Blockchain gaming continues to evolve, with digital asset ownership remaining a central focus. The annual survey conducted by Emfarsis in partnership with the Blockchain Game Alliance consistently highlights digital asset ownership as the key benefit of blockchain in gaming. However, despite its significance, many blockchain games today are free-to-play and do not require asset ownership. The industry faces a paradox where digital asset ownership is both celebrated as a defining feature and seen as a barrier to entry for players.
In the early years of blockchain gaming, digital asset ownership set blockchain games apart from traditional games. Players had the opportunity to own, trade, and monetize in-game assets in the form of tokens and NFTs. However, the requirement to purchase NFTs upfront created onboarding challenges, as players were hesitant to invest in assets before experiencing a game. This led to the emergence of innovative solutions such as asset rentals, where NFT owners could earn crypto by lending out their assets to other players.
Despite the initial success of asset rentals in games like Axie Infinity and Pegaxy, the model could not scale due to limited availability and high entry costs. As a result, blockchain games began shifting towards a free-to-play model to attract a wider audience. This move aimed to reduce barriers to entry and prioritize fun over financialization to appeal to traditional gamers who may be unfamiliar with Web3 concepts. By making blockchain-based features optional enhancements rather than prerequisites, developers hoped to tap into the massive traditional gaming market.
The shift towards free-to-play models in blockchain games reflects the industry’s efforts to address onboarding challenges and poor user experiences. Developers recognize the need to make blockchain technology more accessible and less burdensome for players, especially those new to the space. The industry is seeking ways to balance digital asset ownership as a core feature while also ensuring that it does not deter potential players. Despite the challenges, the appeal of digital asset ownership persists, offering players agency, control, and value over their in-game assets.
While some blockchain games have embraced on-chain experiences, true interoperability and transformative Web3 innovations remain theoretical due to fragmented collaboration and a lack of industry-wide standards. Developers are still exploring ways to leverage digital asset ownership and blockchain technology to create engaging gaming experiences that appeal to a broad audience. As the industry continues to evolve, it is crucial to strike a balance between the benefits of digital asset ownership and the need for inclusive, user-friendly gaming experiences. Ultimately, the goal is to showcase the value of ownership in a way that enhances the gameplay and resonates with players organically.
