A new DappRadar report highlights a significant surge in play-to-earn (P2E) gaming, with a sharp increase in daily unique active wallets (dUAW) in 2024.
Over the past 12 months, dUAW grew by 421%, reaching an all-time high of 7.4 million by the end of 2024. DappRadar analysts presented this metric in their annual blockchain gaming report, which explores key industry trends in what is described as a pivotal year for the sector.
Blockchain Gaming Thrives Despite Web3 Challenges
According to DappRadar, the blockchain gaming sector has sustained steady growth, even as the broader Web3 market faced bearish conditions. This expansion is driven by a rising number of players and rapid technological advancements.
“2024 was a transformative year for blockchain gaming, marking a shift toward mainstream adoption,” the report states.
“The year witnessed a remarkable increase in users, the launch of groundbreaking technologies, and significant advancements in engaging users beyond the Web3 space.”
Throughout the year, nearly 6 billion on-chain gaming transactions were recorded, while DappRadar added over 1,500 new blockchain-based games to its directory. Some of the leading on-chain titles include Pixels and World of Dypians, which integrate NFTs and metaverse mechanics.
Additionally, Immutable, a blockchain gaming platform, surpassed Ethereum’s NFT trading volume by over $300 million.
What’s Driving the Boom in Blockchain Gaming?
The report outlines several key factors behind the rapid growth of blockchain gaming:
Rising cryptocurrency valuations – especially BTC, which, with a market capitalization of $4 trillion, attracted new users from traditional gaming circles.Telegram & Hamster Kombat – Hamster Kombat alone generated over $300 million within months of launch, contributing to blockchain gaming expansion.The Open Network (TON) – played a major role in dUAW growth by hosting multiple decentralized applications (dApps) for a broad audience.Major gaming companies adopting blockchain – Ubisoft, Sony, and Sega joined the blockchain gaming ecosystem in 2024, triggering a domino effect across the industry.
Despite the rapid adoption, the report also highlights a decline in venture capital (VC) funding for blockchain gaming. 2024 marked the lowest investment year since 2020, despite significant funding rounds from The Sandbox and Andreessen Horowitz.
The Future of Blockchain Gaming: Challenges & Opportunities
Looking ahead, the report predicts continued blockchain gaming adoption in 2025, particularly fueled by the rise of the metaverse and digital collectibles. The first two quarters of the year are expected to see additional momentum.
AI Reshaping the Gaming Industry Amid Workforce Concerns
As generative artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, it is increasingly being integrated into game development, with major industry players relying on AI-driven solutions. However, this trend has also sparked concerns about job security.
🔹 Over 50% of surveyed developers reported that their companies use AI in game design.
🔹 36% of industry employees actively use AI tools for productivity and efficiency.
🔹 30% of respondents believe AI will negatively impact the sector.
Key concerns surrounding AI in gaming
Increased energy consumptionIntellectual property (IP) theft risksMass layoffs across the gaming industry
While gaming companies view AI as a cost-cutting and time-saving tool, employees worry that it could lead to large-scale job losses. This trend has already affected major gaming firms, with Sony and Electronic Arts (EA) laying off over 1,500 employees in 2024.
EA CEO Andrew Wilson acknowledged the ongoing layoffs but stated that they are part of the industry’s growing pains and believes that AI will ultimately create new job opportunities as it becomes a mainstream tool in game development.
Conclusion: Blockchain Gaming on the Rise, but Challenges Remain
While blockchain gaming is experiencing record-breaking growth, the industry still faces hurdles—ranging from regulatory uncertainties and investment slowdowns to the rapid adoption of AI, which is reshaping game development. However, new innovations and increasing Web3 adoption are expected to drive the sector forward, offering exciting opportunities for players and developers alike.
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