How to Get Crypto While Playing Video Games?

Imagine turning your love for gaming into a profitable side hustle, or even a full-time gig. With millions of gamers worldwide, the industry has evolved beyond entertainment into a booming economy. In fact, the gaming industry is bigger than the music and movie industries combined. And crypto gaming is taking it to the next level. Diving into play-to-earn (P2E) games, you can earn real cryptocurrencies and NFTs simply by playing games.

To start earning, you’ll need to set up a cryptocurrency wallet to store your digital loot securely and learn the ins and outs of how these games reward players. From completing quests to participating in community events, your gaming skills can translate directly into financial gains. But you need to understand market trends and potential risks to unlock the full potential of your earnings. We will explore all of it in this article.

Understanding play-to-earn (P2E) games

You’re about to gain access to a new way to earn crypto: playing video games. Play-to-earn (P2E) games are exactly what their name suggests. By playing them, you can earn real-world assets, like cryptocurrencies and NFTs. Through blockchain technology, these games give you true ownership of in-game assets, which enables you to buy, sell, and trade them freely.

What are play-to-earn games?

In P2E games, you can take part in quests, battles, or other gameplay activities and earn tokenized assets that can be traded, sold, or exchanged for real-world currencies. Popular platforms like Axie Infinity and The Sandbox let you monetize your skills and in-game achievements.

In P2E games, you have true ownership of your in-game assets, represented as NFTs, thanks to the use of blockchain technology for transparency and security. This means you can trade or sell your assets as you wish.

The market for P2E games is expected to grow markedly, with popular examples such as Decentraland, or more recently games such as Big Time or Blood Loop, offering unique gameplay mechanics that offer financial rewards.

How blockchain powers P2E games

Blockchain technology is the backbone of P2E games. Without getting too technical here, here’s how blockchain powers these games:

• When you engage in P2E games like Axie Infinity and The Sandbox, you’re leveraging blockchain networks such as Ethereum or Solana.
• These Layer 1 blockchains provide the secure and transparent infrastructure necessary for the creation, trading, and ownership of NFTs and cryptocurrencies.
• Through various gameplay mechanics, such as completing quests, winning battles, or trading NFTs, you earn native cryptocurrencies.
• You can then convert these cryptocurrencies, either into fiat, or more likely, into other cryptocurrencies which are, in turn, converted into fiat. 

Popular platforms for earning crypto through gaming

You’re ready to start earning crypto while gaming – let’s explore the popular platforms that make it possible.

Decentraland and The Sandbox

Two platforms have stood the test of time and now stand out: Decentraland and The Sandbox.

In Decentraland, you can buy, develop, and sell virtual land using the MANA cryptocurrency. Participating in events, trading NFTs, and creating interactive experiences, you contribute to the platform’s economic ecosystem and earn real-world value.

The Sandbox, on the other hand, operates as a decentralized game creation platform where you can create, own, and monetize gaming experiences within its voxel-based metaverse.

Using the SAND token for transactions, you can design and trade voxel assets as NFTs and generate additional revenue streams through the marketplace. Sandbox also made it on our list of the best gaming crypto to invest in 2024.

Both platforms emphasize community engagement and user-generated content, and are some of the best metaverse games to play.

Axie Infinity

Axie Infinity is the OG of the best play-to-earn crypto games. Having achieved its peak in 2021, this game was so big and popular that people were literally leaving their 9 to 5 jobs in order to play Axie (no, we’re not exaggerating). Of course, times have changed, and Axie was hit hard by the subsequent bear market, but it’s managed to not just survive, but adapt and become relevant once again.

This NFT-based game lets you play, battle, collect, breed, and trade fantasy creatures called Axies, whose appearance is similar to Pokemons.

In Axie Infinity, you can earn Smooth Love Potions (SLP) by winning battles in the game’s Adventure mode or through player-versus-player (PvP) combat. These SLP tokens are tradable on various cryptocurrency exchanges, so you can convert your in-game rewards into real-world value.

