Why a web3 game needs a steam-like platform for development
As Web3 games continue to gain attention, OKX believes that the Steam version of Web3 – one of the most successful digital game distribution platforms in the Web2 – is essential to support the growth of the crypto game ecosystem.
In July, the company launched OKX GameSphere in an effort to accelerate Web3 gaming. The platform allows developers to integrate Web3 components such as non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and cryptocurrencies.
Jason Lau, OKX's chief innovation officer, told Cointelegraph that since its launch, developers have shown support and appreciation for their help with Web3's mechanics, user experience, fluidity and distribution.
Crypto games flourish despite the Steam ban
Steam is a widely popular digital game marketplace that offers chat and multiplayer features. It allows players to connect and play online games with their friends. The platform is expected to generate $8.8 billion in revenue by 2028 and attract millions of daily active users, with peak usage reaching 34 million.
When asked why Web3 needed a Steam-like platform, Lau said that while Steam successfully distributes Web2 games, it lacks Web3 components. According to Lau, the platform “sets a high bar” for Web2 games, but lacks a decentralized economy and true digital ownership. Lau explained:
This prevents game developers from creating new gaming experiences, implementing new business models, and building deeply engaged communities.
In October 2021, Valve, the organization behind Steam, removed blockchain-based games from the platform and advised users not to publish content on crypt or NFTs. The video game developer has ruled that apps that issue crypto or NFTs are banned from the platform.
Steam banned crypto gaming, the ecosystem grew on Web3-native platforms. Lau explained that GameSphere has been onboarding Web3 games from soccer simulators to Web3's massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG).
The executive said that he will continue to ship MMORPG games based on the Open Network (TON) that integrate web3 mechanics and gameplay.
On July 29, gaming-focused blockchain Ronin recorded two million active users per day, surpassing other active blockchains. Sky Mavis founder Jeffrey Zirlin previously told Cointelegraph that this surge in activity reflects the “hardcore community” they've built since the release of their popular play-to-find game, Axie Infinity.
Related: Web3 games are ‘biggest superpower' for revenue play: Pixels CEO
The Web3 game is still in its infancy.
Despite its success, Lau believes the Web3 game is still in its infancy. The executive said games haven't figured out how to fully utilize Web3 components. Lau explained:
“While there were problems, progress was not steady, and participation came and went. Games haven't found the right balance between how they look and how they use Web3 elements.
Lau believes that in order to make a Web3 game successful, it is necessary to continuously experiment and focus on unique game mechanics that make game content fun and engaging. This allows games to build a sustainable community that breaks out of the Web2 game mold.
Lau added that developers should focus on developing communities by educating players on the benefits of Web3 technology.
Magazine: Web3 Gamer: Axie Infinity Creator Wants to Eliminate Discord, SocialFi Increases Gaming Revenue
