The world of NFT gaming is evolving rapidly, and one of the longest-running NFT games, Gods Unchained by Immutable Games Studio, is set to experience a revival in 2023. The game’s launch on the popular Epic Games Store, which had 230 million total users as of March, could attract a much larger audience. Gods Unchained will now coexist with other big-budget games like Fortnite and Web3 games such as Blankos Block Party and Grit on the Epic Games Store.
According to Daniel Paez, the executive producer of Gods Unchained, the release on the Epic Games Store provides millions of players with a familiar interface where they feel comfortable trying out new games. The consolidation of gaming platforms gives users reassurance about the game’s quality and security. Paez believes that familiarity is crucial, especially for blockchain games.
Interestingly, the version of Gods Unchained available on the Epic Games Store is no different from the one found on the game’s website. The focus remains on the gameplay without requiring users to sign up for a wallet or handle crypto assets immediately.
Since its launch in 2018 on the Ethereum mainnet, Gods Unchained has migrated to Immutable X, the studio’s scaling network which allows for faster and more affordable transactions. Paez, who previously worked on Hearthstone at Blizzard Entertainment, believes that the core game of Gods Unchained is strong, but it lacks the additional content and gameplay modes that keep players engaged in the long term.
Immutable’s roadmap for the coming year includes launching new game modes and a “very large” expansion pack with more cards to enhance available strategies. The company also plans to broaden the lore surrounding the game universe.
In addition, Gods Unchained is expanding beyond the PC world with iOS and Android versions in development. During an Android testing period, players logged over 60,000 game sessions, offering positive feedback. Immutable Games Studio is developing the mobile versions in collaboration with partner studio iLogos.
However, tackling the complexities of mobile app development is challenging when Apple and Google control their respective platforms as centralized “walled gardens.” To avoid issues with in-app purchase fees, Gods Unchained will not have an in-game NFT marketplace on mobile. Instead, they will comply with each platform’s rules and focus on making the game more accessible, hoping to grow the player base.
Paez acknowledges the influence of Apple and Google but cites Hearthstone’s expansion to mobile, which increased play sessions on PC and attracted new players, as a precedent for success. He hopes to replicate the same growth with Gods Unchained, ultimately leading to a better gaming experience.
Source: Decrypt
