As we say goodbye to 2023, it’s time again for our annual look at the year ahead. And while no one can truly predict the future, there are few trends in web3 gaming that we think will see greater significance over the course of 2024!
2023 was a big year for web3 games, but 2024 is likely to be even bigger! Here are some trends we expect to trend even more through 2024.
Mobile games
Mobile games are already starting to dominate the web3 gaming world – at least in terms of active user numbers. And that includes a wide variety of projects. From the step to earn Sweat Economy, to gaming platforms like PlayEmber, to standalone games like MotoDex and Benji Bananas.
Not only will we see more mobile games hitting the web3 markets this year, but we will also see a continued increase in mobile focus for PC games as they seek to capture a portion of this very large and potentially lucrative player base.
Expect to see the quality of mobile games increase as well, with projects like Heroes of Mavia, Rogue Nation, and Fableborne all focused on creating high-quality mobile gaming experiences!
Web2 / Web3 Crossovers
We have seen a number of these kinds of games. There are some cases where the developers have built separate apps for web2 and web3 players. But the trend seems to be going in a different direction. Many games now build their basic functionality with web2 players in mind, locking or hiding any blockchain aspects. This should help attract new players while also appealing to NFT owners and play to earn players.
In addition, we will see a greater presence of traditional web2 game companies in the web3 space. Zynga is already making big moves with Sugartown, and Ubisoft is developing a web3 game of their own called Champions Tactics.
Founder NFTs
And then we have NFTs. Specifically, play NFTs. And even more specifically, founder-level NFTs. These are generally limited edition NFTs that are sold at the beginning of a game’s development to help create some buzz around the project and generate an initial income for the team.
Founder NFTs often come with promises of airdrops, whitelists for future coins, special early access to the game, and other perks along those lines. Many of these are already doing well to hold value. However, as we move into 2024 and some of these games start coming online, the development teams start handing out rewards to their founding NFT holders, and sometimes even try to find extra ways to add value to these NFTs! I think that 2024 will be the year in which we will see the real value of these NFTs rise, especially with projects delivering on their promises.
Cross application integrations
Cross-app integration has always been one of those cool features of NFTs that hasn’t seen much traction in terms of actual implementation. But we’ve started to see a bit more with Pixels allowing players to use avatars from a number of different PFP projects in-game, and the Alien Worlds Syndicates funding third-party development, much of which ties in some ways with the Alien Worlds NFTs interact.
And personally, I think a lot of big brands are missing a big opportunity here. Imagine that instead of just having that Hot Wheels NFT in your collection, you could actually drive it in racing games like Revv Racer? Or in open worlds like Mega World Of Upland or SinVerse? That would be pretty cool!
This is one of the strengths and advantages that an NFT has over a regular digital item, and we really haven’t seen it used that much. Maybe traditional game companies are too protective of their IPs. But if they remain silent, others will come in and fill that void!
2024 Yay!
But whatever happens with web3 gaming in 2024, we’re here to keep you updated on the latest news in web3 gaming and we look forward to sharing it with you!
Disclaimer for Uncirculars, with a Touch of Personality:
While we love diving into the exciting world of crypto here at Uncirculars, remember that this post, and all our content, is purely for your information and exploration. Think of it as your crypto compass, pointing you in the right direction to do your own research and make informed decisions.
No legal, tax, investment, or financial advice should be inferred from these pixels. We’re not fortune tellers or stockbrokers, just passionate crypto enthusiasts sharing our knowledge.
And just like that rollercoaster ride in your favorite DeFi protocol, past performance isn’t a guarantee of future thrills. The value of crypto assets can be as unpredictable as a moon landing, so buckle up and do your due diligence before taking the plunge.
Ultimately, any crypto adventure you embark on is yours alone. We’re just happy to be your crypto companion, cheering you on from the sidelines (and maybe sharing some snacks along the way). So research, explore, and remember, with a little knowledge and a lot of curiosity, you can navigate the crypto cosmos like a pro!
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