Upland Raises $7 Million in Series A Funding for Blockchain Gaming Expansion
Upland, a blockchain-based real estate collecting and trading game, has secured an additional $7 million in its Series A funding round. Led by EOS Network Ventures, this investment marks the firm’s first entry into the crypto gaming sector. The funds will be used to expand the Upland game, which allows players to buy and sell digital versions of real-world properties on a virtual map. In addition to improving gameplay, Upland plans to enhance its marketing strategy to attract more players and offer tools for external developers. Upland also intends to introduce an Ethereum token called “Sparklet,” linked to its existing in-game utility token, which could have significant implications for its presence in the broader crypto market.
The Choice of EOS Network Ventures
Despite EOS’s waning popularity, Upland chose to build its platform on the EOS network due to Ethereum’s high gas fees. According to Upland CEO Dirk Lueth, EOS was the optimal blockchain for their needs, allowing them to mint 80 NFTs per second. EOS Network Ventures’ involvement in the funding round demonstrates their confidence in Upland’s vision and technical capabilities.
Enhancing the Gaming Experience and Expanding Utility Token
The recent funding will not only improve Upland’s in-game experience but also drive the expansion of its utility token, Spark, onto the Ethereum blockchain as Sparklet. This strategic decision aims to increase Upland’s visibility in the broader market and attract more users. Upland has also partnered with the NFL Players Association to introduce new NFLPA Bundle types, further diversifying and expanding its offerings.
The Growing Role of Blockchain Gaming in Asia
SEGA’s co-COO and the CEO of Double Jump Tokyo recognize the potential for blockchain technology to revolutionize gameplay. Takuya Tsuji, the founder of Eureka Entertainment Ltd, highlights Asia’s growing adoption of web3 games and blockchain technology. Popular blockchain games like Axie Infinity in Southeast Asia and STEPN in Japan indicate the rising trend in Asia’s gaming market.
Hot Take: Blockchain Gaming Gains Momentum in Asia
The rise of blockchain gaming in Asia is gaining momentum, with Upland securing additional funding to expand its real estate collecting and trading game. By leveraging the EOS network, Upland aims to enhance gameplay and attract more players. The introduction of an Ethereum token called Sparklet opens up opportunities for wider market visibility. This move aligns with the growing interest in blockchain gaming across Asia, where popular games like Axie Infinity and STEPN have gained dedicated users. As blockchain technology continues to revolutionize gameplay, the future of gaming in Asia looks promising.