The beta phase improves game quality
Amit Mahajan, creator of Farmville and Pirate Nation, emphasizes the importance of beta releases in game development, especially in the blockchain gaming space. Mahajan argues that releasing games incrementally and evolving them based on community feedback results in higher quality and more engaging final products.
“I actually like this whole build thing openly. It’s always evolving the game. It’s like releasing and iterating,” Mahajan shared with Cointelegraph. He believes that early feedback is invaluable, citing Farmville’s iterative improvements, which were initially built in just five weeks but are constantly updated based on user input.
Building and Engaging with Community
Mahajan emphasizes that the progressive release model not only improves the quality of the game, but also helps build a strong community. He explains that while developing Pirate Nation, a fully on-chain, free-to-play pirate-themed role-playing game (RPG), the community’s interest in the technology and ongoing development played a vital role in shaping the game. “Most people in our community were there because they thought what we were doing was really cool using technology,” Mahajan said.
Cryptocurrency Rewards in Blockchain Games
Sam Saliba, former vice president of global marketing at Activision Blizzard, suggests that blockchain gaming companies should rethink their marketing strategies. He argues that emphasizing blockchain technology and cryptocurrency rewards may not be the best approach. “Most gamers don’t care what chain a game is on, they just want a compelling and fun experience,” Saliba told Cointelegraph.
He believes that games should be marketed as entertainment products, focusing on storytelling, exciting gameplay, and unique experiences rather than on basic technology. Saliba also questions the need for cryptocurrency rewards in blockchain games.
“I don’t think it’s important to include cryptocurrency rewards and income as part of a blockchain game,” he said, explaining that while these rewards appeal to a niche market focused on financial incentives, most players are driven by the fun and engaging aspects of the game itself. Instead, Saliba advocates “compelling player progression systems” and reward gameplay design to keep players engaged.
The growing appeal of Web3 Gaming
According to Crypto News, despite skepticism from some in the traditional gaming industry, Saliba sees potential in Web3 games, especially considering the recent layoffs and decline in investment in traditional games. “Web3 games seem to be growing at a better rate, and many projects in Web3 games seem to be securing funding more easily,” he said. He also points out that Web3 gives developers more creative freedom, allowing them to focus on innovative projects rather than repetitive franchise sequels.