Epic Games Store Adds Crypto-Enabled First-Person Shooter "Shrapnel"

Epic Games Store Lists Crypto Game “Shrapnel” in Early Access

The highly regarded Epic Games Store has included the upcoming blockchain game “Shrapnel” in its early access form, giving the ambitious crypto-enabled first-person shooter a significant platform to compete against other blockchain gaming pioneers like “Star Atlas” and “Illuvium.”

TLDR

Epic Games Store, with over 230 million PC gamers, lists the crypto game “Shrapnel” in early access form to compete with blockchain titles like “Star Atlas” and “Illuvium”
“Shrapnel” is a first-person shooter set in a dystopian world, billing itself as an “AAA extraction shooter”
The game involves NFTs and crypto token on Avalanche, seeking to let players customize all aspects from characters and weapons to maps
Early access launches allow studios like Neon Machine to build community and get feedback while continuing development towards 2025 full launch
Over 100,000 Discord members shows interest, but no blockchain game has crossed into mainstream gaming success yet

Ambitious Blockchain Game on Epic Games Store

Developed by studio Neon Machine, “Shrapnel” is a first-person shooter set in a dystopian sci-fi world. The game aims to be an “AAA extraction shooter” and incorporates NFT and crypto token mechanics on the Avalanche blockchain. This integration allows players to customize every aspect of the game, from characters and weapons to in-game maps.

Expanding the Blockchain Gaming Footprint

The gaming industry has yet to witness a blockchain game achieve mainstream success. However, by securing a listing on the prominent Epic Games Store, which boasts over 230 million PC gamers, “Shrapnel” has the opportunity to expand the presence of blockchain gaming beyond crypto enthusiasts.

Neon Machine is taking an interactive approach by launching “Shrapnel” in early access form. This allows the studio to involve the community and gather real-time feedback during the development process. The full launch is planned for 2025.

Early Signs of Enthusiasm

With already over 100,000 active members on Discord, Neon Machine is encouraged by the strong organic enthusiasm surrounding “Shrapnel” and its gameplay rewards model. CEO Mark Long believes this direct community engagement will help create a blockbuster-quality AAA first-person shooter game.

Challenges and Opportunities

The listing on Epic Games Store puts “Shrapnel” in direct competition with gaming giants like Call of Duty and Halo. Despite attracting significant venture funding, Neon Machine faces immense pressure to deliver on its vision for a groundbreaking crypto-powered shooter.

While some gamers are skeptical of blockchain integration and play-to-earn mechanics in traditional gaming formats, Neon Machine’s co-creation approach may entice enthusiasts who want to have a tangible impact on “Shrapnel” and connect closely with its community.

A Potential Gaming Revolution

If “Shrapnel” achieves its goal of becoming a mainstream gaming hit, it could signify a turning point for crypto-powered experiences. The game’s blend of digital asset ownership, creative participation, and gameplay rewards could pave the way for a new era of triple-A gaming.

Hot Take: “Shrapnel” Aims to Pioneer Blockchain Gaming

The early access phase of “Shrapnel” marks an important testing period for the game as it aims to make a breakthrough in blockchain gaming. Limited access to those who purchased Extraction Pack NFT keys allows Neon Machine to gather crucial feedback. This signifies the start of a more open, player-powered era in the triple-A gaming industry.