Studio369, the game development company behind blockchain-powered epic open-world shooter MetalCore, has announced that the crypto game will be the first title built on Immutable zkEVM to be playable on the next-generation scaling platform. "MetalCore's Closed Beta launch on Immutable zkEVM Mainnet today marks a big milestone for Studio369, as well as Immutable," said Justin Hulog, Chief Studio Officer at Immutable.

In this article, we will break down the latest news and exclusive updates to the web3 NFT game MetalCore, as well as the studio's future roadmap and expansive plans for its IP. You will also learn about their recent funding, partnerships, Closed Beta 2, and new $MCG token.

Closed Beta 2

MetalCore Closed Beta 2 is in full swing, presenting gamers with a chance to not only delve into the immersive world of web3-enabled gaming but also to earn rewards while doing so. With the launch of phase 2, MetalCore introduces a slew of exciting features and opportunities for players to engage with the community and earn valuable in-game assets.

Officially dubbed Mech Up, the second phase of the beta commenced on April 9th, 2024, and is set to continue until May 14th. However, players should note a brief hiatus from April 23rd to the 30th for a special update.

To partake in the beta, interested gamers can sign up for access via the provided link and keep an eye on MetalCore's social channels for enlistment opportunities. Additionally, holders of MetalCore Infantry NFTs gain automatic entry into the beta, ensuring widespread participation.

Play-to-Earn Marks and Tokens

One of the standout features of MetalCore's Closed Beta 2 is the introduction of "play to earn" mechanics through Marks. Participants can accumulate Marks by actively playing the game and completing various missions, which can later be redeemed for $MSG tokens, the on-chain currency within the MetalCore ecosystem.

Moreover, MetalCore entices players with a migration promotion, encouraging the transfer of MetalCore Infantry NFTs to the Immutable skEVM network. This migration not only renders NFTs playable within the MetalCore game but also makes them eligible for $MCG token rewards, claimable during the Token Generation Event (TGE) until May 14th, 2024, 3 pm PST.

The $MCG token holds multifaceted utility within the MetalCore ecosystem, serving as a staking token and facilitating the minting of items into NFTs. Additionally, players can trade $MCG for Shards, the in-game currency pivotal for progression, cosmetics, and quality-of-life enhancements. While an exact release date for $MCG remains undisclosed, the MetalCore team anticipates its launch shortly after the conclusion of Phase 2.

More About MetalCore?

MetalCore is a free-to-play open-world mech shooter featuring massive player-versus-player (PvP) and player-versus-environment (PvE) battles with deep and immersive crafting mechanics and a player-driven economy.

Matt Candler, CEO of Studio369, commented: “During our first Closed Beta period, we saw first-hand how interested people are in our game, evidenced by our top player completing over 800 missions with a total of 13,000+ kills. Now, we’re bringing even more fresh players into the MetalCore universe as more than 40% of our Day-1 users were completely new to the game.” 

The innovative 'scanning' system lets players obtain blueprints from fallen enemies, craft new weapons and vehicles, and even convert them to web3 assets for trading. With over 150 playable Mechs, Tanks, Aircraft, and Infantry units, in addition to the hybrid first-person and third-person combat, MetalCore promises endless hours of exhilarating gameplay in a vast open world. 

Justin Hulog, Chief Studio Officer at Immutable, added: "Today, we couldn't be more proud of the progress we've made together to seamlessly integrate web3 elements that elevate the gameplay and strategy. We are excited to raise the bar with MetalCore and finally show a really fun, high-quality game that players can play right now."

Closed Beta 2 Now Live

The Closed Beta will run between April 9th and 22nd, offering both returning and new players access to a swathe of new quests and in-game contracts. It also introduces the Barony system, the game’s version of guilds where users band together to share resources, fight under their unique banners, and earn diverse rewards.

MetalCore's Closed Beta 2 also introduces brand-new mechanics such as advanced customization, dynamic missions, stronger PvE bosses with bigger rewards, leveling updates, new consumables, and regional deployment.

Web3, Blockchain, NFTs

What sets MetalCore apart from its competitors is its commitment to delivering a captivating gaming experience, regardless of players' engagement with web3 elements. While blockchain integration allows for ownership of in-game assets as NFTs, players can enjoy MetalCore without any mandatory involvement in web3 mechanics or NFT purchases.

Looking ahead, Studio 369 envisions a future where web3 gaming prioritizes gameplay innovation, community engagement, and technological advancements. MetalCore's impending full launch in 2024 signifies a milestone for the studio, setting new standards for immersive gaming experiences in the web3 era.

In-Game Currency $MCG

Simultaneously, MetalCore United LTD has confirmed that MetalCore's native token, $MCG, will play a vital role in shaping the game’s future, allowing mechs, vehicles, and weapons crafted from blueprints or looted to be converted to non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and equipped and used in-game.

The token will also empower users to customize their gameplay and earn exclusive benefits and rewards—all while maintaining full agency and control over their items and upgrades. By completing in-game social quests players can earn a special in-game currency called “Marks”.

Another way to earn marks is by participating in wars between Baronies, where players can unite, battle together, and engage in collaborative resource-sharing activities, complete with social quests.

Fresh $5 Million Funding

Studio 369 recently secured a $5 million funding round supported by prominent investors like BITKRAFT, SpartanGroup, and Arrington Capital.  The latest funding round also saw participation from notable investors such as King River Digital Assets, Amber, Auros, Zeneca, Grail, Spirit Dao, LiquidX, Aggero, FatCats, Sonic Boom Ventures, Rarestone, Cypher Capital, Cogitant Ventures, EllioTrades and Citizen Capital. 

Matt expressed enthusiasm, stating: “We are excited to see that some of the most prominent companies and influencers in gaming continue to share and support our vision of MetalCore. The additional funding will help us hone and sharpen MetalCore even further to deliver the most fun, engaging, and awesome experience.”

Users who have already participated in the “Call to Arms” playtest will automatically become eligible to join the second Closed Beta, while new players and community members can sign up here, with detailed instructions on how to download and install the game published in a quick start guide.

What is Immutable zkEVM?

Immutable zkEVM, powered by Polygon, is a Zero-Knowledge proof-based scaling rollup that is fully compatible with and equivalent to the Ethereum Virtual Machine, tailored specifically to the needs of web3 gamers and game developers.

Widely considered “the Holy Grail of Ethereum scaling” the zkEVM offers enterprise-grade security, massive network effects, lower development costs, and seamless interoperability with the Ethereum ecosystem.

Justin Hulog, Chief Studio Officer at Immutable, commented: "Partnering with Studio369 was an obvious choice for us - as soon as we saw the quality of the game, coupled with the extensive credentials of Studio369, we were sold."

More About Immutable?

Immutable Games is a global leader in web3 game development and publishing, backed by a world-class team who have proven track records of bringing games to millions of players. As the gaming-focused arm of Immutable, the leading web3 gaming company, Immutable Games has pioneered the world's first blockbuster NFT trading-card game Gods Unchained and is currently building the highly anticipated mobile RPG Guild of Guardians.

Alongside its own high-quality titles, Immutable Games partners with third-party game developers to provide them with best-in-class strategy and execution expertise aimed at ensuring the success of every web3 game deployed within the Immutable ecosystem. 

Immutable Games is guided by its mission to redefine gaming for generations to come, by developing innovative and engaging experiences that empower players with true ownership, value, and creative expression.