As Web3 games gain traction, the question arises: how do developers bring these games to the vast, traditional gaming audience? Etcheto, a key figure in the industry, highlights the necessity of meeting players where they already are — on platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, and Steam. To onboard gamers into the Web3 space, developers must ensure their games are accessible on these popular platforms, or they risk limiting their reach and scalability. Without the presence on mainstream platforms, blockchain-based games will struggle to connect with gamers on a large scale.
One notable example of this approach is Moonray Studios’ Moonray — an Ethereum-based multiplayer battle arena game. Since last July, Moonray has been available for PC on the Epic Games Store. It is now set to expand to Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 later this year, though the exact release dates are yet to be confirmed. The porting process is already in motion, with playtests expected to begin in the second half of 2025. Moonray is one of the few Web3 titles making its way to mainstream consoles, following the October early-access launch of Off The Grid, a first-person shooter, on Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5.
Etcheto believes Moonray has struck the right balance between cross-platform play and adhering to each platform’s rules. However, it hasn’t been easy for blockchain games to fit into the traditional platform ecosystem. In October 2021, Valve, the company behind Steam, removed blockchain-based games from its store, advising users not to publish crypto or NFT content.
AI in Gaming: A Tool or a Gimmick?
On the topic of AI, ArenaX Labs CEO Brandon Da Silva has voiced concerns about its potential misuse in games. Da Silva argues that AI will not scare away hardcore gamers, but using it as a gimmick could lead to a negative reception. If developers treat AI as just another tool for monetization, rather than enhancing the player experience, it could result in disengagement. Poorly implemented AI can disrupt matchmaking, leading to an unsatisfactory experience.
Da Silva emphasizes that AI-powered agents can address issues like player liquidity, reducing long queue times and improving match quality. High-quality AI agents can ensure balanced and engaging matches, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
ArenaX Labs is at the forefront of developing these AI agents, specifically their NRN Agents, which are set to be integrated into games on the Ronin Network. Da Silva is excited about the potential for players to train, coach, and fine-tune AI agents, offering a fresh, competitive experience. AI vs. AI competitions, where players shape the performance of their AI agents, could create a dynamic and evolving gaming meta.
In addition, ArenaX Labs’ flagship game, AI Arena, will soon allow the Ronin community to contribute to the training of these sophisticated AI agents.
A recent survey by a16z Games revealed that 73% of game studios are already using AI in their processes, with 88% planning to implement AI in the future.
Blast Royale: A Fast-Paced Crypto Game for Mobile Gamers
For those who enjoy mini-shooters with high-stakes gameplay, Blast Royale could be a crypto game worth checking out. Built on the Polygon blockchain and supported by major players like Animoca Brands and Dragonfly Capital, Blast Royale pits players against each other in a battle for survival. With up to 29 players on the battlefield, the goal is simple: eliminate the competition before they eliminate you. The game offers a variety of weapons, health kits, and gear scattered across the map.
As a mobile game, things can get chaotic, but it remains an enjoyable, fast-paced experience that even rewards players with NOOB tokens as they progress and win tournaments. Compared to other crypto games, Blast Royale has impressive matchmaking, with players waiting no longer than a minute to get into a match, which is much quicker than the typical three-minute wait seen in other blockchain-based titles.
However, the game isn’t without its flaws. The shooting controls are one aspect that could use improvement to enhance the overall experience.
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