Our GAM3 Awards, a standout event in web3 gaming, is set for a grand return this December 2023. Excitingly, our panel of judges includes familiar figures from 2022 and new voices spanning various corners of web3 gaming. Among the noteworthy additions are experts from web3 gaming venture capital firms, blockchain and ecosystem specialists, infrastructure partners, and content creators. We're also privileged to have esteemed leaders from the gaming realm and tech giants like Amazon and Google joining our distinguished jury lineup.

We are proud to introduce one of our jury members Kousei Sho. Kousei is the Co-founder and Head of Global Business Development at Pacific Meta, which provides global Web3 games with comprehensive marketing solutions in the Japanese market and vice verse.

1. What is the most enjoyable part of your role? 

“The exciting part of my role is to bring groundbreaking, high-quality Web3 games from Japan and broader Asia to the global market and vice verse, to create more new experiences and give people a new image of Web3 games. I hold the conviction that games are a critical entry point for the broader public's interaction with Web3 technologies., and it is my contention that widespread adoption of Web3 games will catalyze the societal integration of blockchain technology, heralding a new era of interactive digital engagement and asset ownership.”

2. How do you see the progress made in web3 gaming since last year?

“This past year has been marked by a significant entry of major gaming corporations, particularly from Japan and Korea, into the Web3 space. The development of Web3 games utilizing popular IPs has notably increased visibility and awareness of the sector among traditional gamers. Leveraging well-known franchises has given Web3 games a much-needed boost in credibility and legitimacy, signaling to the market that Web3 gaming is not just a niche pursuit but a burgeoning field with the potential for mainstream appeal.”

3. What is the most valuable addition web3 brings into gaming, from your perspective, if any?

“Web3 has introduced novel user experiences in gaming, with two notable additions. 

First, the act of earning through gameplay is designed to be an enjoyable experience in itself, which is a significant departure from traditional gaming models. This isn't just about financial gain, but it's about adding a layer of reward and motivation that complements the intrinsic fun of gaming.

Second, token ownership has created a new paradigm of community and co-creation. Players are not merely consumers but become stakeholders in the game's ecosystem. As token holders, they have a vested interest in the governance and success of the game, which aligns their interests with those of the developers. This shared sense of ownership and collaboration is a unique aspect of Web3 gaming that fosters a deeper connection between players and the game's evolution, potentially leading to more vibrant and sustainable game communities.”

4. What is your outlook on 2024 and beyond for web3 gaming?

“2024 could be pivotal for the proliferation of Web3 gaming, especially with major Japanese and Korean gaming companies starting to officially launch their Web3 titles. If these games can resonate with existing gamers and attract a broader audience, it may not only solidify the position of Web3 games in the market but could also act as a catalyst for the wider gaming industry to accelerate their adoption of Web3 technologies.”

The return of our GAM3 Awards in 2023 promises to be a celebration of the web3 gaming industry's growth and innovation. With industry figures like Kousei Sho on the jury, the event is set to recognize excellence in the ever-evolving world of web3 gaming.