What Is Blockchain Gaming? Discover Top Emerging Web3 Games

The gaming industry, valued at $282 billion in 2024, is on track to reach $363 billion by 2027. While traditional gaming has seen immense growth and financial success, it’s constrained by one major drawback—centralization. In conventional gaming, developers retain full control over in-game assets, preventing players from using them elsewhere.

Blockchain gaming is changing the landscape by introducing decentralization, transparency, and player ownership.  But what exactly is blockchain gaming?

Quick Insights

• Blockchain gaming combines blockchain with gaming for decentralization and player ownership.

• Features include asset ownership, interoperability, and NFTs.

• Play-to-earn models offer financial rewards.

• Emerging blockchain games include Cambria: Duel Arena, Spellborne, Rumble Kong League, and Wilder World.

What is Blockchain Gaming?

Blockchain gaming, also called Web3 gaming, refers to video games that include blockchain elements – such as on-chain items and currencies.

These games typically are not built directly on the blockchain. Rather, they use NFT technology and the blockchain to assign ownership of in-game items and currencies to the players.

Created in 2017, CryptoKitties was the first prominent blockchain game. The game saw players collect and breed NFT kitties, which could later be sold on NFT marketplaces.

Key Features of Blockchain Gaming

Ownership of In-Game Assets

In traditional games, assets like characters or items belong solely to the developers. Even with significant investment, players lack true ownership. Blockchain flips the script by using NFTs to provide verifiable ownership. For instance, in titles like Axie Infinity and The Sandbox, players control their items, characters, and land, which they can freely sell or trade on decentralized marketplaces.

Cross-Game Interoperability

Traditional gaming restricts assets to their original platform. Blockchain eliminates these barriers, allowing items from one game to be used in another. Blockchain standards like ERC-721 and ERC-1155 enable this functionality. Enjin is a notable example of fostering interoperability in gaming.

Integration of Cryptocurrencies and NFTs

Blockchain games reward players with tokens or NFTs that can hold real-world value. For example, platforms like Gods Unchained allow users to earn and trade valuable NFT cards, integrating gameplay with financial incentives.

Play-to-Earn Mechanics

Blockchain introduces opportunities for financial rewards through play-to-earn models. Players earn tokens or NFTs by participating in games, which can be sold or traded for cash. These mechanics can transform gaming into a source of income, particularly in developing regions.

The Building Blocks of Blockchain Games

Blockchain Technology

Blockchain underpins blockchain gaming, offering features like transparency, security, and immutable ownership. Web3 games leverage blockchains such as Ronin to provide seamless transactions while minimizing fees.

Smart Contracts

Smart contracts automate key processes such as trading, rewards distribution, and auctions. Platforms like Decentraland use them to facilitate secure transactions for virtual assets like land.

NFTs in Gaming

NFTs serve as unique digital representations of in-game assets, such as characters, items, or land. NFTs enhance player interaction and provide creators with direct monetization channels.

Emerging Blockchain Games Worth Watching

Cambria: Duel Arena

Cambria offers players an intense 1v1 dueling experience where strategy and quick thinking are essential. Players negotiate duel terms, choosing weapons and tactics before entering combat. Stance mechanics, such as Accurate, Aggressive, and Defensive, add depth to gameplay. Special attacks demand quick reactions, keeping players engaged. Assets like Arena Tokens or Blast ETH can be wagered, with winners taking the spoils. Cambria’s integration with the Blast blockchain ensures secure transactions. Future plans include minting rare collectibles as NFTs, further enhancing player engagement.

Spellborne

Spellborne is a pixel-art MMORPG that combines monster taming, turn-based combat, and community-driven storytelling. Players capture monsters using sync crystals, train them, and engage in strategic battles. Beyond combat, players can farm, fish, and gather resources to craft items or trade. The game’s standout features include customizable player-owned lands and a monster breeding system that deepens the gameplay experience. Its evolving narrative allows players to influence the game’s direction based on their choices.

Rumble Kong League

Rumble Kong League merges blockchain technology with the thrill of basketball. Players compete in fast-paced 3×3 matches using NFT characters known as Kongs, each with unique traits that affect gameplay. Game modes include casual, ranked, and club-based matches, with ranked games offering play-to-earn rewards. The platform has partnered with brands like Gatorade to bring exclusive in-game content. These collaborations enhance the game’s appeal and provide players with a dynamic gaming environment.

Wilder World

Wilder World is a visually stunning 5D metaverse inspired by Miami and built on Unreal Engine 5. Players can explore the city of Wiami, participate in racing, engage in combat, and craft unique items. The WILD token powers the game’s economy, allowing players to customize vehicles, enter tournaments, and mint one-of-a-kind avatars. The game’s solar punk aesthetic and layered storytelling make it a unique addition to the blockchain gaming space.

Forgotten Runiverse

Forgotten Runiverse is a pixel-art MMORPG set on the Ronin blockchain. The game’s mechanics include player-owned land NFTs, allowing for customization and resource generation. Players can craft spells, weapons, and buildings, adding a layer of strategy to gameplay. Inspired by classic titles like RuneScape, Forgotten Runiverse combines nostalgia with modern blockchain mechanics, creating a richly interactive gaming experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is blockchain gaming?

Blockchain gaming involves blockchain-based games where players control and trade assets like NFTs or tokens, shifting control from developers to the users.

Is blockchain gaming a good investment?

It can be, especially for projects with strong teams, active communities, and innovative features. Due diligence is crucial due to market risks.

Can players earn money with blockchain games?

Yes, many blockchain games allow players to earn cryptocurrency or NFTs, which can be traded for real-world money.

What industries benefit from blockchain?

Blockchain supports decentralized applications in finance, gaming, and digital identity, offering user control, privacy, and transparency.

Blockchain gaming is reshaping how players interact with digital assets and experiences, offering opportunities for both entertainment and financial rewards. Whether it’s earning tokens, owning assets, or exploring innovative gameplay, blockchain marks a significant shift in the gaming world.