In the realm of game development and online trends, none is currently more talked about than NFTs. And whether you follow the technology online as an enthusiast or a business, you can’t deny the attention it’s receiving.
Most of us have heard about the current direction of the global market, with several companies trying their luck at implementing a form of blockchain-based tech into their business models. So, it’s no surprise that we’re seeing NFT game development too. But you’ll want to pay attention even if you’ve never come across the concept before. After all, NFTs are considered very lucrative.
However, there are still dangers afoot. That’s why we’re taking a stroll through NFT game development. We’ll provide insights into:
- how to make NTF games,
- whether or not they’re the right move for your game’s audience, and
- what can go wrong when developing a game with the tech?
So, without any delays, let’s strap in, boot up those game engines, and jump straight into the topic. We’ll begin by catching you up on the tech and then moving into the complexities of development.
What is an NFT, and What Does It Do?
If you understand cryptocurrency, you’ll have no trouble picking up the concept of NFTs. They’re essentially using the same blockchain technology. But unlike the standard Bitcoins, which each have the same value, these “non-fungible tokens” have their own individual values. Unfortunately, that concept might be hard to grasp. So, let’s simplify it further.
Blockchain tech, which is the basis for all crypto and NFTs, is a kind of database stored across large quantities of computers simultaneously. But this isn’t the same as the traditional internet model. So, there are no centralized nodes that form servers. Instead, the blockchain provides decentralized storage of data.
Tokens like crypto are like ledger entries on the blockchain. These units are assets for users. The fungible aspect of these tokens means they hold a standardized value. Thus, forming the basis for cryptocurrency.
However, what about tokens that aren’t fungible? Tokens like artwork that have no identical value? Well, those need to be transferable too. And that’s where the concept of NFTs was developed. It’s a form of blockchain token where each “item” holds its own value to be uniquely traded.
Each NFT is a single authentic copy that exists. Therefore, it cannot be divided or duplicated. And only one person can be the owner of the digital certificate attached to the object or NFT.
Understanding and Learning How to Make NFT Games
Gaming and NFTs are not something you’d expect to go together. But they make sense when you consider the current implementation. For example, games like Axie Infinity, Star Atlas, and Ember Sword use blockchain-based tech for digital objects. Essentially, turning them into non-fungible tokens that players can trade and sell. As a result, they benefit the game developer through the sale of their items. Such NFTs can include skins, in-game items, assets, and even weapons.
But before you begin learning how to make NFT games, there are several things you need to consider. Here’s a list of what you should have in mind.
- Are NFTs the right move for your game?
- What game model will you use?
- Game design, testing, and development costs
- Platforms like Web, PC, Mobile, or Console
- Wallet Functionality
- Front-end and back-end stages
- Smart Contracts
Let’s take a look at and discuss each of these.
1. NFT Game Development – the Right Move?
While learning how to make NFT games seems like a good idea, you need to ask, “Is it the right move?” After all, not all audiences and gamers are interested in the trend. In addition, we’ve also seen the failure of several NFT games over the last two years. Of course, there are a number of reasons to cause this issue. For example, the crash in cryptocurrency and even a lack of interest or community disapproval. So, be 100% sure it’s the right move for your company before going ahead.
2. Game Models You Can Use
The next stage involves choosing a game model. Most NFT games follow fit into two simple groups. Pay-to-earn (P2E) and free-to-play (F2P). P2E games involve players first purchasing an NFT and then seeing a return on investment later on. On the other hand, F2P games don’t need players to spend money initially. But the player earnings from this model are significantly lower in return. The best way to decide which model to use is by analyzing your audience. That way, you can determine whether your players are okay with P2E or F2P.
3. Costs – Game Design, Testing and Development
The third consideration is the costs involved with game development. Of course, these will be standard, depending on your game’s scope. For example, the engine, graphics, story, voice acting, mechanics, and more. But you also have additional costs outside of the game design elements. For example, testing and even the platform you choose. Testing covers functional aspects, UI, API, and even blockchain implementation.
4. Platforms – Web, PC, Mobile or Console
Up next, the platform you choose to develop on can open your game to a wider audience. For example, the current mobile gaming market has over a billion players. Of course, web, PC, and console have their own benefits too. Therefore, it’s best to understand your target group and the devices they use regularly. Then, focus on the NFT game development for that platform. Choosing the one that best suits your audience and target group will have the biggest impact on your game’s performance.
5. Wallet Functionality
All cryptocurrency is stored using blockchain tech. But users still need to access it. That’s what digital wallets are used for. They allow users to store their crypto and perform various functions with it. However, these wallets need to be secure. And each needs to meet the following user requirements:
- Public and private key access
- Multiple levels of security
NFT game development requires wallet functionality. So, keep that in mind while you create and develop your own.
6. Stages – Front-End, Back-End, and Contracts
Finally, we come to the interactions with the front-end, back-end, and smart contracts. Let’s first begin with the front end. This component deals with the interactions and the client-side interface, which developers and software solutions can handle easily. So, you don’t need to worry. Just implement them. Then, we have smart contracts. These deal with the URL of your NFT. They bridge the connection between the wallets and front-end requests by providing the link to the item. Finally, we come to the back-end stage. This component handles the metadata of your NFT. Ultimately sending it to the front-end. In the end, these elements work together to help users perform actions.
Moving Forward with NFT Game Development
That’s all we have to say about games and NFT game development with our quick guide. We’ve discussed all the topics, from the basics of the technology to development requirements. And we hope you’ve learned from our guide.
NFT game development requires a lot of attention. So, focus on the things we’ve listed above. Always analyze whether your game is the right step for your audience. Choose the right model during development. And plan the costs, platforms, and stages. This will help you streamline your process while you’re learning how to make NFT games.
