Description: P2E, or ‘Play to Earn’, is an innovative gaming model that allows players to earn monetary rewards or digital assets through their participation in video games. This approach transforms the traditional gaming experience, where fun and entertainment are the main goals, into an opportunity to generate income. In P2E games, players can earn cryptocurrencies, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and other digital assets that can be exchanged or sold in virtual markets. This model is based on digital economy and blockchain technology, ensuring the ownership and authenticity of the assets obtained. The main features of P2E games include engaging gameplay, the possibility of character and environment customization, and social interaction among players. Additionally, it fosters an active and committed community, where players can collaborate and compete with each other. The relevance of P2E lies in its ability to democratize access to economic opportunities in the entertainment realm, allowing people from various parts of the world to participate and benefit from this new form of digital economy.
History: The concept of ‘Play to Earn’ began to gain popularity in the early 2020s, driven by the rise of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. One of the most significant milestones was the launch of Axie Infinity in 2018, a game that allowed players to breed, battle, and trade digital creatures called Axies, generating real income through the sale of these assets. As more developers adopted this model, interest in P2E games grew exponentially, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when many people sought new forms of entertainment and income opportunities from home.
Uses: P2E games are primarily used in the realm of digital entertainment, where players can engage in various activities such as breeding and trading characters, completing missions, and participating in competitions. Additionally, this model has been used to promote financial education and economic inclusion, allowing people in developing countries to access income through gameplay. Applications in the digital art realm are also being explored, where creators can monetize their works through NFTs.
Examples: A prominent example of a P2E game is Axie Infinity, where players can earn tokens through breeding and battling Axies. Another example is Decentraland, a virtual world where users can buy, sell, and develop digital land, generating income through the creation of experiences and events. Additionally, games like The Sandbox and Sorare have also adopted the P2E model, allowing players to earn rewards through their active participation.