Also, the game’s economy is supported by the sale of NFTs representing Axies. You need 3 Axies in order to play, and every Axie is an NFT. These NFTs can appreciate in value based on rarity and gameplay performance. 

Illuvium

Illuvium is an open-world RPG where it’s all about capturing, training, and battling unique NFT creatures called Illuvials. These Illuvials, each with varying attributes and rarity levels, can be used to earn ILV tokens through successful battles, exploration, and completing quests. You can use the ILV tokens for staking, trading, or exchanging for other cryptocurrencies.

Also, the game’s decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) model gives you a say in future game developments, which gives you the opportunity to influence the direction of the game.

With a big community and active marketplace, Illuvium offers diverse opportunities to engage in trading Illuvials and related assets.

Splinterlands

Splinterlands is a trading card game where you can compete using unique cards that represent characters and abilities, each being a tradable NFT that retains real-world value. 

The in-game currency, Dark Energy Crystals (DEC), can be earned through winning battles, participating in tournaments, and completing daily quests, and it’s tradable on various crypto exchanges.

As a player, you have the option to stake cards in battles to earn additional rewards, which makes card rarity and strategy vital aspects of gameplay.

Big Time

The newest kid on the block, Big Time is an action-packed MMORPG that’s aiming to be the WOW (World of Warcraft) of crypto games. You have classes, skills, leveling, experience, quests, parties, items, crafting, and pretty much everything else that’s typical for MMORPGs. 

Of course, you can earn valuable NFTs and the game’s native currency, BIGTIME, which can be sold for profit or invested.. The game incorporates a dynamic economy driven by player engagement, so the in-game currency and assets are valuable in secondary market transactions. Of course, the more popular the game gets, the more valuable all those assets are.

Players can also join guilds, which further boosts their earning potential through collective activities and resource sharing.

During the previous bull market when gaming was booming, there was still one thing that was missing: games that are actually good and enjoyable to play. Now, we’ve had an extra 4 years of development and innovation, and Big Time is attempting to be that Triple A game that all gamers flock to, not just crypto enthusiasts. Will it succeed? Only time will tell.

Getting started with crypto gaming

You’re ready to jump into crypto gaming, but first, you need the right tools.

Tools you need to begin

Starting with the world of crypto gaming begins with an essential tool: a crypto wallet. You’ll need one to secure and manage the digital assets you earn through gameplay. Options like MetaMask, Trust Wallet and Phantom support various blockchains, so it’s important to choose a wallet that aligns with your preferred games. 

For instance, if you’re into Ethereum-based games like Axie Infinity, MetaMask is a good choice (though you will also need Ronin for Axie Infinity specifically), while Phantom is ideal for Solana-based games. Our list of the best crypto wallets should help you pick the right one.

Before diving into crypto gaming, verify your devices meet the necessary technical specifications for peak performance. You can find these requirements on the game’s official website. If not, our list of the best laptops for remote work includes well-rounded powerhouses and even a dedicated gaming laptop, all of which should handle these games with no problems. While you’re at it, you can pair these laptops with some of the best monitors for trading to improve your experience—of course, many of these monitors are meant for gaming.

Also, some games may require you to buy digital assets, such as NFTs or in-game items, to get started. Budget accordingly for your initial investment and consider the costs of any necessary hardware upgrades.

Choosing the right game

Finding the perfect P2E game can make all the difference. With countless options available, the key is to match the game to your interests, gaming style, and financial goals. Here’s how to make the right choice:

• For Strategic Thinkers: If you enjoy games that challenge your strategy and decision-making, try Axie Infinity. It’s great for players who love competitive battles and long-term planning. By collecting and breeding Axies, you can earn tokens like Smooth Love Potion (SLP) and even trade rare Axies for significant profits.
• For Builders and Creatives: Prefer creating and designing? The Sandbox or Decentraland might be your best fit. In these virtual worlds, you can purchase land, build experiences, and sell NFTs. Developers and creative types who enjoy making interactive content can thrive here, especially as user-generated content is highly rewarded.
• For Casual Gamers: If you’re new to crypto gaming and want something easy to pick up, try Splinterlands, a blockchain-based trading card game. Its low entry cost and beginner-friendly mechanics make it an excellent starting point. You’ll earn Dark Energy Crystals (DEC) as you win battles and tournaments.
• For RPG Fans: Love open-world adventures and character progression? Illuvium and Big Time are both solid choices. RPG enthusiasts who enjoy immersive experiences, going on quests as a member of a party, and leveling will feel right at home.

