In our previous July edition, we highlighted the launch of Satlantis, a Minecraft server where players could earn Bitcoin by completing in-game quests. At the time, we questioned how this integration would fare against Minecraft developer Mojang’s previous ban on NFTs. Well, it seems time has shown its verdict, as Mojang has asked Satlantis to remove the play-to-earn features from their server.
According to a Discord post by Satlantis founder David Dineno, the server has accepted Mojang’s request and removed the feature just two days after the announcement. However, Dineno expressed his annoyance with the situation, stating that “The Game That Shares its Profits with Players’ works. And it works well. All of the time, money, and energy that we put into this game together will not be forsaken by a few dinosaurs at some conglomerate.”
Despite this setback, the Satlantis community remains resilient. They are actively exploring alternative platforms that “encourage innovation instead of stifling it.” The community has taken to social media platforms to express their disappointment in Mojang and Microsoft, who indirectly controls Mojang.
Dineno advised players to withdraw their earned Bitcoin (satoshi) from the server, ensuring that the process will be diligently carried out. Satlantis developers have pledged to honor all in-game assets, including sats, prize pools, players’ premium battle pass status, and all other transferable data.
While the play-to-earn features may no longer be available on Satlantis, the Minecraft server will continue to operate, as the team aims for a seamless transition to the next gaming frontier.
Speaking of gaming frontiers, blockchain technology has the potential to revolutionize the eSports industry. Nicolas Gilot, co-CEO, and co-founder of blockchain-based online gaming hub Ultra Arena, believes that eSports are struggling to generate profits and need a change of direction. Gilot argues that blockchain can create a better and more sustainable product for viewers and sponsors by broadening participation beyond the elite level. He emphasizes that blockchain can act as the glue binding all parties together, removing administrative burdens, distributing prizes and earnings, and giving confidence to publishers, brands, and influencers to get involved at all levels.
Ultra Arena, the eSports hub created by Ultra, is designed to help gamers attract sponsors earlier in their careers and provide opportunities for growth as they improve. The Ultra blockchain also helps build a player persona across all areas of gaming, not just competitive play.
Gilot believes that by opening up the existing eSports model to more stakeholders, grassroots competitive players can turn pro, smaller brands can gain traction, and startup teams can become massive eSports powerhouses. This approach could ultimately add value for all key stakeholders and support the journey to sustainable profitability.
Switching gears, let’s talk about the recently unveiled Apple iPhone 15 and its implications for Web3 gaming. The new iPhone 15 Pro features hardware-accelerated ray tracing, allowing games to present dynamic lighting effects. The device can run demanding game titles seamlessly and can connect to 4K monitors through upscaling. It also supports third-party gamepads such as PlayStation’s DualSense controller, expanding gaming options for users. The addition of Apple’s upcoming VR headset further enhances the gaming experience.
For Web3 game developers, these advancements in iPhone technology offer opportunities to create games with better graphics and more comprehensive gameplay. Porting web games from PC to mobile platforms will be easier as developers won’t have to sacrifice features or graphics for better performance. However, developers will still face challenges due to Apple’s stringent rules for NFT apps, which limit users to in-app purchases subject to Apple’s commission and do not permit support for crypto payments. It remains to be seen how Web3 gaming companies will navigate these restrictions on the new iPhone.
Lastly, Formula is making its second attempt at Web3 gaming with the upcoming release of Formula E: High Voltage. Developed by Animoca Brands, this new Formula game focuses on the Formula E motorsport championship, featuring fully electric-powered race cars. Players will take on the role of a team principal, making strategic decisions and managing their Formula E team to become champions. The game’s success will depend on various factors such as racetrack distance, difficulty, and weather conditions.
After the discontinuation of F1 Delta Time, Formula is eager to return to the blockchain circuits with Formula E: High Voltage. This game aims to provide an immersive experience for Formula E fans and engage them in the world of competitive motorsport.
In conclusion, the world of blockchain gaming continues to evolve, facing challenges and seeking new opportunities. While some ventures, like Satlantis, face setbacks due to restrictions from game developers or publishers, others, like Ultra Arena, strive to reshape the eSports industry with the help of blockchain technology. The launch of the Apple iPhone 15 Pro presents exciting possibilities for Web3 game developers, while Formula makes a comeback in the Web3 gaming space with Formula E: High Voltage. As the gaming landscape evolves, blockchain technology remains at the forefront, offering innovative solutions and transformative possibilities.