Daily Insights: Updates on Crypto, Blockchain, NFTs, Web3, and Play-to-Earn Gaming

In this insightful article, Chris Clay, the Vice President and Game Director of Gods Unchained, shares his perspective on the transformative trends in the Web3 gaming industry, with a particular emphasis on the role played by Immutable, a pioneering player in this space.Evolution of Web3 Gaming: The article begins by highlighting the evolution of Web3 gaming, pointing out that early Web3 games suffered from subpar graphics, complex investment requirements, and tedious gameplay. Additionally, many of these early games were plagued by speculative elements tied to cryptocurrencies, which ultimately led to unsatisfactory player experiences.Prioritizing Fun and Digital Ownership: In recent times, there has been a fundamental shift in the game development approach. Developers now prioritize the core aspect of gaming – the fun element – and digital ownership of in-game assets. The article underscores the significance of this shift, as it not only enhances the player's experience but also introduces a novel dual monetization system benefiting both game creators and players.Democratizing Gaming with Web3: Chris Clay emphasizes that Web3 technology is gaining popularity because it makes gaming more open and accessible. Game developers are increasingly embracing this user-centric approach, moving away from jargon-filled blockchain and crypto discussions to focus on delivering enjoyable experiences without requiring players to understand the underlying technology. This shift aims to make Web3 gaming as accessible and user-friendly as traditional Web2 games, addressing issues such as transaction speed and security.Immutable's Solutions for Accessibility: The article delves into Immutable's role in enhancing accessibility within Web3 gaming. Immutable offers two promising solutions: Immutable Passport and Immutable zkEVM. Immutable Passport streamlines user onboarding by enabling password-free sign-ins and automatic wallet creation, enhancing both security and community building for developers. Immutable zkEVM, on the other hand, leverages zero-knowledge proof-based cryptography, often dubbed the "Holy Grail of Ethereum scaling," to provide a platform that integrates seamlessly with the Ethereum Virtual Machine, empowering developers to create cost-effective, fast, and secure Web3 gaming ecosystems.Immutable's Vision: Immutable's ultimate goal, as highlighted in the article, is to make players feel like they are engaging in a "game" rather than just a "web3 game." They aim to augment existing games by incorporating decentralized elements that elevate the overall gaming experience, offering new opportunities and enriching already successful games.Immutable's Impact: The article underscores Immutable's significant role in the Web3 gaming industry, emphasizing its commitment to innovation and immersive experiences. Immutable offers gamers true digital ownership through NFTs, leveraging blockchain technology. Immutable Games focuses on assisting developers, actively supporting and collaborating with third-party game developers across various aspects of Web3 strategy, from NFTs to blockchain integration and community building. The article also mentions that Immutable hosts over 150 Web3 gaming titles, including renowned titles such as Illuvium, Cross the Ages, Gods Unchained, Undead Blocks, Aglet, Kiraverse, and many more.In summary, this article provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of Web3 gaming, the vital role of digital ownership, and the strides Immutable is making to improve accessibility and user experiences. It paints a clear picture of how Web3 technology is reshaping the gaming industry and how Immutable is at the forefront of these transformative changes.

