Blockchain is revolutionizing many industries, and the gaming world is no exception. In this lesson, we’ll explain what blockchain is, how games built on this technology work, and the key differences between the traditional Play-to-Win model and the innovative Play-to-Earn approach. The content is presented in an easy-to-understand manner so that even someone new to cryptocurrencies can grasp these concepts.
What Is Blockchain?
Blockchain, also known as a digital ledger, is an innovative way to record and transfer transactions securely. Each transaction is stored in a “block,” and these blocks are linked together in a chain. This process ensures that:
- Data is transparent: Everyone can see the recorded information.
- Security is high: Changing data in one block would require altering all subsequent blocks, which is practically impossible.
Blockchain isn’t limited to finance—it’s also making waves in gaming and other industries.
Play-to-Win vs. Play-to-Earn
In gaming, two main models are emerging:
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Play-to-Win:
In this centralized model, all information about players, their progress, and achievements is stored on servers controlled by the game developers. Players often need to purchase items that enhance their characters, but they don’t have full control over their accounts or in-game assets. -
Play-to-Earn:
This decentralized model gives players complete control over their characters and assets. Here, you can earn digital assets like tokens and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) just by playing. These digital assets can later be exchanged for real money or used in other games. The Play-to-Earn model not only changes how you enjoy gaming but also introduces the possibility of earning real rewards.
Why Are Play-to-Earn Games Attractive?
Games built on blockchain technology offer several benefits for both players and creators:
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For Players:
- True Ownership: You gain full control over your in-game items and characters.
- Real Rewards: Tokens and NFTs earned during gameplay can have real-world value.
- Fair Play: Decentralization ensures that no one can manipulate the game results.
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For Creators:
- Higher Engagement: Innovative gameplay attracts more users and builds a vibrant community.
- New Opportunities: Integrating blockchain and NFTs opens up exciting possibilities for game design and the development of Metaverse concepts.
While the Play-to-Earn model is promising, it’s still in its early stages. It’s important to research who is behind a game, understand its economic model (tokenomics), and evaluate the incentives provided for holding or earning tokens.
Examples of Popular Play-to-Earn Games (August 2025)
Here are a few games that have successfully adopted the Play-to-Earn model:
Pixels (PIXEL) – A browser-based “farming MMO” on the Ronin blockchain. After a successful launch, the game has entered “Chapter 2”, introducing new lands, a guild system, and unique pets, which has refreshed the economy and player engagement. Users continue to earn PIXEL and the in-game BERRY tokens for daily quests.
Axie Infinity – The P2E classic maintains a strong position thanks to the popularity of its Homeland and Origins modes. The first closed beta tests for the anticipated MMO Atia’s Legacy have begun, and the community is eagerly awaiting wider access planned for the end of 2025. Rewards are still paid out in AXS and SLP.
Parallel TCG (PRIME) – A futuristic F2P card game that is now in open beta—Season 16 is currently live, introducing the new “Planetfall” card expansion. For ranked matches and esports tournaments, players collect the PRIME token, which can be used to purchase cards or be sold on an exchange.
Big Time (BIGTIME) – A free-to-play action-RPG with NFT loot drops. After the preseason phase, the official Season 1 has launched, introducing new dungeons, cosmetic classes, and a revamped prestige system for earning BIGTIME tokens.
Treeverse (END) – A mobile MMORPG (iOS/Android/PC) on Immutable zkEVM. Following the success of the first campaign, the developers are now preparing for Season 2, planned for the autumn, which is expected to introduce world bosses and new story quest lines.
Pirate Nation (PIRATE) – A fully on-chain RPG on Arbitrum. After the spring “Deadman’s Heart” event, the “Summer Cursed Seas” event launched in the summer, introducing new crafting mechanics and legendary items with a prize pool of 1.5 million PIRATE.
Shrapnel (SHRAP) – A highly anticipated AAA extraction-shooter. The early access version is now available on the Epic Games Store for holders of operator NFTs, and the full, free-to-play launch is still planned for the end of 2025.
Aurory: Seekers of Tokane (AURY) – A roguelite with “monster-catching” elements on Solana and Arbitrum. Following the April mobile launch, the team has focused on expanding the PvP (player-vs-player) ecosystem, introducing ranked seasons with larger prize pools in AURY tokens.
Summary
Blockchain technology is opening up exciting new possibilities in the world of gaming. Play-to-Earn games merge fun and the potential to earn real money, giving players full control over their assets and rewarding them with valuable tokens and NFTs. While the concept is still evolving, it’s clear that this model is reshaping the future of gaming and digital entertainment. As with any emerging technology, always do your research before investing time or money into a new game or platform.
