The sudden emergence and widespread acceptance of cryptocurrency have given rise to a brand-new genre of video games. So called Crypto Games/NFT Games. At its core, a crypto game is any video game that is based on cryptographic blockchain technologies. The cryptographic elements normally revolve around the use of various cryptocurrencies. NFTs that can be bought or sold through the game’s marketplace.
Due to their nature, crypto games are in most cases seen as play-to-earn games. The ability to earn money while playing has enticed many players. Resulting in crypto gaming becoming one of the most popular trends in the video gaming industry.
Crypto Games – A Rising Trend or Future Industry Standard?
The sudden rise of crypto gaming has been a polarizing question in the gaming industry. Some established game developers have expressed their interest in the trend, while others have completely denounced it. Industry giants like Electronic Arts, Ubisoft, and Square Enix have already announced planned forays into the crypto gaming market. Others, like Steam, have completely banned any blockchain-based games from their platform.
While it’s true that crypto gaming is still in its fledgling stage. The potential it has shown during its short existence is undeniable. With a low barrier of entry and ever-rising interest, It seems to be just a matter of time. Before crypto gaming evolves from a trend into a staple of the gaming industry. In the current market, players can make money off of crypto games daily.
Depending on the game, you could be facing a specific entry cost if you want to get started. There are free-to-play crypto games on the market, but in most cases, you will need to spend some money on premium features that unlock the pay-to-earn aspect. Ultimately, crypto games that revolve around the play-to-earn aspect should be seen as investments in their own right
To get you started on your journey let’s take a look at the top three games currently on the market. While popularity is not a deciding factor, it definitely adds a layer of security to a game. Apart from that, we will be taking into consideration the barrier of entry, potential profit, and overall appeal of the game in question.
1. The Sandbox
The Sandbox first started as your run-of-the-mill mobile game back in 2012. The game centered around a sandbox mode through which you could build your in-game universe from scratch.
Its foray into crypto gaming came back in 2018 when The Sandbox was acquired by Animoca Brands. After three years of development, The Sandbox returned, incorporating a Voxel-style metaverse blockchain platform with Ethereum backing. With an impressive list of partners that includes well-established gaming companies and celebrities alike, The Sandbox is looking like it’s here to stay.
Rise and NFTs
The Sandbox quickly became popular among mass audiences due to its resemblance to Minecraft. The Sandbox is a popular gaming platform that allows players to build, own, and monetize their gaming experience by creating NFTs that they can then sell on the Sandbox Marketplace using the in-game SAND token. The platform has gained popularity due to its similarity to Minecraft.
The SAND Token
The SAND token is the key to fully utilizing the Sandbox platform. It allows players to play different games, buy equipment or to customize their character. Additionally, it represents the only way for a player to own a piece of the Sandbox Metaverse. The token serves as a means of storage for different values included in the game, as well as the ability to stake them.
The Sandbox Marketplace
The Sandbox Marketplace is decentralized, requiring players to have a Wallet and an Ethereum address to play the game. The SAND token operates on Ethereum’s blockchain, providing a secure and transparent way for players to monetize their gaming experience.
Token Value and Game Rewards
With an ever-increasing number of players, different ways of earning money, a low barrier of entry, and a future that looks fairly bright, The Sandbox is our top pick when it comes to crypto games.
Owning Land
Sandbox Land is a digital piece of real estate in the game’s metaverse. Plots of land can be used to build games as well as other in-game assets. With only a limited number of land available in the Sandbox Metaverse, players can own land and rent it to other players.
Creating Assets
Create assets using the VoxEdit Voxel editor to earn money. The VoxEdit Voxel editor converts in-game assets into NFTs automatically, which players can then upload to the blockchain ecosystem and sell on the Sandbox Marketplace. This method enables players to create, exchange, and sell various assets on the Ethereum blockchain.
Creating Games
The Sandbox’s Game Maker allows players to build 3D games relatively easily. After creating a specific scenario, players can charge other players to play them. This allows players to monetize their creativity and game development skills.
2. Thetan Arena
Thetan Arena brings a whole new MOBA-themed spin on play-to-earn crypto games while adhering to gamers and esports fans alike. After first starting as an online MOBA called Heroes Strike back in September 2018, Vietnamese publisher WolfFun relaunched the game in September 2021 with blockchain-based play-to-earn mechanics under the name Thetan Arena. With more dynamic gameplay catered toward a wider audience, Thetan Arena is one of the most enticing crypto games available on the market currently.
Thetan Coin and Governance
Thetan Arena is a new and exciting game that features two different tokens called Thetan Coin (THC) and Thetan Gem (THG). Both tokens are based on the Binance Smart Chain and serve different purposes within the game. In this essay, we will discuss the roles and uses of THC and THG, as well as the game’s mechanics and overall gameplay.
Thetan Coin (THC)
Players earn Thetan Coin (THC) as the primary utility token in Thetan Arena through battles in various game modes, in-game quests, and ranking rewards. Players can use THC to progress in the game by purchasing Premium heroes, items, skins, and weapons through the in-game marketplace or via loot boxes. However, THC also carries some value, but mainly serves as a utility to advance in the game.
