The Changing Landscape: How the Pandemic and Play-to-Earn Gaming Are Shaping the Future

The Changing Landscape: How the Pandemic and Play-to-Earn Gaming Are Shaping the Future

The coronavirus pandemic has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on various aspects of our lives, including the way we eat. With lockdowns and restrictions forcing people to stay at home, it comes as no surprise that about 70% of respondents expect to cook more at home even post-COVID. Additionally, approximately 80% of individuals anticipate maintaining their current levels of home-cooked meals even after the pandemic subsides. This shift in behavior has also resulted in a decreased interest in dining out, with nearly half of those surveyed expressing their intention to eat at restaurants less frequently in the future. Furthermore, the survey found that individuals are relying less on delivery or takeout services, opting to cook at home instead.

While the pandemic has played a significant role in changing our eating habits, it is not the only factor reshaping our lives. The emergence of web3 and the concept of "play-to-earn" gaming have also garnered attention and are revolutionizing the way work is perceived and carried out. One of the prominent examples of play-to-earn gaming is the game Axie Infinity, developed by Sky Mavis, a Vietnam-based company. Players of this game acquire unique digital pets called Axies and engage in battles with other teams. What sets Axie Infinity apart is its integration of economic incentives, allowing players to earn real money through gameplay.

The idea behind Axie Infinity's success lies in the recognition that individuals should be able to participate in the value they create. This principle aligns with the core belief of web3, where the aim is to distribute value back to the community and creators. By removing middlemen such as app stores and game publishers, Axie Infinity ensures that the majority of the generated revenue goes directly to the players. This decentralized approach not only empowers individuals to earn a livelihood through gaming but also fosters a sense of ownership and shared economic alignment within the community.

The Philippines, in particular, has embraced Axie Infinity and play-to-earn gaming with enthusiasm. With a deep-rooted love for mobile games and relatively high crypto literacy, the Filipino community has quickly adopted this new form of gaming and income generation. The communal culture in the Philippines facilitates the rapid spread of information and trends, making it an ideal environment for the growth of play-to-earn gaming. Moreover, the success of Axie Infinity has been driven by referrals, with 80% of users coming from existing community members. This interconnectedness and shared cultural values contribute to the vibrant ecosystem surrounding Axie Infinity.

Looking ahead, it is crucial for the long-term sustainability of play-to-earn gaming to ensure continued participation and engagement. Capital inflows are currently essential for the growth of Axie Infinity, but the goal is to create an economy where players genuinely enjoy the game and find value beyond financial gains. By framing Axie Infinity as both a game and a social network, the developers aim to cater to different groups of players with diverse motivations. This multifaceted approach ensures that the community remains dynamic and appealing to a broad range of individuals.

To further strengthen the play-to-earn gaming ecosystem, three actionable pieces of advice can be considered:

• 1. Foster Community Engagement: By creating community-based structures that onboard new players, teach them the intricacies of the game, and help them navigate the world of cryptocurrencies, the reliance on traditional middlemen like Facebook and Google can be reduced. This approach not only empowers individuals but also cultivates a sense of belonging and shared purpose within the community.

• 2. Lower Barriers to Entry: Historically, entering the realm of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology has been challenging for many individuals due to technical complexities and high barriers to entry. Simplifying the onboarding process and providing user-friendly interfaces can make the transition smoother, attracting a wider audience to play-to-earn gaming.

• 3. Emphasize the Value of Gaming: While financial incentives are undoubtedly a driving force behind play-to-earn gaming, it is essential to highlight the intrinsic value of gaming itself. By focusing on creating an enjoyable and immersive gaming experience, developers can ensure that individuals engage with the game not solely for monetary gains but also for the sheer pleasure of playing.

In conclusion, the coronavirus pandemic has reshaped the way Americans eat, with a significant increase in home-cooked meals and a decreased interest in dining out. Simultaneously, the emergence of play-to-earn gaming, exemplified by Axie Infinity, is transforming the concept of work in the web3 era. By aligning economic incentives and promoting community involvement, play-to-earn gaming offers individuals the opportunity to earn money while enjoying their favorite games. As this innovative approach gains momentum, fostering community engagement, lowering barriers to entry, and emphasizing the value of gaming will be key to ensuring the continued success of this groundbreaking movement.