Sega Explores Blockchain Gaming with NFT-Based Trading Card Game

Gaming giant Sega is making strides into the blockchain gaming arena by co-developing a trading card NFT game based on its Sangokushi Taisen franchise. This move comes amidst a growing trend of established gaming corporations exploring blockchain technology and its potential impact on the gaming industry.

Sega and Blockchain

Sega’s Co-COO, Shuji Utsumi, has shared optimistic sentiments regarding blockchain gaming, marking a distinct shift from his previous stance, where he found play-to-earn games lacking in excitement. 

He now acknowledges that blockchain gaming could introduce novel elements such as asset ownership and potential earnings for players – aspects that were not prevalent in traditional gaming scenarios. 

Sega’s venture into blockchain gaming represents a broader strategic initiative to adapt to emerging technologies and explore new business models.

Collaboration with Double Jump

In an ambitious move, Sega has licensed its Sangokushi Taisen card game’s IP to blockchain firm Double Jump. The collaboration aims to develop a new trading card game titled Battle of Three Kingdoms, featuring NFT cards inspired by the original 2005 game. 

This venture primarily targets Asia’s gaming market and aims to rejuvenate the original game’s IP while maintaining necessary protections. 

The game will launch with over 100 different cards and is expected to receive continuous support through patches and updates post-launch, demonstrating a long-term commitment to the project.

Overcoming Challenges

A significant hurdle identified by Utsumi is the integration of crypto wallets, which are crucial for managing assets like NFTs in blockchain games. Crypto wallets necessitate users to undertake several steps to make purchases or list items for sale, which could deter potential players. 

Utsumi emphasizes the importance of simplifying this process to encourage more players to engage with the game. The challenge of crypto wallet integration reflects a broader issue within the blockchain gaming sphere, where user-friendliness and accessibility are paramount for broader adoption.

A Win-Win Scenario

Utsumi envisions the collaboration with Double Jump as a “win-win” scenario. Sega will provide game assets for the development of Battle of Three Kingdoms, and in return, will gain valuable insights into the workings of blockchain game development. This collaborative effort facilitates Sega’s entry into blockchain gaming and provides an opportunity for learning and growth in this emerging field.

Sega’s cautious yet optimistic venture into blockchain gaming marks a significant step in recognizing the potential of blockchain technology within the gaming industry. While challenges like crypto wallet integration remain, the collaborative effort with Double Jump showcases a promising pathway for established gaming corporations to explore and integrate blockchain technology, thereby potentially ushering in a new era of gaming experiences.