The team behind MetalCore, a PC-based multi-element shooter, has announced it will switch from the Immutable blockchain to Solana. Currently available in open beta, MetalCore’s transition is set to coincide with the launch of its second season, "Gearbreakers," in November, allowing players to migrate all their assets to the Solana blockchain.

MetalCore Leaves Immutable Blockchain for Solana

More About MetalCore

MetalCore is a sci-fi MMO that features epic mech and PvPvE battles, deep crafting mechanics, and a player-driven economy. Set on the planet Kerberos, players must survive as foot soldiers, climb the ranks, and grow their arsenal of mechs and war machines. Notably, the crypto game is the first title built directly on the Immutable zkEVM.

MetalCore has won accolades such as the Global Blockchain Show’s Best Blockchain Game of the Year and our GAM3 2022 Award for Best Shooter Game. The game’s innovative “scanning” system allows players to craft new weapons and vehicles from blueprints obtained from fallen enemies, adding a unique layer to its gameplay.

Immutable to Polygon to Solana

The decision to move to Solana marks the latest in a series of blockchain platform shifts for MetalCore. Initially launched with NFTs on Ethereum in July 2022, MetalCore’s journey highlights the rapidly evolving landscape of blockchain technology in the gaming industry. MetalCore originally deployed on Immutable, pivoted to Polygon, and then returned to Immutable in March 2023 to leverage Immutable’s zkEVM technology.

This repeated transition reflects the game’s commitment to seeking platforms that align with its growth objectives and the needs of its players. However, the shift to Solana, a non-Ethereum-native blockchain, surprised some given that MetalCore has previously preferred Ethereum-compatible blockchains. Solana’s ability to now support Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility, despite lacking native support for Ethereum assets, has enabled this change.

MetalCore Key Art 1

Benefits of GameShift Technology

A key reason for MetalCore’s switch to Solana lies in the platform’s recently introduced GameShift technology, developed by Solana Labs. GameShift offers several benefits designed to streamline the user experience for both web2 and web3 players, reducing common friction points in blockchain gaming. By integrating an in-app payment system and a storefront, GameShift simplifies the purchase and management of digital assets. Studio369, the development studio behind MetalCore, sees this as a significant enhancement for its player base.

Studio369’s CEO Matt Candler expressed optimism about the transition, stating, “We’re thrilled to bring MetalCore to Solana, leveraging its infrastructure to enhance the on-chain user experience and unlock Solana’s unique advantages.” He added that Studio369 aims to provide the best infrastructure possible for MetalCore’s community, aligning the platform’s capabilities with the needs of a fast-paced, user-driven gaming experience.

MetalCore Key Art 2

Implications for Players

With the switch to Solana, MetalCore players will gain access to Solana’s unique advantages, including faster transaction times and reduced costs associated with in-game purchases. Additionally, the Gearbreakers season in November will provide a seamless migration path for players to transfer their assets to the new blockchain.

MetalCore’s move to Solana also points to a larger trend in the gaming industry where blockchain platforms are increasingly chosen based on their user-centric features rather than brand compatibility. As gaming technology evolves, more developers may prioritize platforms like Solana that offer an enhanced user experience over traditional Ethereum-compatible options.

Source: blockchaingamer.biz