Gaming is often one of the areas that push technology forwards. Gamers are concerned with trying out the newest experiences and understanding modern technology before it hits the mainstream, so it makes sense that there’s so much innovation within this sector. Crypto gaming is still in its infancy, but it’s already making waves amongst certain groups of gamers.
At its core, crypto gaming uses cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology and combines both with the world of gaming. Creating an in-game economy that works with the economy of the outside world is central to the success of a crypto game, but so too is utilizing blockchain’s ability to decentralize a game.
This means that games can be owned equally by their creators and their players, paving the way for a more communal way of gaming. If you’re interested in getting started with crypto gaming, then we’ve got all you need to know about it right here.
The Pioneers of Crypto Gaming
It makes sense to start at the beginning and for crypto gaming, which was arguable with casino games. This sector made a natural jumping-off point for the integration of crypto into gaming because players were already used to paying to play, in the sense that they were already wagering money. Whilst you could still opt to wager with dollars, it is also now possible to play on the same site while you enjoy roulette with crypto.
Although crypto casinos, such as CafeCasino, didn’t integrate blockchain technology into the workings of the game themselves, they did make it possible for people to wager cryptocurrencies in addition to traditional currencies. This helped cryptocurrencies to be appreciated for the safe alternative to fiat currencies that they are, whilst perhaps sparking the idea that gaming and crypto could become more integrated further down the line.
The next big jump for crypto-gaming was integrating blockchain technology into the core of the game. The first company to do this with remarkable success was the team behind Crypto Kitties. This game integrated blockchain technology into the way that kitties were bred, sold, and coded into their genetics too.
The kitties that you can trade on this game are non-fungible tokens (NFTs) meaning they’re entirely unique and ownership of them can be traced back to the blockchain. The game is still running now and has a super active community, making it a suitable place to start your crypto adventure.
How it Actually Works
Now that you know a little about the different games that paved the way for the success of crypto gaming, it’s time to get to the core of how it actually works. True crypto games, like Crypto Kitties, use blockchain technology to prove ownership of in-game assets, in this case, kitties.
The kitties are NFTs, tokens that can’t be broken down or replicated because they’re based on the blockchain. This means that even outside of the Crypto Kitties platform, these assets are owned by the player.
What makes this particularly exciting for gamers is that these games also use a cryptocurrency to go between the in-game economy and the outside economy. If you own a rare Crypto Kitty then you can sell it for, in this case, Ethereum which you can use to purchase tokens within the game or about anything outside the game. This means that those who develop a skill for breeding kitties with rare genetics can monetize their gaming.
This has proven so successful that people in less economically developed countries have found that honing their skills in crypto games can provide a more stable income for them than a traditional job could. Whilst the economic situation in their country is far from ideal, the fact that they can access a decentralized currency and improve their lives through gaming should be applauded.
If you want to dive deeper into this topic follow the tweet below:
Here’s a 🧵 of #Crypto, #NFT, #Blockchain, and #Gaming #events happening all over the world in the following months!
If we missed anything, let us know, and we’ll add it! Which will you be attending? 🗺
Full list below 👇https://t.co/DloCdwjawM pic.twitter.com/8Tvd4ve4eU
— Emfarsis (@emfarsis) January 25, 2023
What Is Play to Earn Gaming?
Whilst people are finding it possible to accumulate crypto on games such as Crypto Kitties and the Sandbox there are other games that make it possible to earn more directly. These are called play-to-earn games and are at the cutting edge of crypto gaming. These games allow players to earn crypto by completing in-game tasks, achieving certain in-game feats, or contributing to the game in another way.
Once the reward has been earned, it can be spent within the game to bolster the player’s chances of success or traded out of the game and used as crypto or traded a further time into a fiat currency.
Play-to-earn games are also leveling the playing field for gamers all over the world. Whilst traditionally gamers in richer regions could afford to spend more money on gaming, even if there was no potential for real-world earnings, now gamers from all backgrounds can simply play to earn more money. So, rather than paying into the game monetarily, people can pay in with, effectively, their time and ability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I start my journey in crypto gaming?
Starting your journey in crypto gaming involves understanding the basics of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies. You can then explore games that incorporate these elements, such as Crypto Kitties or play-to-earn games.
2. What are the risks involved in crypto gaming?
As with any emerging technology, crypto gaming comes with its own set of risks. These include market volatility of cryptocurrencies, potential security vulnerabilities, and regulatory challenges. It’s important to research and understand these risks before diving into crypto gaming.
3. What is the potential impact of crypto gaming on global economies?
Crypto gaming has the potential to democratize access to economic opportunities, especially in regions with limited traditional opportunities. By allowing players to earn real-world value for their in-game achievements, crypto gaming can contribute to global economic inclusivity.
4. Can I make a living from crypto gaming?
While it’s possible for some players to earn a significant income from crypto gaming, it’s important to approach this with caution. The value of cryptocurrencies can be volatile, and the success in these games often requires a high level of skill and time investment.
Summary
The world of crypto gaming represents a revolutionary convergence of two rapidly growing industries, offering unique opportunities and experiences for both gamers and investors alike. As pioneers continue to push the boundaries of technology, we are witnessing the emergence of a new era in gaming that holds immense potential.
It operates on the principles of blockchain technology, offering decentralized and transparent platforms where players can truly own and control their in-game assets. The integration of cryptocurrencies not only facilitates secure transactions but also enables players to earn real value for their time and skills.
This disruptive concept has the power to transform the gaming landscape, blurring the lines between virtual and real-world economies. The pioneers have paved the way for a more inclusive and democratized gaming ecosystem. With the elimination of intermediaries, gamers have greater autonomy and can participate in economic activities.
This has the potential to empower individuals from all walks of life, especially those in regions with limited economic opportunities. It is important to approach crypto gaming with caution. As with any emerging technology, there are risks involved, including market volatility, security vulnerabilities, and regulatory challenges.
