John Smedley’s studio raises $30.5M for new shooter built on Etherlink

Gaming industry veteran John Smedley, renowned for his work on titles like EverQuest and PlanetSide, is venturing into the Web3 gaming space. This marks a significant development, signifying the growing interest of established game developers in integrating blockchain technology into mainstream gaming experiences. Smedley’s new project is a AAA shooter, a genre known for its high production values and immersive gameplay, indicating a serious commitment to delivering a high-quality product within the Web3 landscape.

The choice of Tezos, a proof-of-stake blockchain known for its energy efficiency and lower transaction fees compared to some competitors, is notable. The utilization of Etherlink, a layer-2 scaling solution built on Tezos, is particularly relevant. Layer-2 solutions are designed to improve transaction speeds and reduce costs associated with blockchain transactions, addressing a common criticism of blockchain technology’s scalability in gaming environments. By leveraging Etherlink, Smedley’s project aims to mitigate potential performance issues that could negatively impact the player experience. This strategic decision showcases a focus on delivering a smooth, responsive gaming experience without sacrificing the inherent benefits of blockchain integration.

The implications of this development are far-reaching. The entry of a veteran game developer like Smedley into the Web3 space adds credibility and legitimacy to the industry. His experience in creating successful AAA titles suggests a focus on creating a commercially viable product that appeals to a broad audience, not just crypto enthusiasts. The use of Tezos and Etherlink could also influence other game developers considering Web3 integration, highlighting the potential for scalable and cost-effective blockchain solutions.

This project underscores the growing convergence of traditional gaming and blockchain technology. Smedley’s foray into Web3 gaming signals a potential shift towards broader adoption of blockchain in the AAA game market. The success of his project will likely influence the future direction of Web3 gaming, demonstrating whether the technology can effectively enhance the player experience while creating a sustainable economic model. The combination of a seasoned developer, a suitable blockchain platform, and a proven layer-2 solution positions this AAA shooter as a potentially significant player in the evolving Web3 gaming landscape.