Metaverse games are more than just “online games but with crypto.” These platforms go beyond just gaming; they offer a space where players can create, socialize, and engage in the digital economy. Metaverse games aren’t necessarily tied to cryptocurrency but are defined by their expansive, interactive universes and the immersive experiences that they can provide outside of the physical world.
In this article, I will talk about the top 10 crypto metaverse games as well as provide an overview of metaverse games and what you need to start playing them.
What Are Metaverse Games? An Overview
Crypto metaverse games are gaming platforms that incorporate metaverse elements, allowing players to immerse themselves in virtual universes. These games blend metaverse aspects with core gameplay and functionality.
Contrary to popular belief, the best metaverse games are not exclusively tied to cryptocurrencies. For a game to qualify as a metaverse game, it merely needs to offer a distinct, dedicated universe where players can converge and enjoy their gaming experiences.
Metaverse games owe their popularity due to their ability to engineer an escape from reality, transporting players to various settings such as post-apocalyptic worlds, medieval realms, or barren landscapes ripe for reconstruction. The unique storylines woven into these games are another significant draw.
Top Virtual World Games for 2024
Want to check out what metaverse gaming is all about, or looking for a new game to play? Here are the best metaverse games, in no particular order.
- Axie Infinity, a blockchain metaverse gaming trailblazer with appealing rewards
- The Sandbox, a metaverse gaming platform combined with interactive experiences
- Decentraland, a world where you can purchase land and construct an empire
- My Neighbour Alice, a vast multiplayer builder game
- Roblox, a popular hangout for young gamers
- Illuvium, a metaverse gaming giant set in space
- Revomon, a place where you can capture monsters and earn money
- Alien Worlds, a cross-chain crypto metaverse game
- Meta Masters Guild, a metaverse game featuring mobile-focused games and P2E rewards
- Chain of Alliance, an on-chain role-playing and strategy metaverse game
Top 10 Metaverse Games, Examined
Let’s take a closer look at the games mentioned above. Which one caught your attention?
Axie Infinity: Blockchain Metaverse Gaming Pioneer with Enticing Rewards
Axie Infinity is known as one of the earliest and most notable blockchain gaming platforms. Established in 2018 by Vietnamese tech startup Sky Mavis, it has since become one of the largest metaverse video games globally.
Built on the Ethereum blockchain, Axie Infinity invites players into an engaging world. The play-to-earn (P2E) game includes unique creatures called Axies, which can be bred, collected, and traded as NFTs. They can be bought and sold on the game’s marketplace, with the platform’s native AXS token used for transactions.
Each Axie can be tailored to a user’s liking, varying in abilities and makeup. Players must have at least three Axies to participate in this metaverse crypto game. The objective in Axie Infinity is straightforward: players must battle their Axies against those of other players and win. Victorious players claim their opponents’ Axies. Additionally, players can purchase land in the Axie Infinity universe and construct homes for their pets.
The Sandbox – Metaverse Gaming Combined with Interactive Experiences
The Sandbox is a decentralized virtual world that utilizes blockchain technology and NFTs and empowers players to create, own, and monetize their gaming experience.
The Sandbox offers three main products. The first is VoxEdit, which models objects and avatars in 3D. The second is the Marketplace, where users can sell their creations to others in the metaverse market. The third is the Game Maker, which lets players create 3D games without any coding.
The platform features an intuitive, user-friendly interface that enables players to design their virtual experiences using a suite of tools and resources. Users can also purchase virtual land, build on it, and monetize their creations through in-game transactions.
The Sandbox has its native cryptocurrency, $SAND, which is used for trading assets, purchasing land, and participating in the platform’s governance. With a thriving community and a growing ecosystem of user-generated content, the Sandbox is paving the way for a new era of metaverse gaming and interactive experiences.
Decentraland – Purchase Land and Build an Empire
Decentraland is a decentralized, blockchain-based virtual world where users can purchase virtual land, create content, and engage in various experiences. Users can build and develop their virtual land, creating anything from art galleries to casinos and even entire cities.
The platform uses its native cryptocurrency, MANA, for transactions within the virtual world. Users can earn MANA by creating content, hosting events, and participating in the Decentraland economy.
Decentraland also supports the creation and trading of NFTs, enabling users to own unique digital assets and trade them with other community members. With a strong focus on user-generated content and virtual space ownership, Decentraland is an exciting option for those looking to invest in and explore the metaverse.
My Neighbour Alice – an Immersive Multiplayer Builder Game
My Neighbour Alice offers a captivating experience in the metaverse gaming world, with a focus on creativity, community, and virtual land ownership. Players start their journey by owning a portion of the Lummelunda Archipelago, which they can turn into a unique space.
