Blockchain gaming has been a hot topic in the gaming industry for several years now, with digital asset ownership being touted as the key benefit that blockchain technology can bring to games. According to a recent survey conducted by Emfarsis in partnership with the Blockchain Game Alliance (BGA), 71.1% of respondents ranked digital asset ownership as the number one benefit of blockchain gaming.
Despite the emphasis on digital asset ownership, most blockchain games today are free-to-play and do not require players to own assets. This has led to a disconnect between the perceived benefits of ownership and the actual implementation in games. Early blockchain games required players to purchase NFTs upfront, creating a barrier to entry for many potential players.
The concept of digital asset ownership in blockchain gaming goes beyond simply owning in-game items. Players have the ability to trade, monetize, and even rent out their assets to other players. This level of ownership was a distinguishing feature of blockchain games in their early days but has since evolved to accommodate a wider audience.
In an effort to attract traditional gamers and compete with the larger gaming market, many blockchain games have shifted towards a free-to-play model. This move has been necessary to address onboarding challenges and poor user experience, which have been identified as major hurdles for the industry.
However, this shift towards accessibility has raised questions about the true nature of blockchain gaming. How much blockchain can a game omit before it loses its identity as a blockchain game? The industry is still grappling with this question as developers prioritize user experience over blockchain integration.
Despite the challenges, there have been promising developments in the realm of digital asset ownership in blockchain gaming. Innovations such as ERC standards and soulbound tokens have empowered gamers to have more control over their assets and unlock new experiences within games.
The appeal of digital asset ownership remains strong among players, as it offers them agency, control, and value within the gaming ecosystem. Moving forward, the industry must find a balance between providing a fun gaming experience and showcasing the benefits of ownership to players.
In conclusion, while the concept of digital asset ownership in blockchain gaming may be overhyped, it still holds value for players looking to have more control over their in-game assets. As the industry continues to evolve, developers must focus on creating experiences that highlight the benefits of ownership while delivering an engaging gaming experience.