Play-to-earn gaming, or in-game rewards programs, are video games that offer players the opportunity to earn rewards for their play. These rewards can come in the form of real-world items such as gift cards or discounts on future purchases, or they can be in-game bonuses such as experience points or virtual currency.

There are a variety of games that offer in-game rewards, but some of the most popular genres include first-person shooters, battle royale games, and mobile games. So if you’re looking for a new game to play and want to earn some rewards while you do it, there’s sure to be something out there for you!

Here’s a crash course in everything you need to know to get started earning in-game rewards like NFTs.

What is play-to-earn gaming?

In a play-to-earn model, players earn rewards in-game for playing. The rewards can come in the form of cash prizes, gift cards, or even cryptocurrency. Generally speaking, the more you play, the more rewards you’ll be able to earn.

Some platforms will require you to meet certain milestones in order to be eligible for rewards. For example, you might need to play a certain number of hours or achieve a high score. Other platforms will simply give out rewards randomly to players who are active on the platform.

It’s important to note that play-to-earn models can vary from game-to-game – not all games offer rewards to earn or to buy and while some rewards can come in the form of NFTs, most offer tokens that you can redeem for items like NFTs. 

In order to maximize your chances of earning rewards, make sure you play games that are offered by reputable companies. Also, be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully before signing up and potentially getting stuck in a game that has an entrance fee. That way, you’ll know what you’re getting into and won’t be disappointed later on.

What are some common terms in play-to-earn gaming?

When you’re getting started in play-to-earn gaming, it’s important to be familiar with some of the most common terms. Here are a few to get you started:

NFTs: Stands for “non-fungible tokens”; these are digital assets that are unique and cannot be replicated. They are often used in play-to-earn gaming to represent rewards or in-game items.

PEEPS: Players who are playing for rewards.

PTEGs: Platforms that offer play-to-earn gaming.

Faucets: A platform or website that gives out free NFTs to players.

Which companies offer play-to-earn gaming?

There are a few different companies that offer play-to-earn gaming from Zynga to even Amazon. 

Major retailers like GameStop are also pivoting to the game-development world. In fact, in 2021, the retailer made some big moves to deepen their involvement in crypto and the NFT biz. GameStop also created a cryptocurrency partnerships division and are building their own NFT marketplace. They even registered a token on Ethereum. 

If you want to specifically earn NFTs in-game right now,  then you’ll want to check out these leaders in play to earn gaming that have games hosted on the blockchain. Some of the more popular ones at the moment include: 

  • CryptoKitties – if you’re the kind of gamer that likes to collect and trade cats, this is the game for you. The Ethereum-based blockchain game has some active players boasting rewards worth $100+ a day. There are in-game opportunities to buy a CryptoKitty NFT or, breed two kitties together to get one. You can also use breeding to earn rare rewards.
  • Axie Infinity – Axie is at the center of the play-to-earn model. Gamers earn “Axies” – aka “AXS” tokens –  for helping to decide the future of the game; they can also earn AXS or unique NFTs for other in-game achievements.
  • Decentraland – the virtual world of Decentraland is running on the Ethereum blockchain where users have the chance to design and play mini-games to win rewards like NFTs and even wearables. Some games have an entrance fee, but there are free-to-enter games with rewards, as well… 

These games all have their own unique economies and rewards systems.

What are some of the benefits of play to earn gaming?

There are a number of benefits to play-to-earn gaming, including:

  • Increased engagement with the game – Players who can earn rewards for their play tend to be more engaged and invested in the game. This leads to more fun and rewarding gameplay!
  • Improved skills – Playing games that offer in-game rewards can help improve your skills in a variety of ways. This can be helpful whether you’re trying to get better at your favorite game or looking to start playing more competitively.
  • Opportunity to earn real-world rewards – One of the best things about play-to-earn gaming is that it offers the opportunity to earn real-world rewards for your play. This can come in the form of discounts on future purchases, gift cards, or even cash!
  • Increased motivation – Finally, play-to-earn gaming can help increase your motivation to play. 

Why just play for enjoyment when you can also work towards earning rewards?

How to start playing and earning NFTs

Getting started with play-to-earn gaming is easy! Just look for a game that offers in-game rewards and create an account. Once you’re registered, start playing and start earning rewards! It’s as simple as that!

If you have a specific kind of reward you’re looking to earn, and want to focus on games that have free or low entrance fees, check out some of the major players like Axie Infinity or Decentraland first; companies like this are very popular because they are beginner-friendly.

Now what?

It’s important to keep in mind that not all play-to-earn games are equal. Some games might have better rewards, while others might be more fun to play. Do your research before you start playing, and make sure the game is right for you! Play-to-earn gaming is definitely worth checking out if you like free stuff – especially NFTs. 

Thanks for reading and we hope your next gaming session is profitable!