The game strongly focuses on creative expression, encouraging players to gather resources from the Archipelago and craft unique NFTs for their avatars and lands. Social interaction is a key component, as players showcase their creations to friends and collaborate in the game world.
My Neighbour Alice combines immersive gaming experiences with the utilization of smart contracts and non-fungible tokens (NFTs), offering a distinctive blend of game rewards and tasks that link the gaming and physical worlds. The game’s innovative design, various modes, and focus on community building make it a noteworthy contender in the realm of metaverse games, comparable to other epic games in the genre.
Roblox: The Biggest Metaverse Game in the World
If you enjoy playing games, especially so online games, you’ve most likely heard about Roblox. After all, it is one of the most popular games in the world, full of exciting mini-games and gaming experiences.
Not that many people know, however, that it can be considered a metaverse game due to its expansive and immersive virtual world where users can interact, play, and create. Additionally, it also has its own virtual currency called ROBUX, which players can use to buy in-game items and experiences. It is important to note, though, that ROBUX is a centralized currency managed by the Roblox Corporation, not a decentralized token typically found in blockchain applications.
Roblox itself is not a single game but a platform hosting a multitude of user-created games and experiences. The way it operates aligns with many concepts of the metaverse, such as virtual interaction, digital economies, and user-generated content.
Illuvium: Intergalactic Metaverse Gaming Titan
Illuvium, a role-playing game launched in 2021 and built on the Ethereum blockchain, stands out among the best metaverse games. Similarly to other top metaverse crypto games, Illuvium unleashes players to explore the virtual world, with discovery being the game’s core focus. Players must capture deity-like creatures called “Illuvials,” which are NFTs that can be used in battles against other players’ Illuvials. Victorious players have a chance to win digital assets, including ETH.
Illuvium features its own online marketplace, IlluviDEX. This decentralized exchange, governed by the Illuvium Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO), allows players to trade in-game NFTs, such as Illuvials, armor, weapons, and game skins. Illuvium NFTs can also be listed and traded on external NFT marketplaces.
Revomon: Collect Monsters and Earn Revenue
Revomon is another top metaverse crypto game seeking to lead the way in monster-collecting games. Unlike Axie Infinity, Revomon boasts immersive 3D graphics compatible with mobile devices and virtual reality headsets like Meta’s Oculus. Revomon’s gameplay appears to be inspired by Pokémon, as players hunt, collect, and battle monsters against others. However, Revomon incorporates blockchain and decentralized finance (DeFi) capabilities, enabling players to buy and trade assets such as monsters, skins, and weapons.
With its play-to-earn (P2E) model, Revomon empowers players to earn by selling assets, winning battles, or advancing through levels.
Alien Worlds: Interoperable Crypto Metaverse Adventure
Alien Worlds is an Ethereum- and Binance Smart Chain-based metaverse game set across multiple alien planets in the year 2055. In this game, humans have been compelled to flee Earth and must now adapt to alien worlds.
Alien Worlds immerses players in a post-apocalyptic outer space setting, where each world has its unique environment, land, experiences, avatars, tools, and more. Every asset in Alien Worlds is an NFT. Players can compete for resources within the metaverse and receive the Trillium (TLM) token as a reward. In addition to trading TLM, users can stake it to gain voting power in the Planet Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (Planet DAOs).
Alien Worlds’ cross-chain functionality for assets created on the platform is also quite noteworthy.
Meta Masters Guild – Metaverse Game Featuring Mobile-Focused Games and P2E Rewards
Meta Masters Guild (MMG) is at the forefront of web 3.0 gaming thanks to giving players the opportunity to earn real money through its engaging games. As the world’s first mobile-centric gaming guild, the platform already has three games lined up for launch in the coming months. Recently, the project raised $4.97 million from its presale round, where 350 million MEMAG tokens, the native cryptocurrency, were sold.
The platform has introduced a dynamic reward structure to keep players engaged in the game. MMG has “Gems,” an in-game currency that can be earned through gameplay and converted into $MEMAG tokens. These tokens can be either converted into real money or used for participating in the game’s economy. This innovative reward strategy encourages players to invest more time and effort into the game, driving the platform’s long-term growth.
MMG has developed an easy-to-use platform, eliminating technical barriers often associated with web 3.0. One of the platform’s standout features is its digital marketplace, which allows players to buy exclusive NFTs that can be used in different on-platform games.
The project plans to collaborate with several game developers to enhance its impact on the gaming industry. To achieve this, it encourages the integration of the $MEMAG token into games, creating new financial prospects and opportunities for players. Investors can read the project’s litepaper to deepen their understanding of the platform’s features.