Understanding in-game currencies

In-game currencies are the backbone of P2E games, and knowing how to handle them is key to maximizing your earnings. Here’s what you need to know:

• How to Acquire Tokens: Most P2E games reward you with tokens for completing tasks like quests, battles, or challenges. For example, in Axie Infinity, you earn SLP by winning battles, while in Splinterlands, you earn DEC through tournaments and ranked gameplay. Some games may also require an initial investment in NFTs or items to get started.
• How to Trade Tokens: Once you earn tokens, you can trade them on cryptocurrency exchanges. Start by transferring your tokens from the game to a compatible crypto wallet, such as MetaMask or Phantom. From there, connect your wallet to exchanges like Uniswap or Jupiter to trade your tokens for other cryptocurrencies.
• How to Cash Out Tokens: To convert your tokens into real money, trade them for a stable cryptocurrency like USDT on an exchange, then withdraw the funds to your bank account or payment service. 

Risks and challenges in crypto gaming

Crypto gaming definitely has a bright future, but you also need to be aware of the risks and challenges that come with it.

Volatility of crypto rewards

Imagine spending a lot of time and effort playing a game and earning your rewards, only to find that the hard-earned crypto rewards you’ve amassed can disappear overnight due to market whims.

This is the harsh reality of the volatility of crypto rewards in P2E games. As you immerse yourself in these games, you must understand that the value of in-game cryptocurrencies and NFTs can fluctuate wildly.

The risks are real, and here are three key factors to take into account:

1. Market Shifts: Economic instability within the game can lead to diminished asset values over time if the game loses popularity or player engagement decreases. For instance, Axie’s in-game currency, SLP, was valued at around 36 cents at its peak. However, as of December 2024, it’s worth less than a cent.
2. Lack of Understanding: Approximately 70% of gamers don’t grasp the volatility associated with crypto earnings in games, making them susceptible to losses when engaging with P2E models without adequate knowledge of market dynamics.
3. Bad Developer Decisions or Gaming Models: Sometimes, developers will come up with a bad economic model that’s just not sustainable over time. Or, alternatively, they may suddenly decide to take a game in a new direction, which ends up being the wrong call.
4. Unfair Advantages: Many P2E games incorporate “pay-to-win” mechanics, where those who spend more can gain unfair advantages. This can lead to an unbalanced game environment where skill is overshadowed by who paid more.

Scams and fraud

To protect yourself, conduct thorough research on platforms, and use secure wallets.

Be cautious of any game that seems too good to be true or asks for sensitive information. Remember, the crypto gaming space is still largely unregulated, especially when it comes to new projects. 

Always use good judgment and research the developers as well as the overall community.

Tips to maximize your earnings

Turning your gaming time into significant financial rewards requires more than just playing, it’s about playing smart. Here are detailed, actionable tips to help you maximize your earnings in play-to-earn (P2E) games:

