Unity unleashes decentralization for Web3 gaming

Unity, the world's leading platform for creating and growing real-time 3D (RT3D) content, has added a new "Decentralization" category page to its asset store to support developers interested in decentralization technology in gaming. The new page offers 13 different blockchain-based software developer kits (SDKs) including Algorand, Aptos, Dapper Labs’ Flow blockchain, Immutable X, MetaMask, Solana, and Tezos, among others. Unity's decentralized storefront aims to provide game developers with resources to connect with Web3 gaming, a crypto sector that has been gaining traction in recent years.

The decentralization storefront in the Unity Asset Store will allow developers to incorporate blockchain technologies such as NFTs and the metaverse to enhance gameplay experiences. It will also help developers find verified solutions to manage digital assets, set up smart contracts, build on blockchain networks, and more. Decentralization in gaming typically refers to models of ownership that allow players to create, earn, or obtain in-game resources that they can then sell or trade.

Web3 game developers have been eagerly waiting for Unity to enter the business with its own tools. Joyride, a Web3 gaming platform, raised $14 million in March 2022 to support developers in building their games on Unity. Meanwhile, blockchain infrastructure company ChainSafe raised almost $19 million the following October, focusing on helping developers connect their games to Unity.

The move into the Web3 space has been welcomed by many in the industry. MetaMask, one of the SDKs listed on the decentralized storefront, said in a tweet that "Our listing in Unity will bring Web3 values to the gaming industry. It's a whole new era for gaming devs."

Poised to offer an opportunity for game developers to build more immersive gaming experiences and tap into the growing Web3 gaming market, Unity's move into the Web3 space could significantly impact the gaming industry as it provides developers with the resources to create more engaging and decentralized gaming experiences.