Popular blockchain-based battle royale Off the Grid is marking a significant shift in web3 gaming as it reaches mainstream success on the Epic Games Store.
As the first web3 game to achieve top rankings on the platform, it has managed to draw traditional gaming audiences who may now be more receptive to blockchain features.
With a gameplay-centered approach, Off the Grid avoids leading with crypto-based assets or NFTs—unlike many web3 games—prioritizing an engaging player experience.
What drove the success of Off the Grid?
Industry experts credit Off the Grid’s popularity to its focus on gameplay over blockchain elements.
“To achieve broad adoption, you need to focus on the gamer and what brings value to them,” said Hans Andersson, Chief Business Officer at Moonray Studios.
By emphasizing unique battle royale mechanics, Off the Grid quickly gained traction on social media, with viral clips drawing players’ attention.
Notably, Gunzilla Games, the game’s developer, delayed any crypto integrations, allowing players to engage without immediate blockchain exposure.
How is blockchain being implemented in the game?
Gunzilla Games had planned to introduce a token economy and item marketplace on the GUNZ network incrementally.
This low-profile integration reflects a growing trend in web3—focusing on gameplay first and incorporating blockchain features later.
Whilst Off the Grid has been positively received, it still faces challenges. Early access feedback has flagged performance issues, especially on PC, and highlighted some underdeveloped gameplay elements. Nonetheless, the early access model enables ongoing updates to address these concerns.
Why is this significant to blockchain gaming?
Off the Grid’s gradual approach may set a new standard for blockchain-based games seeking mainstream appeal.
“Thousands of web3 games have been announced, and few teams are really able to deliver,” noted Nicolas Pouard, Vice President of Ubisoft’s Strategic Innovation Lab and Head of Blockchain Initiative.
By focusing first on gameplay, Off the Grid bridges the gap between traditional and web3 gamers. Its presence on major platforms, including PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, also hints at the potential reach of blockchain games within traditional gaming ecosystems, potentially influencing wider industry adoption of blockchain elements in the future.
Blockchain evangelist. Content creator & graphic design hobbyist. Loves gaming!