The Innoblock Summit 2024 hosted a panel discussion titled “From Concept to Reality: Key Success Factors for Web3 Gaming Projects in a Competitive Landscape.” Moderated by Anndy Lian, a blockchain advisor and author, the panel featured industry leaders: Aaron Goolsbey (COO, Mythical Games), Florence Li (CCO, METAY), Ricky Wong (Co-Founder, Catizen), JT (Marketing Lead, Seraph), and Alex S (Head of Eco Growth, GGI).
The discussion centered around the critical elements that contribute to a thriving Web3 gaming project. While acknowledging the importance of blockchain technology and tokenomics, panelists emphasized the need to prioritize engaging gameplay and compelling narratives.
Redefining Success Metrics in Web3 Gaming
Challenging the traditional focus on high conversion rates, Ricky Wong highlighted the importance of organic user engagement. Citing Catizen’s success, he suggested a conversion rate between 5% to 10% as a healthy benchmark for Web3 games, emphasizing the need to educate and onboard users from the traditional gaming sphere.
JT echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of attracting and retaining real users, not just incentivized participants. He stressed the need for seamless onboarding experiences, allowing players to enjoy the game before delving into the complexities of Web3 elements.
Beyond Tokenomics: The Power of Narrative and User Experience
Florence Li emphasized the often-overlooked aspect of storytelling in Web3 gaming. She argued that compelling narratives, captivating art, and well-developed game mechanics are crucial for attracting and retaining players, ultimately driving the value of in-game assets.
Aaron Goolsbey challenged the industry to move beyond the Web2 versus Web3 dichotomy, advocating for a focus on enhancing the gaming experience as a whole. He argued that Web3 technology should be seamlessly integrated to enhance existing gaming paradigms, citing Mythical Games’ NFL Rivals as a prime example. The game, with its integrated NFT marketplace, saw a significant increase in player engagement and retention, demonstrating the power of Web3 in adding value for players.
Monetization and Sustainability: Lessons from Web2 and Beyond
Addressing the question of profitability, Aaron Goolsbey acknowledged the inherent challenges of the gaming industry, where only a small percentage of games achieve significant financial success. He stressed the importance of applying proven game development and business practices, regardless of the underlying technology.
JT provided insights into Seraph’s dual revenue stream model, combining traditional in-app purchases with Web3 elements like NFT marketplaces and asset upgrades. This approach caters to a wider audience, allowing players to engage with the game on their own terms.
The Rise of Telegram Mini-Games: A Gateway to Mass Adoption?
The panel explored the burgeoning trend of Telegram mini-games and their potential impact on the Web3 gaming landscape. Aaron Goolsbey expressed excitement about the opportunity for user acquisition and overcoming the hurdle of wallet creation. He envisioned Telegram’s existing infrastructure as a seamless gateway for onboarding new users into the Web3 gaming ecosystem.
Alex S highlighted the potential of Telegram mini-games to attract traditional game developers, further enriching the Web3 gaming space. He emphasized the need for robust developer tools and support systems to foster a thriving ecosystem.
Florence Li and JT expressed optimism about the accessibility and ease of use of Telegram mini-games, making them an ideal entry point for new users. They envisioned a future where Web3 games seamlessly integrate with popular platforms like Telegram, driving mass adoption.
User Acquisition and Retention: Building a Loyal Community
The panelists agreed that user acquisition and retention are paramount for long-term success. Aaron Goolsbey stressed the importance of continuously adding value for players through engaging content and a well-balanced in-game economy.
Florence Li advocated for simplifying the onboarding process, making it easier for new users to experience the benefits of Web3 gaming. She also stressed the importance of creating high-quality content and assets that resonate with players.
The Future of Web3 Gaming: A Collaborative Effort
Anndy Lian concluded with a shared sense of optimism about the future of Web3 gaming. The panelists emphasized the need for collaboration, innovation, and a focus on user experience to unlock the full potential of this emerging technology. As the lines between Web2 and Web3 continue to blur, the future belongs to games that can seamlessly integrate blockchain technology to deliver engaging, rewarding, and truly player-owned gaming experiences.
Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.
Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.
An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.
