Jungle, a gaming studio previously active in the web3 space, has officially announced that it will no longer be developing in the crypto gaming sector. The team shared the update following several months of limited communication, stating that it will now focus entirely on developing its game as a mobile free-to-play (F2P) title. According to the studio, this decision was based on a pragmatic assessment of what would be best for the long-term success of the project.

About Jungle and FTW

Jungle is the gaming studio behind FTW "For The Win" described as an action-packed battle royale experience, combined with fast-paced FPS gameplay and exciting gacha rewards. Users get to compete against players worldwide in high-stakes multiplayer battles, and unlock exclusive free rewards and surprises after every match. FTW offers dynamic multiplayer battles, quick matches, and countless opportunities to show off shooting skills. With unique heroes, randomized loadouts, and thrilling gacha surprises, this is a unique mobile FPS experience.

Jungle Pivots to Web2 Leaving Crypto Gaming

Expectations and Development Challenges

In messages shared by João, the founder of Jungle, he reflected on how the dynamic with the community had become increasingly difficult. Over time, as the project showed limited visible progress, the expectations and demands from community members—many of whom had contributed financially—began to intensify. João described the experience as one that left the team feeling "jaded," pointing to the pressure that comes with building in public and maintaining transparency throughout the development process.

Jungle Pivots to Web2 Leaving Crypto Gaming

Funding History and Pivot to F2P Model

Jungle initially attracted significant attention in March 2023 when it raised $6 million to fund the development of a mobile extraction shooter. The investment round was led by BITKRAFT and marked a notable milestone for the studio. Much of the funding was reportedly used to acquire intellectual property that had been underutilized, which later became foundational to the game's direction.

As development progressed, Jungle pivoted from its original concept and began shaping the title into a battle royale and hero-shooter hybrid. The final version of the game, titled For the Win, was launched in 2024 and has since accumulated over 500,000 downloads on the PlayStore, indicating moderate success within the mobile gaming market.

As part of its original web3 strategy, Jungle released an NFT collection in the fourth quarter of 2024. However, the collection ultimately did not deliver any real utility for holders. This outcome further reflected the difficulties associated with combining blockchain technology and gaming in a way that sustains long-term engagement and value.

Jungle Pivots to Web2 Leaving Crypto Gaming

Implications for Web3 Gaming Space

Jungle’s decision to move away from web3 is indicative of broader challenges facing blockchain-based gaming initiatives. The case illustrates how developer teams must balance community involvement, technical complexity, and market demands, particularly when working within emerging technological frameworks. While the mobile F2P market is highly competitive, Jungle’s pivot suggests a belief that it offers a more stable path forward than continued experimentation in web3.

As Jungle transitions to focus solely on mobile gaming, its experience offers insights into the opportunities and limitations of web3 in game development. The situation may prompt other studios to re-evaluate their own strategies as the industry continues to evolve.

Source: Raiden, Gaming Chronicles