Ubisoft, one of the most well-known video game developers in the industry, has just released a gameplay trailer of its first-ever blockchain-based game, Champion Tactics: Grimoria. This move has sparked excitement as many are hoping this could be the breakthrough that leads to the first generation of true AAA games on the blockchain. The AAA designation is given to the biggest hit games developed by top studios, a label that no blockchain game has been able to achieve yet. The majority of Web3 games face challenges such as low-quality gameplay experiences and scalability issues that hinder them from reaching AAA status.
One major issue with Web3 games is the lack of scalability to support a large number of players simultaneously logging into a game. Blockchains like Ethereum, commonly used for blockchain games, are known to face network congestion issues which can result in high gas fees. Additionally, the lack of interoperability across blockchains restricts players from transferring their assets and profiles from one platform to another, limiting the benefits of decentralized digital assets. However, Ubisoft’s entry into the blockchain space with Champion Tactics: Grimoria suggests a possible solution to these problems.
Champion Tactics: Grimoria is a player-versus-player tactical RPG game with high-end graphics and realistic animations that give it the look and feel associated with AAA games. The gameplay centers around figurine-like characters that are blockchain-based assets owned by players. Players must choose three champions with unique characteristics and abilities to battle against opponents in turn-based matches. The game is marketed as more skills-based rather than chance-based, which could appeal to gamers looking for a strategic challenge combined with digital ownership benefits.
Ubisoft has chosen to launch Champion Tactics: Grimoria on a dedicated gaming blockchain called Oasys, known for its scalability solutions. Oasys utilizes a unique blockchain architecture with a Layer-1 network for settling transactions and security, and a Layer-2 network for scaling individual games efficiently. Through the use of Optimistic Rollups, Oasys aims to enhance scalability and address concerns about interoperability by partnering with LayerZero, a protocol that enables different blockchains to communicate with each other seamlessly.
While some video game publishers have expressed interest in blockchain technology, others have been more hesitant to embrace it. Ubisoft’s decision to move forward with its first Web3 game despite challenges and skepticism from some critics could pave the way for more AAA developers to explore the potential of blockchain in gaming. If Ubisoft can successfully demonstrate the benefits of digital ownership through Champion Tactics: Grimoria, it may encourage other top-tier developers to follow suit and create a new generation of blockchain-based AAA games. This initiative could mark a significant turning point for the future of blockchain in the gaming industry.
