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 (November 2025)
1. Pixels (PIXEL) This is the browser-based “farming MMO” on the Ronin blockchain, which is like a digital farm that never sleeps. Following a successful launch, the game entered “Chapter 2,” introducing new lands, a guild system, and unique pets. The main effort is now focused on full integration with Ronin wallets, designed to ease the entry of new players from traditional gaming, solidifying PIXEL as the standard in the farming P2E category.
2. Axie Infinity This P2E classic maintains a strong position by operating on multiple fronts. The popularity of the Homeland and Origins modes is stable, but the entire community is now focused on the first open tests of the highly anticipated MMO, Atia’s Legacy, which is set to be a vast, new digital continent for players. Broader access is planned for the end of 2025, serving as the main catalyst for rewards paid out in AXS and SLP.
3. Big Time (BIGTIME) A free action-RPG that acts like a digital, fast-paced treasure hunter, now with the highest stakes. Following the conclusion of the preseason phase and the launch of the official Season 1, Big Time has climbed the ranks thanks to the success of the “Rift System.” These are randomly generated, high-level zones that offer the rarest NFT-loots and the largest pools of BIGTIME tokens, focusing the game on high-level end-game content for the most dedicated players.
4. Parallel TCG (PRIME) A futuristic F2P card game now in open beta, where strategy is as crucial as the digital asset. Season 17 is currently underway, introducing the second major card expansion, “The Void.” Players collect the PRIME token for ranked matches and e-sports tournaments. A new staking system has also been introduced, allowing PRIME holders to participate in the profits from the game’s transaction fee pool.
5. Treeverse (END) A mobile MMORPG (iOS/Android/PC) on Immutable zkEVM, which is accessible to everyone, like a pocket-sized fantasy. Season 2 is fully operational, introducing world bosses and key, extensive story questlines that reward players with unique NFTs and more END tokens. The focus on mobile content continues to drive mass adoption.
6. Pirate Nation (PIRATE) A fully on-chain RPG on Arbitrum, where every action is recorded in the digital logbook. Following the summer event, the autumn event, “The Kraken’s Lament,” is now running, focusing on massive PvP naval battles. The prize pool in PIRATE tokens and legendary NFT equipment for the most effective “captains” fuels the competition and engagement.
7. Shrapnel (SHRAP) The highly anticipated AAA extraction-shooter, which is like a digital, adrenaline-fueled arena. The early access version, available to NFT Operator holders, has been well-received, and the full, free launch is imminent and expected any moment. Community tournaments for SHRAP tokens and unique map NFTs are currently underway. The game aims to be the quality standard for P2E games in the FPS model.
8. Aurory: Seekers of Tokane (AURY) A roguelite with “monster-catching” elements on Solana and Arbitrum, which is like a traveler across digital, diverse worlds. The team has focused on expanding the PvP ecosystem (player-versus-player). The third, major ranked season is currently running, featuring the largest prize pools in AURY tokens and the introduction of new, legendary monsters to catch, increasing engagement in the competitive mode.
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.
