The world of gaming is on the brink of a major evolution. Web3 games are incorporating NFTs to revolutionize the gaming experience, offering a new level of entertainment and ownership.

In 2021, Web3 gaming attracted over US$4 billion in investments and had over 1.4 million active wallets engaging with Web3-based games. NFT games contributed significantly to the total NFT trading volume, accounting for 20% of it last year, according to DappRadar’s Blockchain Game Report 2021.

One key appeal of Web3 gaming is the play-to-earn (P2E) model. Players can earn in-game items and NFT assets with real-world value, giving them more control over their gaming experience compared to traditional games. Platforms like OpenSea with 1.5 million active users have made buying, selling, and trading NFT assets more accessible.

While traditional gaming focuses on fun, P2E gaming takes it a step further by offering rewards that can be converted into real-world value. However, high entry costs on many P2E platforms remain a barrier for some players.

Overcoming Entry Barriers in Play-to-Earn Games

P2E games have gained popularity but face challenges that need to be addressed for mainstream growth. One major hurdle is the high upfront cost for new players to participate.

Meta Mike, Co-Founder of MetaDerby, highlights the issue, stating, “Most P2E games require players to buy costly NFTs before they can start earning, which can deter many potential players.”

Popular P2E games like Axie Infinity require players to purchase NFTs, often costing hundreds or even thousands of dollars. This high cost upfront can be a barrier to entry for many players.

Removing the initial cost barrier could make Web3 gaming more appealing to a broader audience.

Integrating Free-to-Play Elements in Web3 Gaming

The success of the traditional gaming industry has been attributed to the widespread use of free-to-play (F2P) models. Games like Candy Crush, Fortnite, GTA V, and Call of Duty mobile have integrated F2P models successfully, attracting players with no initial financial commitment.

This F2P model can be applied to Web3 gaming, especially in the P2E sector, to make it more accessible and appealing to a wider audience.

For example, MetaDerby, a free-to-play horse racing game in the metaverse, offers new players a free NFT horse to start playing after completing a beginner’s task, eliminating the need for costly NFT purchases upfront.

Integrating F2P concepts into P2E games can attract more players and facilitate the growth of the Web3 gaming ecosystem.

Finding the Right Balance

Gaming is about fun, and earning rewards adds another layer of excitement. Players looking to earn through P2E games are seeking a balance between enjoyment and financial gain. By offering free-to-play options and valuable rewards, Web3 gaming can continue to evolve and attract new players.

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This article was originally published by The Human & Machine.

Image Credit: The Human & Machine

This article was first published on April 28, 2022

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