MetaCene has emerged as a prominent player in the crypto gaming community, offering a unique player-centric gaming experience through the integration of blockchain technology in the rapidly evolving world of GameFi. In an era where profitability has often overshadowed the core essence of gaming—enjoyment—MetaCene aims to strike a balance by providing both entertainment and profit opportunities.Developed over nearly two years by a distinguished team of developers led by Tan Qunzhao, MetaCene has been making waves since its launch in August 2023. The game stands out as a free-to-play experience that sometimes feels like it's giving away free cash. Its profit model hinges on taking a share of crypto transactions between players, with plans to secure $8 million in alternative funding sources, possibly involving venture capitalists, and the backing of Sinovation Ventures by Kai-Fu Lee.The journey of MetaCene began with the completion of its First Playable Prototype in July 2022, sparking excitement among players and developers. It served as a pivotal moment, offering a glimpse into what the game could become. Subsequently, a demo version was finished in September 2022, accompanied by teaser trailers and the launch of the game's official website, version 1.0, which allowed players to delve deeper into the project.MetaCene's commitment to player engagement and community building was evident through invite-only demo testing in November 2022, seeking insights from select players. Embracing both Web2 and Web3 social promotion, MetaCene aimed to instill trust and empowerment in players while aligning with the trend of players seeking greater agency in their gaming experiences.In the first quarter of 2023, MetaCene expanded its gameplay and map, promising a more immersive environment. This expansion introduced software development kits (SDKs) that streamlined access to the game, including a marketplace for in-game asset trading and sales.The launch of Alpha testing V.1 in the second quarter of 2023 marked a significant milestone, allowing players to experience the game's mechanics and features more comprehensively. What sets MetaCene apart is its integration of non-fungible tokens (NFTs), notably the "MetaCene Apostle NFT collection."MetaCene's innovative approach extends to player co-governance and autonomy. Players can create their own Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) and guilds, giving them a genuine say in managing aspects of the game world. This introduces dynamic economic elements through self-governance policies and empowers players in shaping the MetaCene universe.Looking ahead, MetaCene plans to conduct Alpha testing V.2 and launch its mainnet blockchain in the third quarter of 2023. These developments reflect the game's ongoing progress and its commitment to delivering a player-centric, blockchain-powered gaming experience. Success will depend on MetaCene's ability to navigate the challenges of the gaming industry while staying true to its vision.

Mythical Games has made a groundbreaking announcement, revealing plans to bring their multiplayer sensation, Blankos Block Party, to mobile devices, including Android and iOS. The official release plan is yet to be unveiled, but Mythical Games' CEO and co-founder, Jamie Jackson, has provided some insights into this strategic move. The decision to expand to mobile gaming is seen as a potential game-changer, aiming to attract a broader audience and maintain player engagement through exciting updates.Blankos Block Party, originally released on PC, experienced early success, becoming the first blockchain game to reach one million players. It gained recognition from major brands and regulators like Prime Gaming, ESRB, PEGI, Burberry, Godzilla (Toho), Pop-Tarts, and Deadmau5, making it a pioneer in incorporating blockchain technology into gaming.Mythical Games is shifting its development focus from PC to Blankos Mobile, aligning with the global trend of mobile gaming's popularity, which boasts over 2.4 billion players worldwide. The intention is to bridge the existing PC user base to mobile, offering a seamless gaming experience with the same Blankos account usable on both platforms.This move also brings a wave of exciting new features, including collaborations, multiplayer options with friends, and enhanced customization for Blankos characters. The game's mission of discovery, production, and collection remains central, allowing players to explore user-created content and enjoy various game modes.The mobile version of Blankos Block Party promises to introduce features like a battle royale mode and crafting systems, capitalizing on the mobile gaming industry's growth. While this transition presents challenges, including the need for careful attention to detail and infrastructure improvements, it signifies a significant investment for Mythical Games, ensuring their continued prominence in the gaming world. Ultimately, it aims to deliver an immersive and captivating mobile gaming experience like never before.

Mystic Moose, a prominent video game developer, has launched the "Planet Mojo Marketplace" powered by the Polygon blockchain, aiming to create a centralized hub for Mojo Melee players. This update promises faster service and lower transaction costs for players in the Mojo Melee virtual world, just in time for holiday-themed events and trades between Champions and Mojos.The Planet Mojo Marketplace enables players to trade Mojo Melee NFTs on the Polygon blockchain, offering a seamless experience with support for Sequence Wallet, Horizon Blockchain Game's infrastructure, quick credit card transactions, and multi-chain compatibility within the EVM ecosystem. This release coincides with the Fall Faceoff competition, where top players have the chance to win rare NFTs, gem packs, and other rewards.Additionally, Mystic Moose's collaboration with Amazon Prime Gaming intensifies, with Amazon showing its commitment to Web3 technology and blockchain-based games. Amazon's involvement with NFT projects, including its own upcoming NFT initiative, reflects the company's dedication to interactive storytelling and empowering players.Mojo Melee, an auto-battler game similar to Auto Chess and Teamfight Tactics, offers Amazon Prime members a free NFT and in-game currency, further strengthening the partnership between Mystic Moose and Amazon Prime. Players can claim exclusive rewards until September 27.Mystic Moose, composed of industry veterans with backgrounds in major gaming companies, is dedicated to developing the Planet Mojo metaverse platform, offering esports and PvP competitions set on an otherworldly planet. Players can create teams of mythical animals to compete, emphasizing player control over virtual possessions and the game's evolution.In summary, Mystic Moose's Planet Mojo Marketplace enhances the player experience with NFT trading, while ongoing collaborations with Amazon Prime Gaming provide exclusive benefits to players. Mystic Moose remains at the forefront of the evolving game industry, focusing on immersive and player-centric experiences.

