In the realm of web3 gaming, 2024 holds promise for enthusiasts eagerly awaiting a new wave of immersive experiences. Developers have been gearing up for significant releases, offering players a mix of genres, narratives, and innovative web3 integrations. Let's take a closer look at the five most anticipated web3 games set to make waves this year.

Off the Grid

Off the Grid sets itself apart as a third-person PvP/PvE shooter, featuring a 150-person battle royale and 60 hours of PvE story content. Developed by Gunzilla, the game has garnered attention for its involvement with District 9 director Neill Blomkamp and a team of seasoned talent.

The game has taken a different approach to promotion, with Gunzilla refraining from generating premature hype. Instead, they opted to showcase gameplay and narrative elements closer to the game's completion. The introduction of the Gunz wallet app for mobile users and a pre-launch drone-focused mobile game, TechnoCore, has further fueled anticipation.

Off the Grid is expected to skip beta releases, aiming for a full launch in early 2024. Although details on web3 integration, particularly NFT trading, remain vague, the game is likely to make its mark on the web3 space, provided the release is smooth.

Anticipating a decent release, Off the Grid's focus on the game itself, rather than selling NFTs to players, bodes well for its reception. With optional NFT elements, the game could appeal to a broader audience beyond the web3 community.

Illuvium

Illuvium is an open-world RPG with creature collecting and training across three distinct parts. With Illuvium Overworld, Illuvium Arena, and Illuvium Zero, the game incorporates web3 elements such as land NFTs and Illuvium tokens.

Beta releases of Illuvium Overworld and Arena have been well-received, offering players a chance to explore, gather resources, and battle Illuvial creatures. The game's unique blend of auto-chess and creature collection adds an interesting dynamic.

The Illuvium team plans beta 4 for both Arena and Overworld in Q1 2024, with a transition to a full public beta. Blockchain and economic components are yet to be implemented, promising further depth to the game.

Combining auto-chess and creature collection in a web3 setting poses risks, but Illuvium's niche appeal may attract a dedicated fanbase. Balancing monetization with competitive play will be crucial for its success.

Blocklords

Blocklords stands out as a medieval strategy game with farming, 4X kingdom battles, sandbox politics, and a player-driven economy. The game utilizes blockchain for hero character NFTs and an upcoming $LRD token.

The open beta on the Epic Games Store launched in Q3 2023, and the game has been evolving since. Blocklords plans to introduce the $LRD token, activating the blockchain aspect of its economy.

The $LRD token launch and the development of the Lordchain DAO tech are on the horizon. The game aims to appeal to a web3 audience with its unique layers of gameplay.

Blocklords may not become a mainstream hit, but its mix of strategy and progression could appeal to native web3 gamers. The inclusion of a free starting NFT hero lowers the entry barrier, making it accessible on the Epic Games Store.

MetalCore

MetalCore is a free-to-play open-world, mech-focused multiplayer shooter, combining third-person vehicle action with first-person infantry combat. Blockchain elements include a two-token system and NFTs.

Multiple alpha and beta releases have provided insights into MetalCore's PvP and PvE content. The game shifted between blockchain platforms, settling on Immutable's zkEVM chain.

An upcoming open beta is expected to offer a clearer picture of MetalCore's readiness for a full launch. Integration onto zkEVM and the launch of its two tokens are key milestones.

Positioned between Battlefield and Planetside, MetalCore's F2P model blending PvP and PvE elements could appeal to a broad audience. Success will depend on maintaining a sizable player base and addressing technical challenges.

Guild of Guardians

Guild of Guardians is a fantasy roguelite auto-battle RPG targeting mobile players. The game focuses on hero collection, progression, and guild-based gameplay, integrating blockchain elements.

Following adjustments and refocusing, Guild of Guardians underwent a regional Canadian soft launch on Android and iOS. The game aims for a global release in Q2, introducing endgame content and blockchain elements.

The team focuses on polishing and optimizing gameplay in Q1, preparing for a Q2 global launch. The introduction of raid bosses, guilds, and blockchain features is set to enhance the overall experience.

Despite initial challenges, Guild of Guardians' regional soft launch indicates a strategic approach to optimize for a global release. The shift to auto-battle aligns with market trends, broadening the game's potential audience.

Final Thoughts

The anticipation surrounding Off the Grid, Illuvium, Blocklords, MetalCore, and Guild of Guardians underscores the evolving landscape of web3 gaming. These titles represent a significant shift towards integrating blockchain technology and novel gameplay mechanics into mainstream gaming experiences.

As developers continue to explore the potential of web3, these games offer a glimpse into the future of decentralized economies, player ownership, and community-driven gameplay. With a focus on innovation and player engagement, the success of these titles could pave the way for a new era of interactive entertainment, where players are not just consumers but active participants in shaping virtual worlds.

This post was inspired by Naavik.