Decentraland is introducing a new feature aimed at enhancing user engagement and creator support. Beginning May 19, participants in the platform can earn up to eight Marketplace Credits each week through a limited-time beta program. These Credits, designed to be used exclusively within the Decentraland Marketplace, allow users to acquire avatar customizations such as Wearables and Emotes without requiring direct MANA spending. The initiative is part of a broader $2 million plan by the Decentraland Foundation to strengthen the platform’s creator economy and user interaction.

The beta program will run for eight weeks, concluding on July 13 unless ended earlier due to high demand. During this period, users can earn Credits by completing weekly in-world goals. These activities include tasks such as logging in and attending events. The program is structured to reward consistent participation rather than high-volume spending, reflecting Decentraland’s commitment to a more inclusive and active community.

Decentraland Introduces Marketplace Credits

About Decentraland

Founded in 2020, Decentraland is the first decentralized, community-driven virtual world that empowers users to create, explore, and connect within an open, immersive digital landscape where they own their digital assets. From hosting virtual events to designing your digital identity, it enables users to shape a world that prioritizes self-expression and freedom, without the limitations of corporate control.

How Marketplace Credits Work

Marketplace Credits function as a platform-specific reward that mirrors the value of MANA in the Decentraland Marketplace. Each Credit holds the equivalent purchasing power of one MANA and can be used to buy Polygon-based Wearables and Emotes priced at one MANA or more. However, these Credits are not transferable, cannot be traded, and are restricted to use within the primary sales section of the Marketplace.

The Credits must be used before they expire. Any unused Credits will become invalid on July 27 at 23:59 UTC, after the end of the beta. Credits can also be combined with other payment methods when users wish to purchase higher-priced items. By maintaining these constraints, Decentraland aims to manage the economy of its virtual marketplace while still promoting user engagement and creator support.

Participation and Claim Process

To participate in the rewards program, users must first activate the feature by confirming their email address. Once enrolled, users will have access to a rewards dashboard within the Decentraland Explorer interface. This is where they can view their weekly progress, claim earned Credits, and navigate directly to eligible items in the Marketplace.

Each weekly cycle starts at 00:00 UTC on Monday and ends at 23:59 UTC on Sunday. The weekly tasks remain consistent throughout the beta period, providing a predictable and accessible structure. When a goal is completed, users must solve a CAPTCHA in order to claim their Credits. The system requires manual claiming before the weekly reset; otherwise, unclaimed Credits for that week will be lost.

Decentraland Introduces Marketplace Credits

Spending Marketplace Credits in the Marketplace

To spend Marketplace Credits, users can activate a filter labeled "Get with Credits" located under "Special Filters" in the Marketplace. This filter displays only the items eligible for purchase using Credits, which includes Polygon-based Wearables and Emotes priced at one MANA or higher.

When viewing an eligible item, users can enable the “Get with Credits” option. If the user’s Credit balance is sufficient, the price will update to zero. If not, the interface will display the remaining amount in MANA needed to complete the transaction. At checkout, users can combine Credits with standard payment methods to finalize their purchase. Credit balances and expiration timelines are visible both in the Explorer rewards panel and the Marketplace navigation bar next to the user's profile.

Decentraland Introduces Marketplace Credits

Approach to Community and Creator Support

This initiative is part of a measured approach by the Decentraland Foundation to increase platform engagement without disrupting the existing marketplace dynamics. Marketplace Credits are limited to primary sales and distributed over a short period, providing a controlled test of how rewards can influence user behavior and platform growth.

According to Decentraland Foundation Executive Director Yemel Jardi, this program is an early step in a broader strategy aimed at reinforcing the creator ecosystem and encouraging deeper involvement from the community. The focus is on rewarding regular participation and encouraging creative expression through avatar customization, rather than on offering high-stakes incentives.

Benefits for Creators and Users

Creators benefit directly from the Credits system, as all purchases made with Credits apply only to primary sales. This mechanism increases the visibility of new Wearables and Emotes, offering creators a better chance to showcase their work. The consistent flow of Credits into the hands of users may also lead to a rise in secondary market activity as overall engagement in the Marketplace increases.

For users, the program provides a cost-free opportunity to enhance their digital identity. Whether they are new to Decentraland or long-time participants, users can explore a range of customization options without incurring financial cost. With metaverse events like Decentraland Prom and the Pride PJ Party approaching, the timing encourages users to update their avatars and participate in upcoming activities.

Decentraland Introduces Marketplace Credits

Looking Ahead

Following the end of the beta period on July 13, the program will be paused for evaluation. Feedback collected during the trial phase will help determine the future direction of Marketplace Credits and similar initiatives. The current rollout represents a cautious but purposeful step toward increasing platform activity and creator support through small-scale, consistent rewards. By integrating Marketplace Credits into its web3 platform, Decentraland is experimenting with new ways to build community, promote creativity, and sustain an active user base.