Gala Games, the prominent blockchain and web3 gaming ecosystem, is currently embroiled in a significant internal dispute that has sent shockwaves throughout the industry. The conflict involves top management, including CEO Eric Shiermeyer and co-founder Wright Thurston, who are facing accusations of misconduct.The dispute came to light when Eric Shiermeyer, representing Gala Games, filed a lawsuit against Wright Thurston in a Utah District Court. Shiermeyer alleges that Thurston, with the assistance of his investment firm, True North United Investments, orchestrated the theft of approximately $130 million worth of GALA tokens in Q1 2021. Thurston allegedly conducted complex transactions that moved the tokens from a secure wallet to 43 different wallets. When confronted, Thurston initially claimed the tokens were safe, but he subsequently engaged in a series of intricate transactions, including sales and exchanges, from September 2022 to May 2023.Moreover, Thurston is accused of acquiring licenses necessary to operate Gala ecosystem nodes without payment and subsequently selling these licenses for personal gain.In retaliation, Thurston's company, True North, filed a countersuit against Schiermeyer on Gala's behalf. This countersuit accuses Schiermeyer of mismanagement, causing Gala to sell and waste valuable company assets, and borrowing millions from Gala for personal expenditures. It also alleges that Schiermeyer set up Gala companies in Switzerland and Dubai without consulting Thurston, despite Thurston being a director of Gala. True North claims that Schiermeyer provided Thurston with incomplete or incorrect business records when requested.Both leaders are seeking each other's removal from Gala Games, along with various forms of relief and the return of GALA tokens. Thurston is additionally suing for at least $750 million in damages and other relief.The lawsuit has shed light on Thurston's troubled history, including involvement in businesses with legal and financial issues, as well as past disputes with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). These factors have raised questions about Thurston's business ethics and practices.Gala Games, known for hosting popular games like Champions Arena, Grit, Spider Tanks, and Mirandus, relies heavily on the GALA token for its in-game economy. However, GALA's value has plummeted by 72% since January, largely due to broader market trends affecting cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. The ongoing legal disputes have added a layer of uncertainty to Gala Games' future, causing concerns among investors and stakeholders about its stability and plans.

In the ever-evolving world of cryptocurrency, knowledge is your compass. This comprehensive article takes you on a journey through the cryptocurrency maze, exploring Bitcoin's 2023 surge, Ethereum 2.0's transformation, NFT trends, DeFi innovations, regulatory shifts, and much more. Whether you're a seasoned crypto enthusiast or a newcomer, understanding these facets of the crypto space is essential.Bitcoin's remarkable price surge in 2023, driven by institutional interest and global economic uncertainties, sets the stage. Ethereum's transition to Ethereum 2.0, with its proof-of-stake consensus mechanism and environmental sustainability focus, underscores the transformative power of blockchain technology.Navigating the regulatory landscape is crucial, as governments worldwide seek to strike a balance between innovation and investor protection. Stay informed about regulatory changes affecting cryptocurrency taxation, security practices, and compliance requirements.Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) have disrupted traditional industries, offering unique digital assets that empower creators, collectors, and investors. Explore NFT market trends and notable sales to understand the evolution of digital culture.Decentralized Finance (DeFi) has revolutionized traditional financial systems, but it's not without its challenges. Learn about DeFi hacks and security concerns, essential for participants seeking to harness its potential while protecting their assets.Cryptocurrency's integration into traditional finance is on the rise, reshaping how we transact and invest. Stay up-to-date with the latest developments in this convergence.Cryptocurrency taxation is a complex landscape, from capital gains tax to transaction reporting. Understanding these tax implications is crucial for managing tax liabilities effectively.Blockchain technology advances beyond cryptocurrencies, with cross-chain interoperability projects and the proliferation of smart contracts. Explore how these innovations are reshaping industries.Remember that knowledge is your greatest asset in the cryptocurrency universe. Stay curious, stay informed, and navigate the dynamic landscape with confidence.FAQs provided address common questions, covering Bitcoin's surge, Ethereum 2.0, regulatory developments, NFTs, DeFi security, traditional finance adoption, cryptocurrency taxation, and blockchain advancements. Whether you're new to crypto or an experienced investor, these FAQs offer valuable insights.

