Web3 gaming has taken the world by storm with its fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled gameplay and viral moments. However, as the initial hype fades, what remains? If web3 gaming is solely focused on short-lived thrills, it may not have a sustainable future.
It’s time to reevaluate the basics of web3 gaming. It’s not just about integrating blockchain and crypto into games; at its core, gaming is about fun and engaging experiences that keep players coming back for more. And what drives that lasting engagement? The strength of the game’s intellectual property (IP).
Some may view IP as simply a monetization strategy for publishers and studios. However, after years of working on various game titles, it’s clear that IP is much more than that. It’s what keeps players invested, coming back for more, and forming lasting memories. Building a strong IP is crucial for the future of blockchain gaming.
IP goes beyond just aesthetics in gaming. While iconic franchises like Marvel are known for their compelling stories and characters, games are interactive and rely on mechanics, progression, and in-game economies to keep players engaged. The strongest IPs are built on unique in-game experiences that resonate with players.
For a game to have long-term value in web2 or web3, developers must understand what sets it apart and what keeps players engaged. This is where true value creation begins. By identifying what makes a game compelling, developers can leverage blockchain to enhance that experience.
Blockchain should not replace good game design but should complement and strengthen a game’s core elements. For games focused on item collection and progression, blockchain can preserve item value, enforce scarcity, and prevent inflation. It can also introduce ownership mechanics, real-world asset integration, and open market tradability to player-driven economies.
By tokenizing game items and enforcing capped supply models, blockchain can ensure that items retain value and remain relevant as the game evolves. This approach has been successful for games like MapleStory Universe, where players are engaged in in-game item trading and minting without the need for speculative trading.
To unlock the full potential of blockchain gaming, we must prioritize building strong gaming IPs that create lasting experiences while harnessing the transformative power of blockchain. By focusing on creating player-driven economies that reward skill, effort, and strategy, the next generation of web3 games can move beyond hype cycles and towards sustainable ecosystems.
In the end, hype may fade, but a strong IP will endure. Sunyoung Hwang, CEO and Executive Producer of NEXPACE, is at the forefront of web3 innovation with MapleStory Universe, pioneering new economic models and community applications in the gaming industry. With over 17 years of game development experience, Hwang’s leadership is shaping the future of blockchain gaming.