In-Depth Research on Blockchain Games: The Core of Native Encryption, Bubble or Revolution?

Full-chain games will put all interactive behaviors and states of the game on-chain, including game logic, data storage, digital assets, and game status, all processed by the blockchain, thus achieving true decentralized gaming. The main features of full-chain games include:

1. The authenticity of the data source is ensured by blockchain. Blockchain is not only an auxiliary storage for data but also the true source of game data.

2. The logic and rules of the game are implemented through smart contracts. Various operations in the game are executed on the chain, ensuring the traceability and security of the game logic.

3. Game development follows the principles of an open ecosystem. Game contracts and clients adopt an open-source model, providing creative space for third-party developers.

4. The game is independent of the client. Even if the core developer's client disappears, the game can still continue.

Why do we need on-chain games?

The traditional gaming industry faces two major dilemmas: first, game publishing is restricted by license numbers, and second, the costs before game publishing are too high, resulting in a slow return period and easily leading to sunk costs.

The full-chain game bypasses version number restrictions by targeting global users, while also generating income in the early stages of the game through the issuance of NFTs and tokens, thus reducing the financial entry barrier.

Current Status of the Full-Chain Gaming Industry

Currently, the entire blockchain gaming ecosystem is in a very early stage, which can be divided into four main categories: blockchain gaming projects, blockchain gaming engines, blockchain gaming chains, and blockchain gaming distribution platforms.

full-chain game project

Currently, the number of playable on-chain games is no more than 30, mainly including Dark Forest, Loot Survivor, Sky Strife, Imminent Solace, etc. The overall game type is primarily SLG( strategy).

Full-Chain Game Engine

Mainly includes two major mainstream engines, Mud and Dojo, building an EVM-compatible ecosystem and Starknet ecosystem.

All-Chain Game Chain

Currently, full-chain game projects are mainly deployed on general Layer 2 solutions such as Arbitrum Nova, Optimism, and Starknet. Some teams like Argus and Curio are developing proprietary chains specifically for full-chain games.

Full Chain Game Aggregator/Distribution Platform

There are mainly two platforms: Composable Hub and Cartridge.

Core Advantages of Full-Chain Games

1. From PGR to UGR, giving everyone the opportunity to become the rule-makers.

2. Fairness and transparency, experiencing a game environment that is not manipulated.

Challenges Facing Full-Chain Games

1. Poor user experience. The picture quality is rough, the interaction experience is poor, it is difficult to match players, the barriers are high, and bugs occur frequently.

2. The game type is limited. Currently, it is mainly strategy games, and it is difficult to implement game types that require high real-time performance.

3. Real demand or pseudo demand. There is still doubt whether the core advantages of blockchain games truly address player needs.

4. Complete decentralization may cause chaos. It is necessary to balance professional game design and players' freedom of creation.

Considerations on the Business Model of Full-Chain Games

Different business models can be adopted based on the type of game:

1. Lightweight Game: NFT + Token Fee

2. Open Narrative Games: Paywall + Subscription Membership

3. Board Games: Refer to the traditional commission model.

Summary

The full-chain gaming is still in the exploratory stage and faces many challenges. In the future, it is necessary to fully leverage the advantages of UGR and fairness, balance the wealth creation effect and playability, and truly address player needs in order to achieve large-scale application. We look forward to the emergence of gaming projects that utilize the characteristics of the full chain and meet real demands.