In the world of Web3 gaming and NFTs, this article covers the beta launch of "Legends of the Mara" by Yuga Labs, Zebedee's release of six Bitcoin-earning mobile games, the NFT brands launched by Todd McFarlane and Patrick Mahomes, MetalCore's open beta registration, the evolving landscape of The Sandbox, and the major update rolled out for the Web3 game Big Time. The launch of "Legends of the Mara" by Yuga Labs, known for its success in web3 gaming. This open beta 2D strategy game allows players to embark on a magical adventure, collecting valuable "sediment" and defending their lands from dark forces. Players can transform unique Vessels into powerful Kodamara, and rare Kodas can be found in specific land plots.Zebedee, a Bitcoin payment platform, has expanded into mobile gaming by releasing six new games within the ZBD Entertainment Hub. Players can earn small amounts of Bitcoin (sats) while playing these games, which can be used for in-game purchases or real-world spending.Notable figures like Todd McFarlane and NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes have entered the NFT arena by launching their own NFT brands and collections. Batman NFTs, for instance, have quickly sold out on McFarlane's platform.MetalCore has opened registration for its highly anticipated open beta, offering players the chance to secure a spot and receive a valuable in-game vehicle as an early signup bonus.The Sandbox platform is evolving as third-party developers organize events and introduce "play-to-earn" opportunities. Pickaxe Master, a game within The Sandbox, has initiated an Alpha Mining Season with leaderboards and rewards. Both official and community-run events cater to diverse gaming interests.The web3 game Big Time has introduced a substantial update, including data resets, enhanced visuals, rebalanced encounters, new Boss monsters, additional character skills, new goals, and an expanded user interface. Nightmare dungeons have been added for players seeking a more challenging experience.In summary, the article discusses various developments in the Web3 gaming industry and the growing presence of NFTs, covering game launches, NFT brand launches by celebrities, open beta registrations, platform changes in The Sandbox, and a major update for the game Big Time.

Main Event Entertainment and Roblox have formed an exciting partnership to create a unique virtual gaming experience in the Metaverse. Main Event Entertainment, a renowned family entertainment company with 58 centers across 18 U.S. states, is known for its diverse entertainment options, including bowling, laser tag, and virtual reality games. Roblox, a global leader in virtual gaming and creativity, offers a platform where players can engage in various activities and build their virtual worlds.The collaboration between Main Event and Roblox has resulted in the creation of "Main Event World" on Roblox, aiming to provide the ultimate Main Event experience in the Metaverse. In this virtual world, visitors can enjoy thrilling activities such as laser tag and bowling, with customizable difficulty levels. The CEO of Main Event, Chris Morris, highlights the goal of creating unforgettable family memories through this venture.To enhance the experience in Main Event World on Roblox, a pop-up shop has been introduced, offering exclusive items to personalize avatars and collect unique accessories. Players can earn these items by winning in the virtual world and collecting tickets.As an incentive to explore Main Event World on Roblox, the first 5,000 users who complete a set of games will receive a special code unlocking a real-world reward: a FREE $5 Fun Card. This card can be redeemed at their local Main Event location, allowing users to enjoy a day of in-person entertainment, bridging the gap between the virtual and physical worlds.This collaboration between Main Event Entertainment and Roblox promises to deliver unforgettable experiences and meaningful interactions for families, friends, and the Roblox community, creating a new dimension of entertainment in the Metaverse.

