Sega, the renowned games publisher, is diving back into the world of blockchain gaming with an upcoming project based on the popular Three Kingdoms digital card series. Despite previously dismissing play-to-earn games as “boring,” Sega is partnering with double jump.tokyo to develop this new game, aiming to break through the negative stigma surrounding NFTs and provide an engaging experience.
In a recent interview with Japanese outlet Dengeki Online, Sega’s Co-COO Shuji Utsumi discussed the company’s foray into blockchain gaming. The partnership with double jump.tokyo, known for their collaborations with Square Enix and Tezuka Osamu, creators of Astro Boy, was announced in 2021. However, the announcement faced backlash from fans concerned about the environmental impact of blockchain technology, which seemed contradictory to the core message of Sonic The Hedgehog.
Acknowledging the challenges of user adoption, Hironobu Ueno, CEO of double jump.tokyo, admitted that users are finding it difficult to adapt to blockchain technology. Despite this, both Sega and double jump.tokyo remain optimistic about the potential of NFTs and aim to create a compelling experience for players.
Utsumi explained that the integration of blockchain technology in the game aims to simulate the feeling of owning a card. However, due to the low adoption rate of NFTs, in-game purchases will be optional, and the game will follow a free-to-play model. Sega sees this partnership as an opportunity to explore new business models and learn from the experience.
In July, Utsumi hinted at the project, stating that Sega plans to allow external partners to use its lesser-known Three Kingdoms and Virtua Fighter characters for non-fungible tokens. However, he expressed skepticism about NFT games, describing play-to-earn games as “boring” and questioning their purpose if they lack fun.
While Sega’s stance on blockchain gaming has been somewhat inconsistent, the company seems to be embracing the technology once again, at least in Asian regions where Battle of Three Kingdoms—Sangokushi Taisen is set to release. Sega had previously mentioned the development of “super game” projects featuring the return of classic properties like Jet Set Radio and Crazy Taxi in a Web 3.0 experience, but no updates have been provided since 2022.
Overall, Sega’s upcoming blockchain game based on the Three Kingdoms card series represents the company’s continued exploration of new gaming experiences and business models. Despite the challenges of NFT adoption, Sega and double jump.tokyo are determined to create an engaging game that appeals to players while incorporating blockchain technology.
Source: DOTESPORTS
