In a recent blog post by Joseph Mills, the group product manager of Google Play, it was announced that the platform now permits video game publishers to sell nonfungible token (NFT) games on its store.
This update, shared on July 12, highlights Google Play’s commitment to exploring innovative ways for users to transact blockchain-based digital content within apps and games, while also enhancing user loyalty through unique NFT rewards.
The move by Google Play marks a significant shift from its previous stance on cryptocurrency-related applications.
Back in 2018, the platform banned crypto mining apps, and in 2020, it removed the Bitcoin Blast video game due to “deceptive practices.”
In contrast, Apple’s App Store announced in October that NFTs acquired outside of its ecosystem cannot confer special benefits to users within a game, under the risk of being banned.
Furthermore, NFTs sold within the App Store must adhere to a 30% fee to Apple.
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These decisions and statements led many industry experts to speculate that mobile NFT games were under attack. However, Google Play’s recent policy revision clearly signals a welcoming approach to these games on Android devices, albeit with a few regulations in place.
According to Mills’ blog post, game developers must transparently indicate if their games enable users to earn or purchase NFTs or cryptocurrencies.
Moreover, developers are prohibited from glamorizing potential earnings from playing or trading activities, as well as selling loot boxes or incorporating gambling features.
By complying with these guidelines, game developers can leverage tokenized assets to enhance the gaming experience.
They are encouraged to reimagine traditional games by integrating user-owned content. Google Play emphasized that it collaborated with leaders in Web3 gaming to establish these rules and expressed its commitment to engaging with developers to understand their challenges and explore further opportunities.
The decision by Google Play to allow NFT games on its platform represents a significant development for the gaming industry.
With these updated policies in place, developers can harness the power of NFTs to create unique and engaging experiences for players, while adhering to responsible practices outlined by Google Play.
As the ecosystem evolves, it is likely that we will witness further collaboration between game developers and platforms, leading to exciting advancements in the intersection of gaming and blockchain technology.
