key Insights
- Blast ‘Em renews allegations against Abstract over creator bias
- Penguin Gotchi token launched before gameplay, causing user losses
- Abstract’s marketing lead admits to poor project handling
What is the issue all about?
The Blast ‘Em developers published a statement on June 18 accusing Abstract of sidelining projects that don’t align with its internal structure or use its preferred creators.
The post specifically named Abstract Marketing Lead Phin Totten and Kickz, who is said to work with both Abstract and the Penguin Gotchi project. Blast ‘Em alleges that both played roles in previously restricting support for their game and influencing perceptions behind the scenes.
They also accused Abstract of double standards, citing the platform’s public distancing from Blast ‘Em whilst continuing to promote projects like Penguin Gotchi and Bigcoin, which later sparked user complaints. They claimed that despite no clear proof of wrongdoing, Abstract was quick to label Blast ‘Em a scam whilst remaining silent when other projects caused financial losses.
What happened with Gotchi?
Penguin Gotchi, a virtual pet game promoted via Abstract, launched its $GOTCHI token prior to releasing its gameplay. According to content creators involved in early promotion, they were added to a group shortly before launch and were unaware of the token drop’s timing. Many stated they were not paid, did not receive early contract addresses, and ultimately lost money as the token price dropped shortly after launch.
An official statement from Penguin Gotchi said no KOLs were compensated or given special access and blamed the outcome on fast-moving market conditions.
The Blast ‘Em team used this incident as an example of what they say is Abstract’s inconsistent behaviour—promoting high-risk projects without public due diligence, then failing to take responsibility when outcomes were negative.
What has been the response from Abstract?
Abstract has not released an official response as a platform. However, Phin acknowledged that Abstract had made mistakes in supporting Penguin Gotchi, writing that creators involved were also misled and that “no blame should be put on them.” He added that the platform would rethink how it supports early-stage or experimental projects.
Meanwhile, Kickz posted a series of tweets denying the accusations against him. He claimed he had been the target of “misinformation” and said he had no involvement in insider trading or suppressing creator partnerships.
Others also confirmed that many creators lost money and that their feedback on the game went unaddressed.
Blockchain evangelist. Content creator & graphic design hobbyist. Loves gaming!