Thetan Gem (THG)
Thetan Gem (THG) is more valuable than THC and functions as the game’s governance coin. Players earn THG through special events, tournaments, and trading in the Thetan Arena marketplace. They can use THG to vote on vital decisions for the game, such as new features and updates. Moreover, players can also use THG to buy exclusive in-game items and items that aren’t available for purchase with THC.
Gameplay and Mechanics
The game itself is free to play and very newbie-friendly. Players start with free base heroes they can use to play, earn different in-game rewards, and level up. However, players can purchase Premium heroes, items, skins, and weapons through the in-game marketplace or via loot boxes to advance in the game.
Players can buy both coins with real money, accelerating their in-game progress, which does add a certain dose of pay-to-win to the game. Although the pay-to-win aspect can make your life much easier, it is still possible to earn money from Thetan Arena in a free-to-play manner.
3. Gods Unchained
Gods Unchained is a turn-based fantasy card game play-to-earn crypto game that has been a staple of since late 2018. The game is fairly similar to other popular card game titles like Hearthstone and Gwent. Gods Unchained is based on an Ethereum blockchain, with each card in the game being a unique NFT in its own right. Cards can be obtained via in-game packs or bought individually on the game’s marketplace.
GODS Unchained Token and NFTs Marketplace
Gods Unchained, a popular online card game, recently introduced its own token, the Gods Credence ($GODS), which replaced Ethereum as the token used for in-game purchases. The $GODS token provides players with various benefits such as crafting NFTs, purchasing packs from the Gods Unchained marketplace, and earning even more rewards by holding the tokens in Immutable X.
Purchasing Card Packs and Chests
The price of card packs and card chests in the game ranges from $2.49 to $149.99, depending on the rarity of the cards. Players can purchase these packs and chests using the $GODS token.
Obtaining Individual Cards
Players can obtain individual cards from other players through the in-game marketplace. They can buy and sell these cards using the $GODS token.
Gameplay and Mechanics
When it comes to the actual gameplay, Gods Unchained copies Hearthstone almost to a fault. New players will begin with 70 free cards in total and will get additional free packs as they level up. Players compete against each other with decks numbering thirty cards that fit the theme of their chosen God.
The turn-based gameplay centered around health and mana consumption is almost identical to Hearthstone’s, but with a small twist. The mana lock mechanic present in the game slows down the consumption of mana as the match progresses, making the mid-to-late gameplay more dynamic than the one we’ve seen in Hearthstone.
Reward System
While the game mechanics are fairly easy to learn, Gods Unchained has a steep learning curve when it comes to the upper echelons of the rankings.
There are three different ways players can earn money while playing Gods Unchained:
- Playing the Game – You get a certain amount of GODS Tokens every time you play and win a game of Gods Unchained.
- Selling Cards – By far the most lucrative way of earning real money. Card prices vary depending on quality, but have been known to go for upwards of $50,000 USD.
- In-Game Reward Systems – Ranked Games and the Gauntlet of the Gods can give additional lucrative rewards to your total tally.
Ultimately, Gods Unchained is a bit of a slower grand than the two previously mentioned games. With a proven track record, interesting gameplay, and NFTs galore, it definitely has its place at the top of the crypto gaming world.
Conclusion on Play-To-Earn Crypto Games
The incorporation of cryptocurrency and NFTs into video games has opened up a new world of possibilities for players. Crypto games, also known as play-to-earn games, provide players with the opportunity to earn money while playing. This has led to a rise in popularity in the crypto gaming trend. As the technology continues to evolve and more games integrate these elements, it will be interesting to see how the industry continues to adapt and grow. It is certain that crypto games are here to stay and will continue to be a major force in the video gaming industry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are crypto games?
Crypto games, also known as blockchain games or NFT games, are video games that incorporate cryptocurrency and NFTs (non-fungible tokens) into their gameplay. These elements allow players to earn money while playing and trade unique in-game items.
Are crypto games secure?
Yes, crypto games use blockchain technology to ensure the security and authenticity of in-game items and transactions.
What is the future of crypto games?
As the technology continues to evolve and more games integrate these elements, it will be interesting to see how the industry continues to adapt and grow. It is certain that crypto games are here to stay and will continue to be a major force in the video gaming industry.
How do I purchase NFTs in crypto games?
NFTs can typically be purchased through the game’s marketplace using in-game currency or cryptocurrency. They can also be obtained through in-game rewards and events.
Are crypto games only about earning money?
No, crypto games offer a full gaming experience with gameplay, story, and objectives. The ability to earn money is just an added bonus.
How do I earn money while playing crypto games?
Players can earn money by selling unique in-game items, such as NFTs, on the game’s marketplace or through external marketplaces. They can also earn cryptocurrency through in-game rewards and quests.
Do I need to own cryptocurrency to play crypto games?
Not necessarily, many crypto games offer in-game currency that can be used to purchase items and NFTs. However, owning cryptocurrency can provide additional benefits such as trading and earning rewards.
