Crypto and NFT Games Are Still Launching on Steam Despite Ongoing Ban
Despite Steam's ban on blockchain-based games with cryptocurrency or NFT (Non-Fungible Token) elements, developers have been finding ways to launch such games on the platform, either by working within the restrictions or finding workarounds.
Steam initially introduced these restrictions in 2021, explicitly prohibiting games that involve blockchain technology, cryptocurrencies, or NFTs. While some game developers have chosen to create versions of their games without crypto or NFT elements for the Steam platform, others have taken different approaches.
One approach is to redirect players to third-party websites where they can buy NFTs or cryptocurrencies related to the game. Another approach is to require players to connect crypto wallets to access certain in-game features.
The use of cryptocurrencies and NFTs in video games has been a divisive and controversial topic, with varying degrees of acceptance among game studios and players. Some platforms, like Fortnite publisher Epic Games and Google's Play Store, have taken a more open approach to blockchain games, albeit with some regulations and disclaimers.
In contrast, platforms like Steam and Apple's iOS App Store have imposed restrictions that make it challenging for developers to integrate NFTs into their games. However, some developers are finding ways to navigate these limitations.
For example, games like Champions Ascension and The Bornless have sold NFTs to their fans and were added to Steam. While these games won't directly exchange NFTs or cryptocurrencies on the platform to comply with Steam's Terms of Service, players can still acquire NFT items from an external website and use them in the game on Steam. This approach allows players to interact with NFTs but keeps the transactions outside of Steam's ecosystem, effectively serving as a workaround to the ban.
The issue of crypto and NFT integration in gaming remains a complex and evolving one, with different platforms and developers adopting varying strategies and policies.
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