Blockchain-based gameplay had a rocky start with traditional gamers. While ownership of digital assets appealed to some, many early developers of Web3 games focused too heavily on money-making practices, ignoring fundamental aspects of gameplay.
For many, gaming is an escape meant to relax, entertain, and challenge through storytelling and action. Traditional games typically allow players to leave their responsibilities at the door and dive into an enjoyable and immersive environment without concerns for rewards that extend beyond playing time.
Now, we are witnessing a shift toward a more balanced approach to Web3 gaming, aiming to merge traditional gaming with blockchain features. This new wave of gameplay revitalizes the crypto ecosystem, making it more accessible and appealing to a broader audience to dip their toes into Web3. With that said, let’s explore the top 5 Web3 games to watch out for.
1. Eternal Paradox
Created by Korean-based developer NDREAM Studios, Eternal Paradox blends 4X and RPG-style combat genres. Players are invited to engage in strategic and competitive gameplay, utilizing fortresses and mercenary characters. The game has integrated Web3 perks offered by Gala Games, one of the leading Web3 gaming platforms. However, blockchain elements are optional.
Eternal Paradox creates a world that repeats itself endlessly in 49-day cycles, or seasons, allowing for large-scale competition and daily rewards. The game is entirely free-to-play, meaning players can compete without owning any tokens or a Gala Games account. The game is easily accessible for gamers, live on both Google Play and the iOS App Store for users to download.
2. Exverse
For fans looking for Web3’s Call of Duty, Exverse is an innovative gaming studio focused on competitive mechanics, quality gameplay, and community development. Built using Epic’s Unreal Engine 5, the game aims to redefine the gaming industry by bringing a traditional AAA-quality first-person shooter title to the Web3 space.
Simplifying the complexities of blockchain technology is necessary for those unfamiliar with its technical elements. For non-crypto natives, the game facilitates the onboarding process by allowing users to register in any way they choose: mail, Discord, Telegram, or a Metamask wallet, offering players a more inclusive experience.
What sets Exverse apart is its community-centric approach, which empowers players to participate actively in creating and developing the game’s thriving ecosystem. This approach helps ensure the game evolves organically by utilizing native assets to shape an ever-expanding universe. As traditional gaming and Web3 continue to merge, Exverse invites all users to participate in its evolving cosmic journey.
3. League of Kingdoms
League of Kingdoms is a free-to-play MMO strategy game in which players can build a powerful kingdom and army, forge alliances, compete against each other, and trade digital assets across the blockchain. Players begin the game with a primitive kingdom to upgrade and build; however, they must also work on the lands outside to gather resources to expand and grow their army. Players can earn rewards on quests or buy them as NFTs.
While the game is powered by its $LOKA token, the content is catered to both blockchain gaming enthusiasts and mainstream gamers, offering a variety of gameplay strategies. Players do not require prior experience or knowledge of crypto to enjoy the game, which is easily accessible on Google Play and the iOS App Store.
4. SHADOW WAR
Developed by Patriots Division and drawing inspiration from titles like Overwatch and League of Legends, SHADOW WAR focuses on the convergence of futurism, fantasy, action, and competition. The free-to-play 5V5 third-person game emphasizes melee combat, rewarding skill-based players and tactical gameplay.
The game creates a path for players to earn top-tier resources, avoiding pay-to-win mechanics that make competing dependent on spending resources. SHADOW WAR strikes a balance between user experience and the opportunity for players to enjoy digital ownership over their in-game assets. Created by a team of talented developers and gaming professionals, SHADOW WAR focuses on creating a timeless video game experience with added Web3 qualities; however, the game places player enjoyment and world-building aspects at the forefront.
5. Big Time
Big Time is a free-to-play multiplayer RPG that blends fast-paced action and adventure. Throughout the game, players journey through time and space, exploring ancient mysteries and futuristic civilizations while engaging in thrilling combat. With six unique classes to choose from, open levels to explore, and a unique time-blending narrative, Big Time integrates classic video game features with Web3 elements.
Despite incorporating on-chain gaming, Big Time strives to maintain a player-friendly gaming environment. The developers have emphasized that interaction with crypto aspects in the game is optional and players are free to engage without them. The $BIGTIME token is the core of its economy, primarily obtainable through gameplay, ensuring accessibility to all players.
The emerging generation of blockchain-based games allows gamers to explore Web3 without being dependent solely on centralized authorities or intermediaries. For those curious about this universe, these games are an effective way for players to gauge their interest in investing in gameplay or simply indulging for solely entertainment purposes.