This opinion piece explores how the Games-as-a-Service （GaaS） model can bridge the gap between traditional web2 gaming and the emerging web3 gaming ecosystem, highlighting the potential for sustainable growth and innovation.
Points
- The GaaS model has been successful in web2 gaming through free-to-play （F2P） mechanisms.
- Blockchain technology offers new monetization opportunities for web3 gaming.
- Integrating the best of both worlds can create a sustainable and engaging gaming experience.
Historically, the Games-as-a-Service （GaaS） model has thrived in web2 gaming by offering free-to-play （F2P） games with monetization through in-game purchases. This model’s success is due to its low entry barrier and continuous revenue streams. However, the sustainability of F2P GaaS is under threat due to market saturation and rising user acquisition costs.
Blockchain technology presents a beacon of hope for the gaming industry, offering new avenues for monetization and player engagement. Initial attempts at integrating blockchain into gaming focused on NFT collectibles. However, these models often required a continuous influx of new players to remain viable, leading to unsustainable growth.
The gaming community remains divided between traditional gamers, who seek entertainment and engaging gameplay, and speculators attracted by the financial incentives of play-to-earn （P2E） models. This divide underscores the need for a more integrated approach that combines the strengths of both web2 and web3 gaming.
At GFAL （Games For A Living）, we aim to bridge this divide through an innovative business model that integrates ownership, seasonality, and standardization across games. Our model allows players to own in-game collectibles, which they can monetize beyond the gaming environment. This ownership aspect is complemented by a seasonality system that keeps games engaging and fresh.
Our business model also includes a standardized system for game collectibles, ensuring each has a rarity and level based on the time invested. This approach prevents inflation within the game’s economy and encourages a healthy exchange in the marketplace.
Beyond the business model, delivering an exceptional gaming experience is crucial. Developers must focus on creating games that are enjoyable on their own merits, with blockchain elements enhancing rather than dominating the gameplay. To support this, GFAL is developing a robust ecosystem, including a proprietary personal ID system and a multi-game marketplace, designed to reduce friction for players transitioning from web2 to web3.
As we prepare to launch new titles, the gaming industry is watching closely to see if this new model can set a standard for how games are played, owned, and monetized. We believe this approach could herald a new era for the gaming industry, one where the line between web2 and web3 is effectively erased, creating a unified gaming experience that respects both the roots of gaming culture and its future potential.
解説
- Games-as-a-Service （GaaS） Model: The GaaS model’s success in web2 gaming through F2P mechanisms is evident, but its sustainability is challenged by market saturation.
- Blockchain Integration: Blockchain technology offers new monetization opportunities for web3 gaming, addressing issues like market saturation and rising acquisition costs.
- GFAL’s Approach: GFAL’s innovative business model combines ownership, seasonality, and standardization, creating a sustainable and engaging gaming experience.
- Future Potential: The integration of web2 and web3 elements in gaming could set a new standard, offering a unified gaming experience that leverages the strengths of both ecosystems.