MetalCore is an upcoming free-to-play multiplayer shooter set in a futuristic world filled with giant mechs, armored tanks, and high-flying jets battling for control of the alien world Kerberos. Players can engage in joint PvE and online PvP 50v50 mega-battles on a growing sandbox map. Pre-registration for MetalCore's open beta is now available, offering players the chance to secure a highly valued in-game vehicle. Pre-registered players will also have access to closed beta testing sessions, distributed through Epic Games Store keys, with an increasing number of participants.What makes MetalCore even more exciting is its partnership with Immutable, a prominent tech partner. This collaboration not only enhances gameplay but also contributes to the advancement of Web3 gaming. MetalCore features a mix of first-person and third-person perspectives, with faction-based warfare involving up to 100 players per side. Winning requires teamwork and strategic control of key points on the map.The game offers both PvE and PvP zones, allowing players to earn valuable FAB coins for customization and upgrades. Garages serve as hubs for vehicle customization, while Baronies create a sense of belonging within the player community. MetalCore plans to be free-to-play, with a Content Creator's program to incentivize streamers and video creators.As MetalCore undergoes alpha testing, players can anticipate exciting new features stemming from its partnership with Immutable X, including the Immutable Passport and marketplace integration, promising an even more engaging gaming experience.

In the digital entertainment landscape, NFT games have emerged as a revolutionary force, captivating gamers, developers, investors, and collectors worldwide. This comprehensive guide delves into the captivating realm of NFT games, covering various aspects of these blockchain-based gaming experiences.The journey begins with an exploration of NFT game development, detailing the steps and tools necessary to create immersive NFT gaming experiences. Blockchain integration is a pivotal element, ensuring security, transparency, and ownership control. The guide explores different blockchains used in NFT gaming and addresses scalability challenges and solutions.NFT gaming platforms serve as gateways to thrilling experiences. Readers will discover popular platforms, their features, and valuable tips for choosing the right one. Play-to-earn games offer players opportunities to earn NFTs and cryptocurrency, with insights into their models and strategies.Collectibles are a significant facet of NFT games. The guide delves into the appeal of NFT game collectibles and provides guidance on trading and valuation. NFT game marketplaces are vital for buying, selling, and trading NFTs, and the guide offers step-by-step instructions and security considerations.Decentralized game worlds are explored, highlighting their potential in transforming gaming experiences. Tokenomics plays a pivotal role in NFT gaming, shaping in-game economies and player interactions. The guide also delves into NFT games' role in building the metaverse.Art and gaming merge in NFT game artwork, with insights into their creation and collectible value. NFT game communities foster collaboration and networking among enthusiasts, while NFT game auctions add excitement and offer valuable assets.Collaborations between gaming studios and NFT platforms are showcased, emphasizing their impact on innovation. NFT game avatars allow for personalization and collectibility, while blockchain scalability remains a crucial challenge in the industry.Security considerations are paramount in NFT gaming, and best practices are detailed. Developers' tools and legal and regulatory issues are explored in depth. Effective NFT game marketing strategies are discussed, along with success stories.The guide concludes with a glimpse into the future of NFT gaming, predicting emerging technologies and their impact on the industry.

Yuga Labs, renowned for its successful NFT collections like Bored Ape Yacht Club and Otherside, is unveiling an open beta for the web3 game "Legends of the Mara." This 2D strategy game is an extension of the Otherside universe and offers NFT rewards and a chance to explore the Otherside Metaverse. Yuga Labs has a strong presence in web3 gaming and has previously launched popular projects like Mutant Ape Yacht Club and Dookey Dash.The journey to "Legends of the Mara" began in August 2022 with the first trip into the Otherside metaverse, followed by a second trip with even more users. This led to the announcement of the alpha version of "Legends of the Mara."In this magical world, players can witness their Mara characters transform into powerful Kodamaras while embarking on quests to collect valuable "sediment" and protect their Otherdeed lands from malevolent forces. Owners of Otherdeed NFT land can claim a special Vessel, which can transform into unique Mara characters and eventually into Kodamaras.The game features three types of Maras: Hunters, Farmers, and Enchanters, with their evolution influenced by the seasons and unique land qualities. Yuga Labs promises continuous improvement and rewards for Otherdeed NFT holders as they approach the full release of "Legends of the Mara."Yuga Labs' success is evident through the popularity of Otherdeed NFTs, with a staggering trading volume of over $1.26 billion. The open beta of "Legends of the Mara" marks a significant milestone in web3 gaming, offering players a chance to delve into a captivating digital world and earn valuable rewards as they explore new aspects of the game.

