A decade ago, blockchain was the property of cryptocurrencies. The innovation was meant to protect sensitive information when mining or trading currency.
But why keep blockchain to finance only? Why not extend that to other forms of design, such as gaming?
Indeed, many game developers are following that approach. UK and US game developers now use blockchain elements as standard in their game development (based on a study launched this week). Commissioned by blockchain platform and software kit developer Startis, the study shows that NFT and blockchain popularity (especially with the popularity of play-to-earn crypto market approaches) are changing how games are being made.
But why are gaming companies adding blockchain transactions to their game? The study implies that those companies use that approach to break into newer markets.
Video Game Design: Incorporating NFTs and Blockchain
It’s a new trend, but it seems like it’ll last a long time.
A recently released study on Stratis (by the research company Opinium) presents a survey. Results indicate that out of 197 questioned subjects in the US and UK (all businesses), 58% are starting to add blockchain systems into their game development. Also, the same study indicates that 48% are adding in NFTs.
This serves to show how blockchain, which is strengthening the link between players and their digital environment, is also creeping into large gaming companies.
Some of the biggest in the industry (such as EA) see those new technologies as a large part of the industry’s future. The survey does confirm that trend, with over 70% of responses considering the use of blockchain technology, and 56% planning to do that within the next year.
But market access aside, are there other reasons for gaming companies to include blockchain technologies?
The answer is yes. The survey indicates that bringing value to gamers and innovation are two popular drives behind incorporating blockchain elements. Plus, with a pay-to-earn model, players feel more rewarded with concrete financial value, which can be seen as a third reason.
Indies Already Far Ahead With AAA Studios Joining the Trend
Stratis’ CEO Chris Trew has stated the following:
“With renowned platforms such as Epic welcoming blockchain-based games and NFTs, we certainly expect AAA studios to launch titles incorporating these technologies in the coming years. But there are so many indie game developers that will get there first.”
Many large game developers have been testing the waters with NFTs and blockchains. Big names include Electronic Arts, Ubisoft, Square Enix, etc. In fact, many independent studios are adopting those elements with great success. Axie Infinity is one such case, a game designed by Sky Mavis that popularized the play-to-earn model over the past year. The game does include NFT elements as monetization channels.
But that’s just the beginning of the trend. Over time, blockchain systems may become a standard element in video game designs. That’ll be determined by how the gaming market responds to those additions
