As we’ve closed the chapter of 2024 and entered the dawn of a new year, we’ve been asking some of the key members of the blockchain gaming sector about their thoughts on the past year and what they expect in 2025.
Russell Bennett is the CEO of Metacade.
What was the most significant trend for the sector in 2024?
The biggest trend of 2024 has been the shift to gameplay-first experiences. We’ve seen titles like Call of the Void and Off the Grid lead the way by putting gameplay front and center, without relying on tokenomics or NFT mechanics to create interest. This marks a significant step forward for the industry, proving that engaging, high-quality games can stand on their own. This narrative shift has been a bright spot in a year where the broader gaming and blockchain sectors have faced stagnation or decline. It’s an encouraging sign for the future of gaming.
How did the focus of your business change this year?
The most significant change in our business focus this year has been the creation of Metacade’s Level Up suite, a subscription-based product aimed at supporting gaming studios with the affordable tools they need to go to market.
Many studios are building on tight budgets, and until now, there wasn’t a solution designed to provide consistent marketing and exposure for teams with great products but limited funding. Level Up addresses this gap, offering a fit-for-purpose platform that helps studios succeed. It’s already gaining traction, and we expect 2025 to be a breakout year for this product as it helps more developers bring their games to a wider audience.
What do you predict will be the most important trends in 2025?
For the first time, we’re heading into a bull run where the industry is prioritising user interface, user experience, and consumer accessibility. Companies like Coinbase and Base are leading the charge by simplifying account creation, removing friction like gas fees, and creating an environment that’s truly ready for mass adoption. This is the most welcoming ecosystem for new users we’ve ever seen.
Gaming, as a global and universal application, will naturally lead the way. If blockchain products are easy to use and the experience is seamless, gaming will be the entry point for millions, driving the broader adoption of crypto in a meaningful way.
What was your favourite blockchain game of the year?
I’m a big fan of Wilder Worlds. This project has consistently impressed me, both with its innovation and its ability to push boundaries in the gaming and blockchain space. What they’ve achieved this year is nothing short of remarkable, and I believe their trajectory will only continue upward in 2025. It’s rare to find projects that blend creativity, community, and technology so seamlessly, and Wilder Worlds serves as a prime example of what’s possible when everything aligns. They’ve become a personal favorite of mine, and I look forward to seeing how they evolve in the coming year.
What’s your New Year’s resolution and what resolution would you enforce on the industry?
My resolution? Trust in the process and stick to your plan. If a group of experienced people has aligned on a strategy, have the conviction to follow through. Over the past two years, we’ve worked hard to build something meaningful, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see those efforts come to fruition.
For gaming studios, the biggest lesson is that time is critical. You need to get your product into players’ hands as soon as possible. If you’re still building or tweaking by January 2025, you’ll miss the bull run entirely. This is a unique moment in the industry, and it rewards those who are prepared.
Check out all the 2024 End-of-Year interviews here >>
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