The Epic Games Store, a popular digital distribution platform for PC games, has announced that it will host every game built on the Ethereum scaling network Immutable. This is a major milestone for the blockchain gaming industry, as it will expose millions of gamers to the benefits of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and play-to-earn mechanics.
Immutable is a crypto tech firm that develops scaling solutions for Ethereum-based games and applications. It operates two networks: Immutable X and Immutable zkEVM. Immutable X is a layer-2 network that uses zero-knowledge proofs to achieve fast and cheap transactions without compromising security or decentralization. Immutable zkEVM is a layer-1.5 network that leverages Polygon’s zkEVM technology to enable smart contracts and NFTs on a zk-rollup.
Both networks are designed to support high-performance and user-friendly gaming experiences, while allowing players to own and trade their in-game assets as NFTs. Immutable also provides tools and services for game developers to create and launch their own blockchain games on its networks.
Which games are coming to the Epic Games Store?
According to Immutable, every game built on its networks will be eligible to be listed on the Epic Games Store, subject to Epic’s approval process. This means that gamers will be able to access a variety of NFT games from different genres and styles, such as:
- Illuvium: A fantasy action game that spans multiple game modes, including an open-world adventure and an auto-battler competitive mode. The game uses various NFTs, including virtual land plots, with one such digital land NFT sale yielding $72 million worth of purchases in June 2022.
- MetalCore: A sci-fi shooter game that combines first-person shooter and player-versus-environment mech-fighting elements. The game will leverage the Immutable zkEVM network for its crypto transactions beginning with its closed beta kickoff event on September 15.
- Shardbound: A fantasy player-versus-player card auto battler game that was resurrected as an NFT game by Immutable Games and game studio Bazooka Tango. The game features an innovative gameplay mechanic where players use cards to strategically place characters on a map with hexagonal tiles.
- Medieval Empires: A strategy game that plans to take a “play-and-own” approach to NFTs, where players can own the in-game items they find as they play. The game is currently playable on MacOS and Windows PCs, and the game studio has already released a token called MEE and virtual land Polygon NFTs.
- EF Defense: A mobile strategy game that challenges players to stop dark forces from taking over the fantasy world called the Land of Abundance on the Akaros continent. The game will use the Immutable zkEVM network for its NFT transactions.
- Galaxy Commanders: A player-versus-player sci-fi game that lets players own in-game battleships as NFTs, fight in an epic space opera setting, and complete various quests. The game will also use the Immutable zkEVM network
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Why is this a big deal for blockchain gaming?
The partnership between Immutable and Epic Games is a significant boost for the blockchain gaming industry, as it will expose millions of gamers to the potential of NFTs and play-to-earn mechanics. The Epic Games Store has over 160 million users and hosts some of the most popular games in the world, such as Fortnite, Rocket League, and Among Us. By listing NFT games on its platform, Epic Games is showing its support for the innovation and creativity that blockchain technology enables in the gaming space.
Moreover, the partnership will also benefit the game developers who use Immutable’s networks, as they will be able to reach a wider audience and generate more revenue from their games. Immutable claims that its networks can offer up to 9,000 transactions per second, zero gas fees, and instant trade confirmation, making them ideal for creating immersive and engaging gaming experiences. Additionally, Immutable also offers a generous revenue share model, where game developers can keep 88% of the sales from their games, compared to the industry standard of 70%.
The partnership between Immutable and Epic Games is a win-win situation for both parties, as well as for the blockchain gaming community. It will showcase the power and potential of NFTs and play-to-earn mechanics, while providing gamers with more choices and opportunities to enjoy and profit from their gaming passion.
