"In a decentralized system, risk is spread across communities, allowing for more creative and rapid development. It's a fertile environment for experimentation and innovation." - Saro McKenna

Introduction

‍The landscape of gaming is rapidly evolving, propelled by the emergence of Web3 technologies. In a recent panel discussion titled "Inside the Mind of a Web3 Gamer," industry experts delved deep into the nuances of this evolving space. Moderated by Stephen Graves, the panel featured insights from Sami Chlagou, CEO of Cross The Ages, Linda Ang, Head of Strategy at aelf, and Saro McKenna, CEO & Co-Founder of Dacoco (Alien Worlds).

Understanding the Web3 Gamer

‍The conversation began with an exploration of who the Web3 gamer is and what drives their engagement. Saro McKenna highlighted the shift in focus from speculative value to community-driven experiences. He emphasized the resilience of blockchain gamers, who are drawn to the deeper value offered by utility NFTs and community participation.

Expanding the Reach of Web3 Gaming

‍The panelists discussed the importance of broadening the reach of Web3 gaming beyond niche audiences. Linda Ang emphasized the potential in the Asian market, where over 50% of Web3 games were produced in 2023. She advocated for a holistic approach that targets both Web2 and Web3 gamers, leveraging traditional channels like social media for outreach.

Challenges and Opportunities

‍Addressing the challenges faced by the industry, the panelists emphasized the need for continuous innovation and education. Sami Chlagou highlighted the low barriers to entry in Web3 gaming, leading to a proliferation of projects without a clear target audience or game focus. He stressed the importance of building compelling narratives and experiences to attract and retain players.

Empowering Community-Led Development

‍The conversation shifted to the role of community ownership in driving innovation and development. Saro McKenna discussed the decentralized nature of Web3 gaming, where communities play a crucial role in shaping narratives, building technologies, and fostering engagement. He highlighted the success of Alien Worlds in empowering its community to create and distribute games within the metaverse.

Future Outlook

‍Looking ahead, the panelists expressed optimism about the future of Web3 gaming. Linda Ang emphasized the need for better market conditions and the entry of big players like Epic Games to catalyze growth. Saro McKenna echoed the sentiment, stressing the importance of collective success for the ecosystem's reputation and sustainability.

Conclusion

‍As Web3 gaming continues to evolve, it presents both challenges and opportunities for stakeholders. By embracing community-driven approaches, fostering innovation, and expanding outreach efforts, the industry can unlock its full potential and redefine the gaming landscape for years to come.

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Watch the full talk here