Introduction
Web3 game developers have been striving to capture the attention of mainstream audiences for years, and three former gaming executives have underscored the importance of this market for the future of the industry.
The Power of Mainstream Audiences
With more than three billion Web2 gamers worldwide, mainstream audiences are crucial for the success of Web3 games, according to Jennifer Poulson, a veteran of the gaming industry. Poulson believes that building games that are fun and appealing to all gamers, rather than solely targeting mainstream players, is the key to attracting wider audiences.
Mainstream Gamers and Crypto
Mainstream gamers have shown a lack of enthusiasm for crypto, particularly when nonfungible tokens (NFTs) are involved. A Global Web3 Gamer Study conducted by Coda Labs revealed that traditional gamers rated their feelings about crypto and NFTs at 4.5 and 4.3 out of 10, respectively.
The Need for Collaboration
Poulson believes that collaborating with mainstream publishers and studios is essential for the future of Web3 games. She argues that integrating Web3 elements into games should be a collaborative effort, as long as the games are enjoyable to play.
Challenges Faced by Web2 Gaming Companies
The State of Web3 Gaming report released by Game7 highlighted that six out of 10 Web3 games are excluded from mainstream distribution platforms. However, progress is being made, with the Epic Games Store listing a record 69 Web3 games in October 2023.
Survival of Web3 Games
While mainstream audiences are important for the future of Web3 games, Jennifer Poulson believes that these games can survive even if the majority of players do not switch over. She predicts that all games will eventually incorporate Web3 elements, enhancing the player experience without their awareness.
Focus on Player Experience
Daniel Paez, a former senior manager at Blizzard, argues that Web3 games should prioritize the player experience over blockchain elements in order to achieve longevity. He believes that selling content and experiences to players is the foundation of the games industry.
The Potential of Blockchain Games
Michael Rubinelli, chief gaming officer at WAX, asserts that mass market adoption is vital for the future of Web3 gaming. He suggests that a breakthrough application that clearly showcases the benefits of Web3 to both developers and players is needed to attract a wider audience.
Uncertainty Surrounding Mainstream Gaming Companies
Whether mainstream gaming companies will embrace Web3 games remains uncertain. However, a survey of Web2 game developers conducted by Coda Labs found that three out of four expect to work on Web3 games in the future.
Achieving Objectives
Ultimately, the enduring concept of Web3 gaming lies in players' desire for ownership and control over their digital assets. While reaching a mainstream audience is important, the industry's success will be measured by its ability to achieve specific product and business objectives.
