In the last few years, you could hardly move through the Internet without stumbling upon the topics of blockchain and NFT. SEGA also jumped on the train in 2021 and announced that it would deal more intensively with the technology. Apparently, this step is now regretted, at least the company states that it is putting its efforts on hold for the time being.
To be precise, the traditional Japanese company announced in April 2021 that they wanted to take a closer look at the possibilities of blockchain, NFTs and cryptocurrencies. The company has not yet presented any concrete projects, but a certain enthusiasm could be read from the announcements. Apparently, the enthusiasm has now evaporated because, as SEGA announces, the blockchain plans are being put on hold for the time being.
>> Games as a Service: A real problem for single player games <<
That’s according to a statement by Shuji Utsumi, SEGA’s co-chief operating officer, to Bloomberg. In the interview, he went on to say that the company wants to keep major brands away from third-party manufacturers and blockchain projects. The reason: The development of the crypto industry should not harm the in-house IPs. As is well known, the industry has been in sharp decline in recent months.
In addition, Utsumi states that blockchain titles will not be further focused as he believes play-to-earn games are not fun: “The premise of play-to-earn titles is boring. What is the value if games no fun?”
However, SEGA is not completely out when it comes to blockchain: “First of all, we are observing whether this technology can establish itself in the video game segment.” This continuing interest in the technology also confirms the future strategy. Smaller brands like “Virtua Fighter” or “Three Kingdoms” continue to publish NFT content. These are offered in cooperation with external partners.
The blue hedgehog Sonic has been up to mischief in the games business for 25 years now.