• Participate in Community Events and Competitions: Many P2E games, like Axie Infinity and Splinterlands, host regular events or tournaments with high-stakes prizes. Joining these events helps you maximize your earnings. For example, Splinterlands often rewards top players with DEC tokens and rare cards, which you can sell or use to improve your deck.
• Focus on High-Reward Activities: In games like Illuvium, prioritize capturing rare creatures or completing challenging quests that yield high-value NFTs or tokens. Similarly, in The Sandbox, build unique and creative experiences to attract buyers for your in-game creations.
• Use Staking Opportunities: Games like Aavegotchi and DeFi Kingdoms allow you to stake your earned tokens or in-game assets. Staking is an excellent way to earn passive income while playing. For example, in DeFi Kingdoms, staking JEWEL tokens provides consistent rewards and unlocks in-game perks and bonuses.
• Master the In-Game Economy: Understand market dynamics. In Decentraland, for instance, the value of virtual land can fluctuate based on demand and upcoming events. Keep an eye on marketplace trends and time your asset sales strategically.
• Invest in Skill Development: High-level gameplay often unlocks the most valuable rewards. In games like Axie Infinity, improving your strategy in PvP battles can result in higher token earnings and better marketplace prices for your Axies. Tutorials, practice, and engaging with experienced players in forums can sharpen your skills.
• Diversify Your Portfolio: Don’t put all your efforts into one game. Exploring multiple games diversifies your income streams and reduces risks tied to the volatility of a single in-game economy.
• Time Your Token Trades: Market timing can significantly impact your profits. Monitor crypto exchanges for trends, such as when tokens are at a good price, and sell accordingly.
• Build and Sell NFTs: In games like The Sandbox, you can create and sell NFTs, such as unique voxel art or in-game items. If you have a creative flair, consider designing assets that players value, increasing your earnings potential.

Future of crypto gaming

In 2024 and 2025, keep an eye out for the integration of blockchain technology with the metaverse, along with the long-awaited incorporation of blockchain into AAA (Triple A) games.

This fusion is set to create immersive gaming experiences with unparalleled financial incentives. Just as importantly, a lot more people will start playing crypto games.

Trends to watch in 2025 and beyond

When P2E as a concept first got introduced, people were understandably hyped. However, it was still very new, and as with any new tech, there were lots of issues. But now, a couple of years down the line, those issues are being ironed out, and P2E is getting more and more viable.

Here are key trends to watch in 2025 and beyond:

• Mainstream Adoption of Blockchain Technology: In 2025, blockchain technology is anticipated to become a standard feature in many gaming platforms. This will facilitate the creation of more and more decentralized gaming experiences where players can own unique in-game assets, plus it will create new revenue streams for developers.
• Expansion of Play-to-Earn Models: The P2E model is expected to gain traction as more developers embrace blockchain. This shift will encourage more players who aren’t traditional gamers to engage with games, not just for entertainment but also as a potential income source.
• Improved Game Variety and Interactivity: The variety of games available will expand significantly, incorporating hybrid genres and innovative mechanics that blend traditional gameplay with blockchain elements. Developers will focus on creating immersive experiences that utilize AI and machine learning to tailor gameplay to individual preferences.
• Growth of Crypto Casinos: Crypto casinos are likely to see continued growth, offering players the chance to gamble using cryptocurrencies. The best crypto and Bitcoin casinos promise faster transactions, improved privacy, and lower fees compared to traditional online casinos. 

AAA games finally incorporating blockchain

With blockchain gaming on the rise, AAA game developers are now embracing this technology, which is a notable shift in the gaming industry. 

Major titles such as “BloodLoop” and “Shrapnel” are setting the stage for AAA games to incorporate blockchain features without sacrificing user experience.  These can turn out to be some of the best NFT games in 2024 and beyond.

The market for crypto gaming was estimated at $8.5 Billion in 2023, but it’s estimated to reach $314.3 Billion by 2030, which shows huge growth. (Source: ResearchAndMarket)

The bottom line

As you plunge into the world of crypto gaming, remember that earning cryptocurrency while playing video games shouldn’t be a replacement for your regular income, but rather a supplement to it. You need to understand the play-to-earn landscape, select the right platforms, and stay informed about market trends. 

With a solid grasp of crypto economics and game mechanics, you can maximize your rewards and earn yourself a nice bonus while playing video games. Always keep an eye on potential risks and stay grounded in this exciting and evolving field.

Enjin is, without a doubt, one of the pioneers in crypto gaming. See our article on the best Enjin games if you’re looking for even more P2E games.