ZBD, ZEBEDEE, a Bitcoin payment platform known for its support of developers and financial services, is now expanding into the gaming industry by introducing six new mobile game titles on its ZBD Entertainment Hub. These games offer players the opportunity to earn "sats," Bitcoin fractions, which can be used for in-game purchases, tipping developers, or real-world purchases.The six new mobile games are: Bitcoin Cards, Dubbz Arcade, WinStreakz, Finke Desert Race Game, Satoshi Goals, Bitcoin2048.Dubbz Arcade introduces an asynchronous player matchmaking mode, allowing players to compete with opponents at different times. If no opponent is found within 24 hours, the entry fee is refunded.WinStreakz is a sports competition app where users can win real cash prizes by making correct predictions and accumulating points.ZBD's API enables immediate global payments, benefiting nearly 250 apps and games. This technology has significantly improved ARPDAU and retention rates for various games.ZBD has also released its Lightning-based payments technology through a tiered subscription platform for developers of all sizes. Developers can now easily integrate ZEBEDEE payments into their projects without a manual review process.Simon Cowell, CEO and Co-Founder of ZBD, expressed pride in welcoming new game developers and titles to their platform. Jon Hook, Co-Founder of Bitcoin Cards developer PlayEmber, emphasized the value of ZBD in attracting and retaining users while benefiting game developers.Developers interested in exploring the ZBD API and Lightning Network can start with up to 100,000 transactions per month for free. The ZBD app is available on both iOS and Android platforms.ZBD, a financial technology company, specializes in Bitcoin Lightning Network-based payment systems. Backed by major VCs and game studios, ZBD's tools facilitate easy payment integration for developers, enabling instant global transactions for games, websites, and applications, bridging the gap between the virtual and real worlds.

With the release of Web3 games, the gaming industry has been on the verge of a big change. The use of blockchain technology and NFTs gives gamers a sense of ownership and creative freedom, as well as a sense of reward and freedom. In this article, we'll explore the exciting worlds of the top 20 Web3 games, where players become real stakeholders in virtual realms. The first 10 are: Infinite Victory, Words3, Wild Forest, SpeedThrone, Champions Tactics: Grimoria Chronicle, Rumble Arcade, Project T, Inmates, Galaxy Commanders, Battle of Three Kingdoms – Sangokushi Taisen.Infinite Victory: A game by Bit Fry Games and Immutable, combining basketball with other sports elements to teach players about 'phygital' ownership, active community participation, and inclusive gaming experiences.Words3: Puts a crypto twist on the popular crossword game Scrabble, where players use letters to make words with changing letter costs, aiming for higher scores and potential ETH rewards.Wild Forest: A real-time strategy game for mobile devices by Ronin, featuring player-versus-player deck-building with in-game assets like unit and skin NFTs.SpeedThrone: An esports racing game powered by Unreal Engine 5, combining car NFTs and the CRS token on Cardano, offering gameplay improvements through NFTs and VIP access.Champions Tactics: Grimoria Chronicle: An immersive PC RPG set in a world of mythical champions, offering tactical battles and magical adventures.Rumble Arcade: A web3 game focused on tactical battles, where players collaborate to navigate different battle scenarios, with unique Flamey NFTs available on Opensea.Project T: A virtual meetup game by Sky Mavis, creators of Axie Infinity, promoting player interaction through fun minigames and exploring the world of sapidae.Inmates: A Cardano blockchain NFT ecosystem project set in a prison setting, where players can purchase and wager on characters, earning SMOKES tokens through staking.Galaxy Commanders: A space-based player-versus-player game emphasizing strategic ship battles, cooperative modes, and missions, with plans to introduce customizable NFTs.Battle of Three Kingdoms – Sangokushi Taisen: A trading card game by double.jump tokyo, offering computer-based gameplay and continuous updates with new characters.

