As the year draws to an end, we’re asking some of the key members of the blockchain gaming sector what they thought about what happened in 2023, and what they expect in 2024. You can check out all our interviews in this series here.
Michael Rubinelli is the chief gaming officer at WAX blockchain.
What was the most significant news of 2023 in web3, gaming, developments?
Expenditure on content development and the investment in web3 games experienced a significant recovery from the challenges faced during the crypto-winter of 2022. Wallet growth witnessed a commendable 12% increase, and the sector attracted an influx of $600 million in venture capital funding for game development across various blockchain networks.
Just a year ago, conventional gaming press, companies, and players were quick to dismiss web3 games, predicting their demise. However, such discussions proved premature and persistently fail to capture the ongoing vitality of web3 gaming
How did the focus of WAX change this year?
It wasn’t so much a shift in focus as it was a refinement of ideas and features, driven by player behavior and audience preferences. We believe we’ve consistently followed the correct trajectory, adapting how we present our progress. To clarify, our definition of the right path is centered on prioritizing the creation of the best gaming experience possible. Our exceptional games will distinguish themselves by granting players complete control over their in-game items.
We’re committed to distancing ourselves from the subpar “games” that have tarnished the reputation of the web3 movement. Our dedication to building outstanding gaming content has enabled us to engage in collaborations with companies such as Amazon, Epic, and Razer, enhancing our ability to bring compelling content to a broader audience.
What do you predict will be the most important trends in 2024?
The highlight of the 2021 bull run lies in the substantial investments directed towards Triple A classic game development studios, aiming to usher in a new era of true AAA gaming within the realm of web3. Anticipating the fruition of this trend, it is anticipated that several of these high-quality games will find their place on blockchains by the year 2024. Among these, Shrapnel stands out as a particularly intriguing game that we are eagerly awaiting to observe in action.
Should these showcase titles manifest with top-notch production values, supported by strategic live operations, there is a strong belief that a significant influx of non-crypto-savvy players will enter the scene, seeking to understand the buzz surrounding this innovative gaming landscape.
What was your favorite blockchain game of the year?
Brawlers of course. It continues to set the bar very high for web3 games.
What’s your New Year’s resolution and what resolution would you enforce on the blockchain gaming industry?
I generally don’t wait for a designated day to adopt new behaviors. Lately, my emphasis has been on cultivating a habit of “responding” rather than “reacting” to situations. I’ve observed that maintaining some distance and gaining perspective consistently results in better outcomes.
If I were to share a piece of wisdom or a principle for the blockchain devs, it would be this: when faced with a 50/50 decision, always opt for the choice that advances a player-centric initiative. Prioritizing the well-being of those involved more frequently than not proves beneficial in the grand scheme of things.
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