The crypto gaming landscape is rapidly evolving, with new titles being launched, an increasing number of token airdrops, and dynamic market adjustments creating a whirlwind of activity. For those looking to stay informed about the latest developments in cryptocurrency video games, Decrypt’s GG has you covered. This weekly summary highlights the most significant stories from the past week, along with a selection of intriguing updates from the industry.
Key Developments
A recent initiative, the Solana Game Pass, was introduced through a free NFT mint on Magic Eden, aimed at enhancing the Solana gaming environment through rewards, partnerships, and early access to future games. The program’s inaugural “Season 0” will last four weeks and includes 30 partnered games such as Star Atlas, Nyan Heroes, Stepn, and BR1: Infinite. Holders of the pass can engage in quests on GAM3S.GG to earn raffle tickets for a prize pool exceeding $10,000 in SOL, NFTs, and other assets. As of now, over 33,000 passes have been minted, and the minting process will continue throughout the duration of the campaign. Upcoming seasons are expected to feature advanced functionalities, including in-game quests and a refined progression system.
Emerging Trends in Gaming
The crypto game Bigcoin recently experienced a surge in interest before its token plummeted by 83%, leading to an unexpected response from players. Many embraced the game’s alleged “Ponzinomics” and actively sought out similar gaming experiences. Bigcoin, which offers a straightforward mining simulation, allows users to earn BIG tokens on Ethereum’s Abstract network, with clear reward computations that many players found appealing compared to the often ambiguous play-to-airdrop schemes. This trend attracted crypto traders in addition to regular gamers, as some viewed these so-called “Ponzi games” as more transparent options amidst projects dominated by insiders. Following the crash of BIG, other games like Minereum and Dungeons of Fortune have momentarily captured attention, albeit with comparable outcomes.
Regulatory News
The SEC has wrapped up its investigation into the Ethereum-based NFT and gaming project CyberKongz, concluding without any findings or enforcement actions, as reported by the project’s team last week. This case adds to a number of recent closed investigations into crypto under the Trump administration. CyberKongz had received a Wells notice in December after two years of scrutiny from the SEC regarding its BANANA token, gaming elements, and the migration of its Genesis Kongz contract. Project leaders celebrated the SEC’s decision as a triumph, having faced what they deemed “unjust allegations” and significant legal expenses, asserting that they chose to “fight this battle for the betterment of Web3.” CyberKongz joins a series of NFT-focused companies, including Yuga Labs, creators of Bored Ape Yacht Club, and the marketplace OpenSea, which have also seen their SEC inquiries concluded.
Exciting Announcements
Introducing Meowcoins! Players can soon dive into CryptoKitties: ALL THE ZEN! and hatch Page’s Gang Kitties in the coming days to earn Meowcoins, giving them a head start for the next season. This marks the beginning of the Eggdrop event, promising exciting developments ahead. Additionally, a new hazardous Battle Pass is set to release, featuring experimental gear that unleashes chaos in the game Teardrop. Players can look forward to new character gear, weapons, and emotes that enhance their gaming experience.
GG Spotlight
This past week, we’ve published several original articles that are definitely worth your time over the weekend. Stay tuned for our GG Newsletter to receive the latest updates in web3 gaming, insights from gaming studios and influencers, and exclusive benefits from our partners.