The Istanbul Blockchain Week 2023 event took place on August 22 and 23, attracting experts, developers, enthusiasts, and investors in the blockchain and cryptocurrency space. The event stood out due to its location in Istanbul, a growing hub of interest in blockchain technology. The event's focus on Islamic finance and Web3 technologies captured significant attention.Having evolved from small gatherings in the past, Istanbul Blockchain Week has grown into a global event with thousands of attendees. This year's edition covered diverse topics such as DeFi, Trading, Regulation, Mining, Venture Capital, and more, catering to the varied interests of its attendees.Notably, the event omitted discussions on NFTs, reflecting a shift in market trends as interest in NFT trading had significantly declined. Instead, the event showcased activities and engagements that involved artificial intelligence and blockchain integration.One of the event's highlights was Desi, a conversational AI robot developed by SingularityNET and Yaya Labs. This demonstrated the integration of AI technology within the blockchain and cryptocurrency ecosystem.The event's major focus was on Islamic finance, recognizing the potential of aligning blockchain with the principles of Islamic finance. Experts in this field discussed the importance of ethical finance and sustainable development, addressing a market of 1.9 billion people dissatisfied with traditional financial services.Artificial intelligence was also prominently featured during the event. Speakers explored how Web3 and AI could synergize and transform data ownership, privacy, and control. The concept of using blockchain technology to enable individuals to own and manage their own data was discussed as a potential disruptor to the existing "Big Tech monopoly."While the crypto industry has been rapidly growing worldwide, including in Turkey, adoption in the country has been somewhat slower. Nevertheless, Istanbul remains an active center for blockchain and crypto-related activities.

Yat Siu, the founder of Animoca Brands, a company with a substantial investment portfolio in the blockchain industry, envisions a metaverse that leverages blockchain technology to establish digital ownership within Web3 gaming. In contrast to interpretations offered by Meta (formerly Facebook) and Apple, Siu's metaverse emphasizes the importance of digital property rights over immersive virtual experiences.Siu's perspective centers on the concept of digital ownership as a catalyst for transformative growth in digital economies. He posits that a self-sustaining digital economy within the metaverse can only be achieved by introducing the notion of digital ownership, an aspect that goes beyond avatars or virtual reality headsets.In Siu's vision, the metaverse should grant individuals intellectual property rights over their data, much like the rights to physical property, life, and liberty in the real world. He critiques the current digital landscape for relinquishing these rights to platforms that hold extensive control over user data.Within the metaverse, data holds significant power, driving the structures that underpin the digital world's innovations and advancements. Siu emphasizes that Web3 technology, particularly the concept of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and their transactions, reshapes the dynamics of ownership and payment. Unlike Web2 platforms, where compensation mechanisms differ, the metaverse empowers creators and asset owners, enabling them to reap substantial benefits from multi-billion-dollar transactions.Siu highlights the potential of blockchain technology, which tracks transactions, ownership, and volumes meticulously. He underscores its utility in providing an organized framework that extends even to regions where traditional banking services are lacking. Decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) also play a role, offering a novel governance structure that could potentially outperform conventional corporate models.The central theme in Siu's metaverse concept is true ownership. He likens this to real-world ownership of assets, wherein legal systems, courts, and governance structures secure property rights. Siu contends that digital ownership, facilitated by blockchain, is equally if not more secure than real-world ownership, offering individuals greater control over their digital assets.Despite concerns about the speculative nature of token prices in Web3, the idea of ownership resonates universally. Siu underscores that decentralization is key to realizing this ownership, much like the mechanisms that safeguard real-world assets. In conclusion, Yat Siu's vision for the metaverse intertwines blockchain technology, digital ownership, and decentralization to foster a revolutionary digital economy.