Chain of Alliance – a Web 3.0 Metaverse Game
Chain of Alliance, a turn-based, party-builder RPG, leverages the power of Web3 to offer players a unique blend of strategy and ownership in the gaming world. Players can create and collect fully customizable and progressible character NFTs, using them in PvP games, story-based AI-battles, or custom campaigns. The game emphasizes strategic management of parties, houses, and alliances, where players’ decisions significantly impact their success.
Chain of Alliance encourages player creativity, allowing them to take on various roles to enhance the game’s offerings. Utilizing blockchain technology, the game assures true ownership of in-game assets stored on-chain for full control. Players can engage in battles against others or progress in lore-driven PvE campaigns, appealing to both blockchain enthusiasts and traditional gamers.
Notably, the game allows exporting NFTs to an EVM-based blockchain, highlighting its commitment to real ownership and player empowerment. The game’s founders, Simon and Dennis, indie developers with a strong blockchain background, envision Chain of Alliance having three core roles: Adventurers, Landlords, and Creators, each contributing uniquely to the gameplay and world-building. Chain of Alliance’s economy is driven by its native token COA, which functions as the main currency of the marketplace and a governance token, enabling players to have a say in the game’s development.
How Metaverse Video Games Operate
Metaverse games transport players to virtual spaces to dive into highly immersive games. Some games require specialized equipment or high-performance computers, while others are accessible on a mobile device.
Metaverse games function in different ways. Popular games like Axie Infinity allow users to breed and raise monsters, which can then battle other players’ monsters. Other games, like Fortnite, are more focused on battle royale-style gameplay, where players strive for survival as they outwit their surroundings. Some games even let players compete against computer-generated opponents.
The unifying element across metaverse games is the metaverse itself, where players come together in an immersive virtual world to compete for various prizes, ranging from in-game characters to actual cryptocurrencies.
Many metaverse games also utilize NFTs, which represent ownership of in-game assets and enable players to establish a presence within specific metaverse niches.
The integration of NFTs offers an additional incentive for players who want to profit from the play-to-earn model. Instead of merely owning game skins with in-game value, players can convert these skins into NFTs and sell them for earnings.
You may also like our list of the best P2E (play-to-earn) games to play in 2024.
What Do You Need to Play Metaverse Games?
To start with metaverse gaming, you generally need the following:
- Internet connection: A stable high-speed internet connection is essential to ensure smooth gameplay and avoid latency issues.
- Device: You ought to have a device to access the game, which could be a computer, a laptop, or a smartphone — the type depends on the game’s compatibility. Some metaverse games may require high-performance devices with advanced graphics capabilities for optimal gaming experiences.
- Game account: You’ll need to create an account on the metaverse gaming platform or website. This account will store your in-game progress, assets, and other relevant information.
- Digital wallet: Many metaverse games incorporate blockchain technology and use cryptocurrencies or tokens for in-game transactions. You’ll need a digital wallet that supports the specific currency or token used within the game — here’s the list of the best NFT wallets.
- Game-specific assets: Depending on the game, you may need to purchase or acquire certain in-game assets, such as avatars, NFTs, or virtual land, to participate fully.
- Familiarity with game mechanics: Understanding the gameplay, rules, and objectives of the metaverse game you’re playing is crucial. Take the time to learn the basics and any advanced strategies to improve your gaming experience.
- Optional – Specialized gear: Some metaverse games may require or benefit from specialized gear such as virtual reality (VR) headsets, controllers, or other accessories to enhance immersion and gameplay.
Keep in mind that specific requirements may vary depending on the metaverse game you choose to play. Always refer to the game’s official website or platform for detailed information on requirements and compatibility.
Categories of Metaverse Games
Metaverse games exhibit remarkable diversity but can generally be grouped into the following types:
Battle Royale Games
Battle royale games transport players to unique digital worlds with the goal of survival and being the last one standing. These games captivate players with their survival-oriented gameplay, enticing victors with impressive rewards.
Monster-Based Games
Monster-based games enable players to breed, battle, and own monsters, often in the form of NFTs. Players can choose to develop their monsters to increase their strength or sell them for immediate profit. Most monster-based games have NFT marketplaces for easy transactions. Alternatively, players can opt to sell their monsters on external NFT platforms like OpenSea.
Developer-Based Games
Developer-based games require players to construct structures, offering the opportunity to purchase land (as an NFT) and tools for building. Players can create any structure they desire, develop it to grow its value, and eventually sell it. Similarly to monster-based games, developer-based games rely heavily on the NFT economy.
Exploration-Based Games
Exploration-based games focus on immersing players in vast virtual worlds to discover new lands, resources, and experiences. These games often include elements of adventure and mystery, encouraging players to interact with their environments, solve puzzles, and complete quests.
