The rising presence of Solana in blockchain gaming comes from its growing list of games on the Epic Games Store.
The gaming landscape is witnessing a significant shift with the integration of blockchain technology, and Solana is at the forefront of this revolution. Particularly noteworthy is the adoption of Solana by game developers as their go-to non-EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine) blockchain network. This trend is vividly reflected in the Epic Games Store’s current lineup of Solana-based games.
As of October, the Epic Games Store has seen a remarkable increase in Web3 games, with the count reaching 69, up from just 10 in January, as reported by Game7 in their 2023 State of Web3 Gaming Report. This surge underscores Epic Games’ more receptive stance towards games incorporating cryptocurrency and AI elements, a contrast to Steam’s more conservative policy. Solana’s ecosystem boasts over 125 games, ranking it fourth among blockchain networks favored by game developers and first among non-EVM chains.
Trending Solana Games on Epic Games Store
Star Atlas: This upcoming sci-fi MMORPG is creating buzz with its use of Solana for tokens and NFTs. Despite setbacks, including significant staff reductions at ATMTA, the studio behind the game, Star Atlas marches on. A demo was released in September 2022 for NFT holders, with a full release anticipated on the Epic Games Store. Additionally, ATMTA is fostering Solana game development with its open-source SDK.
Aurory: This free-to-play fantasy RPG, likened to a blend of Pokémon and the Matrix, is expanding its presence. Originally launched with Solana-based NFTs and tokens, it’s set to extend to the Ethereum layer-2 network, Arbitrum. The game’s expansion, “Seekers of Tokane,” promises new adventures and features, and is “Coming Soon” on the Epic Games Store.
Yaku: As a social metaverse game, Yaku supports both Solana and Ethereum blockchains. Currently in early access, it teases an open-world, dystopian setting governed by a powerful corporation. The game will have a gradual release over several years, promising a dynamic and evolving gaming experience.
Chain Crisis: This cyberpunk shooter, set in the futuristic Warpgate City, is currently in pre-alpha and expected to launch in 2024. The game has introduced male avatar NFTs on Solana, indicating a focus on in-game customization.
Angelic: Dark Symphony: A sci-fi RPG that offers various modes, including multiplayer and single-player. Developed by Metaverse Game Studios, it has raised substantial funding from notable investors. While the game will feature optional NFT elements using Solana and Ethereum, the developers aim to avoid pay-to-win mechanics, aiming for a fair and sustainable gaming experience.
Is Web3 Gaming On the Right Path?
Solana’s rise in the gaming industry, as evidenced by its prominent presence on the Epic Games Store, marks a new era in gaming. Its preference over other blockchain networks, especially for non-EVM applications, showcases its potential in providing a decentralized and innovative platform for game developers. This trend is not just a passing phase but a significant movement towards integrating blockchain technology in mainstream gaming, offering new possibilities for players and developers alike.
However, not many adhere to the path that gaming in web3 is taking. Nolan Bushnell, Atari’s founder, critiques play-to-earn crypto games, emphasizing their profit-driven nature which detracts from gaming fun. He envisions Web3‘s future in immersive virtual worlds enhanced by VR and AR, focusing on social interaction and realistic experiences. Bushnell, now at Moxy, highlights blockchain’s potential in gaming for secure asset transfers, smart contract utility, and digital asset value storage. Initially skeptical about cryptocurrencies, his views evolved as he recognized blockchain’s transformative impact, despite concerns about cryptocurrency volatility. This marks a significant shift from traditional to crypto-driven gaming, foreseeing a blend of real and virtual worlds.
On the other hand, some believe that web3 gaming is going on the right direction. Ubisoft, renowned for the Assassin’s Creed series, partnered with Immutable to innovate in Web3 gaming, focusing on enhancing digital ownership. Nicolas Pouard from Ubisoft and James Ferguson from Immutable are optimistic about seamlessly integrating crypto elements into games, emphasizing fun without the complexities of blockchain. Immutable’s successful integration in games like Gods Unchained underlines their capability. While specific project details are unknown, Ubisoft’s past ventures in blockchain and NFTs, like with Tezos NFTs in Ghost Recon and its RPG Champions Tactics on Oasys blockchain, signal their deepening commitment to blockchain gaming, indicating a positive trajectory for Web3 gaming innovation.