Rethinking Web3 Gaming: Why Disappointed Players Might Change Their Minds
- rachelbeautybar
- Aug 4
- 3 min read
Traditional gaming has always been about fun and competition. But with the rise of Web3 Games and GameFi (Game + DeFi) in 2021–2022, gaming became both entertainment and a source of income through the Play-to-Earn (P2E) model.
Even during the crypto bear market in late 2022, venture capital poured into Web3 gaming. In August 2022, Web3 game studios raised nearly $750M, with Revolving Games securing $25M, Odyssey Interactive raising $19M, and SkyWeaver obtaining $40M.
This influx of funding contrasted with declining active players as token prices dropped. While players were losing interest, investors were betting big on the future of Web3 Gaming.
ETHDenver Showcases Web3 Gaming Progress
At ETHDenver, the Web3 gaming segment received major attention. Developers showcased demos with advanced graphics and improved gameplay compared to the “quick-profit” P2E games of 2021–2022.
Bionic Owls: A Web3 FPS game featuring smooth 3D combat where players control warrior owls in futuristic arenas. Despite being in development for just one year, the demo impressed streamers like Brycent (190K followers), who called it a potential breakthrough in Web3 shooters.
The Bornless: A horror-infused FPS letting players explore a haunted North American farm town. While some mechanics need polish, the atmospheric design marks a significant leap for Web3 FPS gaming.
Dark Throne & Gridiron: RPG and sports Web3 titles with enhanced graphics and engaging gameplay were also highlighted, signaling a push toward mainstream-level experiences.
Jason Choi (former Spartan Capital partner) noted:
“The quality of Web3 Games has vastly improved since 2020. Some demos at ETHDenver were comparable to traditional AAA titles.”
Challenges Still Facing Web3 Gaming
Despite the improvements, Web3 Gaming still faces major hurdles:
Gameplay Depth: Most Web3 games remain simple compared to traditional titles, focusing on tokenomics rather than player experience.
User Onboarding: Complex wallet and NFT mechanics make it hard for casual gamers to enter.
AAA Ambitions: Building AAA-level Web3 games requires time, budget, and infrastructure that many projects lack.
According to DappRadar, 50% of blockchain transactions come from Web3 games, showing massive user interest. Yet, Blockchain Game Alliance reports that overly simplistic gameplay and steep learning curves are the biggest barriers to mainstream adoption.
The Path to Mass Adoption
Illuvium co-founder Kieran Warwick believes that to expand beyond the Play-to-Earn audience, Web3 Gaming must win over casual gamers, who make up nearly 1.95B of the 3B global players (Source: Exploding Topics).
“When fun NFT-based games are built, players will experience the power of digital ownership and won’t want to go back to traditional games.” – Kieran Warwick
Traditional gaming giants are already eyeing Web3 integration:
Trip Hawkins (EA founder) joined a Web3 startup, aiming to merge blockchain with high-quality gameplay.
Square Enix is developing NFT-based projects on Polygon, signaling long-term blockchain integration into traditional franchises.
Animoca Brands’ Yat Siu argues NFT backlash is temporary:
“Most gamers I speak to want digital ownership but hate NFTs. Over time, education will change their minds.”
The Future Looks Brighter
With more AAA-level projects, NFT utility improvements, and better gameplay experiences, Web3 Gaming is evolving beyond the “earn-first, play-later” stigma. Events like ETHDenver show the industry is learning from past mistakes and moving toward fun-first, sustainable economies.
As traditional studios enter the space and technology matures, the line between Web2 and Web3 gaming will blur. Players who were once disappointed might soon find themselves rethinking Web3 Games entirely.
Conclusion
Web3 Gaming is no longer just about tokens and quick profits. With increased investment, improved graphics, and AAA ambitions, the industry is heading toward a more sustainable and enjoyable future. For players willing to give it another chance, the next generation of Web3 Games might just change everything.
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