On 3 April 2025, Kody fired up an Xtalks panel to tackle player loyalty in Web 3 gaming, joined by Paul (Tech Talks with Paul), King Snooch, Warp, Sir Choice, Nicole (Puffers), IMS (Basechain), and Steve (Earnscape). The group dug into why loyalty in Web 3 games often falters and how to spark lasting engagement. Here’s the essence.
Why Loyalty Falls Flat
King Snooch cut to the chase: Web 3 players are more like investors, hooked on profits, not gameplay. Loyalty ties to token payouts, not love for the game. Steve piled on—too many games obsess over financial lures, neglecting fun and community vibes. Sir Choice noted players flock for earnings but bounce when games lack depth, craving richer experiences to stick around.
Roadblocks in Web 3 Gaming
Paul called out clunky tech—awkward interfaces and wallet hassles drive players away. Simplifying access is critical. Nicole (Puffers) pushed for blending Web 2’s entertainment with Web 3’s economics to pull in broader crowds, balancing fun with sustainable rewards.
Community as the Glue
Sir Choice stressed that loyalty thrives on community and emotional ties—fun games keep players hooked. IMS (Basechain) likened loyalty to a cult-like following, saying Web 3 needs Web 2-level experiences to compete, or it’ll stay shallow.
Fixes for Sticky Players
- Customization: Personal touches, like character tweaks, deepen player bonds, per the panel.
- Intrinsic Rewards: Ditch heavy cash incentives for gameplay-driven joy to fuel lasting engagement.
Big Ideas and Analogies
Steve dropped a dating metaphor—game loyalty should mirror a relationship, enduring ups and downs. Kody brought up Self-Determination Theory, noting intrinsic motivations (fun, mastery) trump extrinsic rewards (tokens) for true loyalty.
Wrap-Up
The panel agreed: Web 3 games must pivot from profit-chasing to crafting joyful, community-rich experiences. Quality gameplay and emotional hooks, not just payouts, will unlock long-term loyalty.
Call to Action
Kody rallied the crew to keep pushing for solutions—collaborate, innovate, and build games that players love, not just bank on. Web 3’s future hinges on value-driven fun. Catch the full thread on X for more!
