Why Most Web3 Games Suck

Exploring the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Web3 Gaming

In recent years, we have witnessed the rise of web3, or decentralized applications (dApps), which have promised to revolutionize how we interact with the internet. Among these, web3 games have gained significant attention, partly due to the success stories like CryptoKitties and Axie Infinity. However, as with any new technology, there are bound to be a few hiccups along the way. This article will delve into why the majority of web3 games are failing to meet expectations and what can be done to improve the quality of this emerging gaming genre.

The Good: What Works in Web3 Gaming

Let’s begin with what’s working well. Web3 games that have succeeded, like Axie Infinity and CryptoKitties, have managed to create a strong community around their products. These games tap into the potential of blockchain technology to create unique digital assets (like NFTs) that players can own, trade, and showcase. They also empower players with a sense of ownership and control over their in-game assets and the ability to monetize their time and effort.

These games have leveraged the benefits of web3 technology while building engaging gameplay and fostering strong communities, creating a compelling experience for their players.

The Bad: Common Pitfalls in Web3 Gaming

However, the majority of web3 games are falling short for several reasons:

1. Poor Gameplay: Many web3 games prioritize the use of blockchain technology and monetization over providing an enjoyable gaming experience. The result is often a clunky interface, uninspired gameplay, and a lack of depth that leaves players unsatisfied.
2. Misuse of NFTs: Some developers use NFTs as a gimmick rather than integrating them meaningfully into the gameplay. This can lead to a shallow experience where the game revolves around collecting and trading NFTs, rather than providing engaging content.
3. Overemphasis on Monetization: The rush to capitalize on the hype surrounding web3 games has led many developers to focus on profit-making features like token sales, rather than investing time and resources into creating a well-rounded game that players would enjoy for its own merits.
4. Limited Accessibility: The current infrastructure of web3 gaming often requires a steep learning curve, including understanding cryptocurrencies, wallets, and transactions. This complexity can deter potential players from engaging with these games, limiting the audience and overall adoption.
5. Scams and Exploitation: As with any emerging technology, bad actors are taking advantage of the hype around web3 gaming to create scams and deceptive schemes, further damaging the reputation of the industry.

The Ugly: Web3 as a Novelty, Not a Solution

The key problem is that many developers are using web3 not because it is useful, but because it’s a novelty and almost guarantees a quick buck. This approach has resulted in a flood of low-quality games that fail to deliver on the potential of web3 technology. Players are becoming disillusioned with these experiences, and the reputation of web3 gaming as a whole is suffering.

To improve the state of web3 gaming, developers need to prioritize the following:

1. Focus on Gameplay: Developers must create games that are enjoyable and engaging, even without the web3 features. A strong foundation of fun and captivating gameplay is essential to the success of any game.
2. Meaningful Integration of Web3 Technology: Web3 features, like NFTs and decentralized finance (DeFi), should be seamlessly integrated into the gaming experience, adding value to the players without compromising gameplay.
3. Address Accessibility Issues: Simplifying the onboarding process for new players and improving user interfaces will help make web3 games more accessible and enjoyable for a wider audience.
4. Build Trust and Transparency: Developers should be transparent about their intentions and work to create a sense of trust within their communities. This includes addressing potential scams and exploitation to safeguard the integrity of web3 gaming.

In conclusion, the majority of web3 games currently fail because they prioritize novelty and monetization over creating a quality gaming experience. To succeed in this emerging industry, developers must focus on building engaging games that meaningfully leverage web3 technology while fostering strong communities and addressing accessibility issues. Only then can web3 gaming reach its true potential and become a force to be reckoned with in the gaming world.

AAA Web3 Games: A New Hope

While the majority of web3 games have faced various issues, there is hope on the horizon in the form of AAA web3 games. These games, backed by established gaming studios and boasting higher production values, have the potential to raise the bar for web3 gaming experiences.

A few examples of upcoming AAA web3 games include:

1. Big Time: Developed by industry veterans from Epic Games, Riot Games, and Blizzard, Big Time is an action RPG that aims to bring high-quality graphics, engaging gameplay, and an expansive in-game universe to the world of web3 gaming. Players can collect and trade unique NFT items, creating real-world value for their in-game assets while experiencing an immersive adventure.
2. Ember Sword: This MMORPG boasts a player-driven economy, where players can own and develop land, engage in trade, and participate in PvE and PvP combat. The game’s developers, So Couch Studios, have focused on creating an enjoyable experience that isn’t bogged down by the complexities of blockchain technology. Ember Sword combines the best aspects of web3 gaming with the depth and quality of a traditional MMO. Visit Ember Sword’s website
3. Today (TodayTheGame.com): Developed by Mr. Kite, “Today” is an upcoming social sandbox game where the land has a soul that must be nourished. Players can create and curate online worlds called Islands, where they can forage, farm, and build in single and cooperative play. “Today” seamlessly combines blockchain technology with engaging gameplay and a strong community focus. By providing an enjoyable gaming experience and meaningful web3 features, such as NFT-based assets and decentralized marketplaces, “Today” is setting a new standard for other web3 games to follow.

AAA web3 games hold the promise of elevating the entire industry by delivering engaging and polished gaming experiences that fully utilize the potential of blockchain technology. As more AAA studios enter the web3 gaming space, we can expect to see a significant shift in the quality and reputation of web3 games, driving the industry towards a brighter future.