Social-Based Games
Social-based games prioritize player interaction and community building. These games facilitate communication between players, collaboration on in-game projects, and participation in virtual events. Social-based games often feature hubs or spaces for players to socialize, trade, or engage in activities together.
Hybrid Metaverse Games
Hybrid metaverse games combine elements from multiple game types to create diverse, comprehensive gaming experiences. These games may incorporate aspects of battle royale, monster-based, developer-based, exploration-based, and social-based games, catering to a wide range of player interests and preferences.
Overall, metaverse games offer players an array of options to explore virtual worlds, engage with others, and personalize their experiences. The fusion of cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and immersive gameplay has transformed the gaming landscape, providing new opportunities for entertainment, socialization, and monetization.
Advantages of Engaging in Metaverse Games
Metaverse games have gained significant traction in the current tech landscape. Apart from offering players a chance to explore new dimensions, they come with numerous benefits. Here are some of the advantages:
Worldwide Connectivity
One of the most notable benefits of the metaverse is its ability to dissolve geographical barriers. In other words, a user’s physical location becomes irrelevant. The metaverse serves as a level playing field where everyone can interact equally, making it easy for users to connect with like-minded individuals.
Earning Potential
Many metaverse games incorporate assets such as NFTs and digital tokens, which players can earn by achieving in-game milestones and leveling up. These assets can be traded for real money, offering players an opportunity to profit. In 2021, players in the Philippines were reportedly making a living playing Axie Infinity, with some even leaving their day jobs to focus on earning in this metaverse game. While quitting one’s job isn’t necessary, the prospect of earning is undeniably appealing, and metaverse gaming platforms deliver in that regard.
Enhanced Social Interactions
Metaverse games facilitate more engaging social events and interactions, nurturing deeper connections that can bloom over time. Many top metaverse games even host events and feature artists, enabling fans to engage with their idols more personally and without physical limitations.
Emerging Business Opportunities
Similar to how social media created new sales opportunities for businesses, metaverse games have the potential to do the same. Instead of merely consuming content on a small screen, the metaverse offers a more immersive channel for promoting and experiencing products and services.
Advancements in Learning and Education
Metaverse games also serve as a platform for learning. Brands are already utilizing the metaverse to impart knowledge, and through gamification, this approach could become even more effective in the future.
In Conclusion
The metaverse is undeniably the future of online gaming. Numerous top metaverse crypto games have flourished by offering virtual realms for players to explore, supporting assets like NFTs, and more.
Best Metaverse Gaming Platforms: FAQ
What is the most popular metaverse?
Roblox is one of the most popular games in the world, and is naturally the most popular metaverse game, too. Launched in 2006, Roblox has grown exponentially over the years, providing a user-generated online gaming platform that allows players to create, share, and play games created by other users. While not a fully decentralized metaverse, Roblox incorporates many metaverse-like elements, making it a frontrunner in the virtual world landscape.
One of the key factors contributing to Roblox’s success is its accessibility to a wide range of age groups, with a particular focus on younger audiences. This inclusivity has fostered a massive, active community of content creators and gamers. Roblox’s virtual economy involves buying, selling, and trading in-game items with its native currency, ROBUX, adding a layer of financial engagement that fuels the metaverse experience.
Decentraland, a decentralized virtual world built on the Ethereum blockchain, is quickly becoming one of the most popular crypto-centered metaverse platforms. Launched in 2017, Decentraland allows users to purchase, build, and monetize virtual real estate and digital assets. The platform’s native token, MANA, enables transactions and serves as the backbone of the Decentraland economy.
While not as mainstream as Roblox, Decentraland has carved out a significant niche within the crypto and gaming communities. Its decentralized nature sets it apart from traditional gaming platforms, granting users true ownership of their digital assets and virtual land. This feature has attracted users interested in the intersection of gaming, virtual worlds, and blockchain technology.
What is a metaverse game?
A metaverse game is an online game that features a persistent, virtual environment where players can interact with each other, engage in various activities, and participate in an in-game economy. These games often incorporate elements of social networking, user-generated content, and decentralized ownership of digital assets using blockchain technology.
What games have a metaverse?
Several games have a metaverse, which refers to a virtual shared space where users can interact with one another, participate in activities, and create or trade digital assets. Some popular metaverse games include:
- Decentraland
- The Sandbox
- Axie Infinity
- My Neighbour Alice
- Roblox
Disclaimer: Please note that the contents of this article are not financial or investing advice. The information provided in this article is the author’s opinion only and should not be considered as offering trading or investing recommendations. We do not make any warranties about the completeness, reliability and accuracy of this information. The cryptocurrency market suffers from high volatility and occasional arbitrary movements. Any investor, trader, or regular crypto users should research multiple viewpoints and be familiar with all local regulations before committing to an investment.
