Gaming expertise overtakes crypto in Web3 sector, report reveals
The Blockchain Game Alliance (BGA) has released its 2024 State of the Industry Report which revealed a major shift in the professional backgrounds driving Web3 gaming. According to the survey, over half of respondents, 52.5 percent, now come from gaming, marking the highest proportion since the report’s inception in 2021. This reflects a steady move away from the dominance of blockchain or cryptocurrency specialists, who now represent just 10.8 percent of the workforce, a sharp decline from 21.7 percent in 2023.
“More professionals are coming into Web3 with a background in traditional gaming rather than crypto, and that is influencing the types of games being developed, particularly those that prioritise fun and engaging experiences over complexity,” Sebastien Borget, President of the BGA explained the impact of this shift.
“Web3 gaming has evolved from its crypto-driven, financialised origins into a space where fun-first games take the lead, with blockchain enhancing rather than defining the experience,” Kurt Watkins, Founder of Watkins Legal added.
Digital ownership: The leading benefit of blockchain gaming
For the fourth year running, asset ownership has been identified as the primary advantage of blockchain technology in gaming, with 71.1 percent of respondents affirming its importance. This feature, enabling players to truly own their digital assets, continues to set Web3 gaming apart from traditional models.
Additionally, four in ten respondents highlighted new player reward and revenue models as major benefits of blockchain integration. These models, such as play-to-airdrop and create-to-earn systems, exemplify the earning opportunities unique to Web3 technology.
“Web3 is likely to transform how games are funded and published first rather than solving game experiences, which Web2 already addresses very well,” Miko Matsumura, Managing Partner at gumi Cryptos Capital, said.
The report also reveals progress in addressing onboarding difficulties, which remain the industry’s greatest challenge but were cited by only 53.9 percent of respondents in 2024, down from 79.5 percent in 2023. This decline reflects ongoing efforts to streamline the user experience by moving complex decentralisation processes into the background.
“In 2024, we’ve seen real progress in making blockchain games more accessible,” Borget said. “The success of platforms like TON highlights how simple, approachable games can drive mass adoption.”
“We have made significant strides when it comes to onboarding, user experience, and ensuring sustainable token economies within the realm of Web3 gaming,” Brian Chan, Head of Strategy and Operations at Animoca Brand added.
Despite these improvements, misconceptions about blockchain gaming persist. Accusations of scams or Ponzi schemes remain widespread, with 66.3 percent of respondents encountering such claims. A newer misconception that Web3 gaming is overrun with bots was reported by 29.5 percent of industry professionals.
Source: BGA
Growth and engagement across the industry
Participation in the BGA survey has tripled since 2021, highlighting robust industry engagement. Furthermore, regions such as South America, the Middle East, and Africa are experiencing expanding activity, moving beyond the earlier concentration in Asia, Europe, and North America.
However, gender diversity continues to be a challenge. Female representation in the industry stands at 17.3 percent, a slight increase from 16.9 percent in 2023, but women remain underrepresented in senior roles.
Onchain innovation driving new possibilities
Fully onchain games (FOCG), which run entirely on blockchain — including logic, assets, and interactions — emerged as a key innovation. These games are reshaping blockchain infrastructure by driving demand for higher transaction speeds and cost-efficient systems.
“We’re excited about the future of gaming onchain, which bridges the gap between virtual and real-world ownership. With onchain gaming, players can actually own their assets and accomplishments and take their assets from one game to another,” Jesse Pollak, creator of Base said.
“2025 will be a huge year as the next massive wave of gamers arrive onchain,” Piers Kicks, Founding Partner at Delphi Ventures added.
Regional differences in blockchain gaming priorities are also becoming evident. While Asia and Latin America focus on player rewards and alternative income models, North America and Europe prioritise decentralised ownership and new revenue frameworks.
Future: Consolidation, AI, and interoperability
For 2025, the report outlines several trends likely to shape the industry. Consolidation of blockchain infrastructure projects is expected, reducing oversaturation in the market. Meanwhile, Web3 elements will increasingly operate in the background to ensure a seamless player experience.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to become a core feature, enabling more personalised gameplay. Enhanced interoperability is also predicted, allowing players to transfer digital reputations, verified skills, and achievements across games and platforms.
The report added that decentralised esports could grow, with community-driven events enabling broader participation and collective prize pools.
A growing industry
“In 2025, Web3 gaming will see the release of its first blockbuster titles, marking a shift towards mainstream acceptance,” Nicolas Gilot, CEO and Founder of Ultra, said.
Meanwhile, Borget concluded, “This year has brought significant advancements in top-tier games and strategic collaborations between leading Web2 companies and blockchain ecosystems. The future of gaming is onchain, and the industry is ready to embrace it.”
“Together, we build an industry that empowers players, fosters innovation, and reshapes the future of gaming.”
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