The Rise of Play-to-Earn Crypto Games – Our Top Picks for 2024

With the advent of NFT and Blockchain, the gaming industry has gone through a huge transformation. This decentralization in games changed how gamers and developers approach. Blockchain gaming has also impacted the overall gaming experience. This is evident by the market size of P2E games reached $3292.73 million in 2022 and is projected to reach over $8800 million by 2028. These games allow players to earn NFTs and cryptocurrencies through gameplay, virtual creature breeding, or game economy participation.  In this blog, we will explore the top crypto games of 2024, but first, let’s understand crypto gaming.

Understanding of Crypto Games

Crypto gaming, also known as blockchain games has underlined technologies like blockchain and NFTs. Unlike traditional games where in-game items vanish upon exiting, crypto games utilize non-fungible tokens (NFTs). These NFTs represent digital ownership of in-game assets like characters, virtual land, and unique items. These games let players earn cryptocurrency and valuable in-game assets with real-world value, transforming them from passive consumers into active participants. 

How Crypto Games Work?

Crypto games function on the p2e gaming model. Players can earn cryptocurrencies as they journey through the crypto game. These games are built on the foundational idea of empowering players to create tangible real-world value from their in-game endeavors. Blockchain games operate with the underlying technology, NFTs. They work as in-game assets that provide players with true ownership.  Secure blockchain transactions ensure asset integrity, allowing players to buy, sell, or trade tokens within dedicated marketplaces. This decentralized structure empowers players and reduces central authority control. P2E crypto games also have the potential to become income sources, as players can earn a living through their time and skill. This blend of entertainment and financial opportunity is paving the way for a future where gaming is not just fun but potentially profitable.

Our Top Choices of Crypto Games for 2024

Crypto gaming encompasses various genres and mechanics with various tokens, each offering distinct opportunities for players to engage and earn. Here are some of the common types of p2e crypto games:

1. Scapesmania

ScapesMania is a project aimed at bridging the gap between casual and crypto gamers. It is a gaming ecosystem designed to cater to two audiences: Web3 enthusiasts who can hold $MANIA, the project’s native gaming cryptocurrency or token, and actively participate in shaping its future through DAO governance, while casual gamers can enjoy the fun without worrying about the complexities of cryptocurrency. ScapesMania offers a unique blend of casual gameplay and crypto utility, with balanced tokenomics, token utility, and verified safety. The game takes place in a charming town with friendly characters who love to decorate their homes. Players can own and customize virtual land, play engaging mini-games, and compete in design contests to showcase their skills. To earn money, players can use real money to purchase boosters, energy, and decorative items, complete quests and achievements, and participate in special events. 

Market Cap of $MANIA

The current price of the ScapesMania token ($MANIA) is $0.0048, with a market cap not yet available. The token is traded on PancakeSwap (v2) and is worth keeping an eye on for its potential.

2. GALA Games

Gala Games (GALA) is a blockchain-based platform that enables players to earn cryptocurrencies and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) through gameplay.  The platform offers real-time strategy, multiplayer online battle arena, and role-playing game titles. GALA serves as the medium of exchange, allowing token holders to pay for items and transfer value peer-to-peer within the Gala Games ecosystem.  The platform’s native token, GALA, is an ERC-20 token used for in-game purchases and as a medium of exchange between participants. GALA tokens have value among players due to their various uses, such as serving as a medium of exchange, player incentivization mechanism, and the platform’s strong online community. Blockchain game enthusiasts may hold GALA tokens to make in-game purchases, while developers can incorporate GALA game tokens and NFTs into their games, further expanding the GALA ecosystem.

Market Cap of GALA

The live price of Gala is $0.041886 per USD, with a market cap of USD 1.28B and a 24-hour trading volume of USD 390.18M.

3. Axie Infinity 

Axie Infinity is a digital marketplace that allows players to interact with digital assets like Axie creatures, known as Axies. The cost of Axies varies based on factors such as rarity, experience, attributes, and type. The game has the record for the third-highest all-time NFT sales, with Axie Infinity generating $4.17 billion in all-time NFT sales. Axie Infinity Shards ($AXS) are an ERC-20 governance token for the Axie Universe, which has increased by over 3,000% relative to the U.S. dollar over the past year. The AXS tokens are an intentional move by Sky Mavis to decentralize ownership and governance, aligning the interests between developers and the community of players. A Smooth Love Potion (SLP) is a reward token within Axie Infinity that can be earned by players in battle or adventure mode. However, its value has been down sharply over the past year due to uncertainty around its supply and stability.

Market Cap of $AXS

The live price of Axie Infinity is $ 7.072986 per (AXS / USD) with a current market cap of USD 1.01B. 24-hour trading volume is USD 45.93M. AXS to USD price is updated in real-time.

4. The SandBox

Virtual land, called Terra, is a concept in which players can purchase, rent, and be developed by others. Resources can be used to upgrade Axies and land, with the potential for continued popularity in the future. The Sandbox NFT Game is a virtual world where players can create, own, and monetize their virtual experiences using the game’s cryptocurrency, based on the Ethereum blockchain. The game empowers artists, creators, and players to unleash their creativity and create immersive experiences. The Sandbox is powered by three integrated tools: VoxEdit, Game Maker, and Marketplace.

Market Cap of Sandbox

The Sandbox price is $0.49 with a 24-hour trading volume of $73,926,001, a -0.81% change, and an all-time high of 8.4.

The Future of P2E Crypto Games

The future of gaming is earning while playing. P2e games empower players to become active participants in the game’s economy and potentially earn real-world rewards. With the P2E market expected to reach a staggering $8.8 billion by 2028, it’s clear that this trend is here to stay.  Blockchain game models are transforming players into investors by fostering ownership of in-game assets, potential for earning, participation in a decentralized economy, and increased engagement and retention. Players become owners of digital assets, which can fluctuate based on in-game demand and market forces. Earning potential is increased through quest completion, in-game creature breeding, and game economy participation. Participation in a decentralized economy allows players to profit from increased demand for certain assets, fostering investment responsibility.

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Conclusion

The transformation in the gaming landscape is huge. From traditional games to crypto games which focus on ownership, community building, and real-world income. As players realize financial opportunities, competition increases, leading to larger rewards. More development happens and it has associated risks like gambling and approach participation.  It is anticipated that P2E ecosystems will become more competitive as more new games launch each month. Thus, Crypto games have a promising future filled with immersive experiences and financial potential.