In our previous article, we introduced Satlantis, an independent Minecraft server that allowed players to earn Bitcoin through play-to-earn functionalities. However, we also noted that Mojang, the developer of Minecraft, had banned NFTs and it was unclear how this integration would be affected by the ban. Unfortunately, it seems that Mojang has finally stepped in and asked Satlantis to remove the play-to-earn features.
According to a Discord post by Satlantis founder David Dineno, the server has accepted Mojang’s request and removed the feature. Dineno expressed his annoyance with the situation, stating that the play-to-earn model was working well and that it was a shame to see it go. He criticized Mojang, referring to them as “dinosaurs at some conglomerate” who are stifling innovation.
Despite this setback, the Satlantis community remains resilient. They are actively exploring alternative platforms that encourage innovation instead of suppressing it. The community has expressed its disappointment with Mojang and Microsoft (who owns Mojang) through social media platforms, with some users even expressing their dissatisfaction with Microsoft.
Dineno advised players to withdraw their earned Bitcoin, assuring them that the process would be diligently carried out. The Satlantis developers have pledged to honor all in-game assets, including the Bitcoin earned, prize pools, and other transferable data.
While Satlantis will continue to operate without the play-to-earn features, the team is already looking toward the future. They aim to transition seamlessly to the next gaming frontier and find new ways to incorporate blockchain technology.
This situation with Satlantis highlights the potential of blockchain in the eSports industry. Nicolas Gilot, co-CEO and co-founder of blockchain-based online gaming hub Ultra Arena, believes that eSports are struggling to generate profits and that a change of direction is needed. He suggests that blockchain can act as the glue that binds all parties together, facilitating the distribution of prizes and earnings and giving confidence to publishers, brands, and influencers to get involved at all levels.
Ultra Arena aims to help more gamers attract sponsors and move up the ranks by using blockchain technology. Gilot believes that by opening up the existing eSports model to more stakeholders, including grassroots competitive players, smaller brands, and startup teams, the industry can achieve mutual growth and sustainable profitability.
In other gaming news, Apple has unveiled its new iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models, which are set to be powerful gaming devices. The iPhone 15 Pro, in particular, boasts impressive features such as hardware-accelerated ray tracing and the ability to run demanding game titles directly on the device. This opens up possibilities for Web3 game developers to create mobile games with better graphics and more comprehensive gameplay.
However, Apple’s strict rules for NFT apps and restrictions on crypto payments may pose challenges for Web3 gaming companies. Developers will need to find innovative ways to navigate these limitations and fully utilize the device’s capabilities.
Additionally, Formula, the organization behind Formula 1 racing, is making a second attempt at Web3 gaming with Formula E: High Voltage. Developed by Animoca Brands, the game focuses on Formula E, a motorsport championship featuring fully electric-powered race cars. Players take on the role of a team principal and make strategic decisions to lead their Formula E team to victory.
Overall, despite the setback for Satlantis, the gaming industry continues to explore the potential of blockchain technology. Whether it’s through play-to-earn models, enhanced eSports experiences, or improved mobile gaming, blockchain has the potential to revolutionize the gaming industry and create new opportunities for players, developers, and stakeholders alike.
