Web3-enabled gaming store HyperPlay has partnered with digital asset wallet MetaMask to streamline the discovery of blockchain games. This collaboration introduces the MetaMask game directory within the MetaMask Portfolio, creating a unified platform for game discovery and in-game asset management. This initiative aims to enhance the Web3 user experience, making transactions and game discovery more seamless and accessible.
Bridging Web2 and Web3 Gaming
Web3 games have faced challenges in reaching mainstream audiences, despite millions of players engaging with hybrid Web2/Web3 games available on traditional app stores. MetaMask’s new directory offers gamers an integrated way to discover Web3 games while conducting in-game transactions using cryptocurrency wallets like MetaMask, owned by ConsenSys.
HyperPlay’s game store eliminates barriers by functioning as an aggregator for various stores, including the Epic Games Store. This consolidation allows players to access the latest games without being restricted by individual storefronts. HyperPlay’s 0% fee model ensures that all funds spent on games go directly to developers, supporting ongoing game development. The platform emphasizes innovation, providing features such as interoperable items, wallets, and cross-platform support for Windows, MacOS, SteamDeck, and Linux, creating an expansive and user-centric gaming ecosystem.
Integration and Enhanced User Experience
With the MetaMask integration, players can now discover games compatible with MetaMask directly within the platform, merging mainstream gaming with blockchain utility in an unprecedented way. Prior to HyperPlay’s launch, Web3 game players had to navigate separate marketplaces outside the games to access Web3 features. Since its debut in March 2023, HyperPlay has offered a unique MetaMask wallet overlay that facilitates in-game purchases and token collection across all its titles, regardless of whether the games are native or browser-based.
This initial integration between HyperPlay and the MetaMask Portfolio enhances the user experience for in-game transactions and boosts interoperability between games. The launch of MetaMask Snaps in December 2023 further expanded MetaMask’s native functionality, providing support for non-EVM blockchains like Solana and Sui within HyperPlay.
Strategic Collaboration and Future Prospects
The collaboration between HyperPlay and MetaMask signifies a long-term partnership that enhances the functionality of digital asset custody solutions. HyperPlay’s founder, JacobC.eth, expressed enthusiasm about this relationship, emphasizing their joint mission to reshape the Web3 experience to fit the evolving gaming economy. He highlighted the shared goal of expanding accessibility and interoperability for all players, noting MetaMask’s focus on these aspects.
This partnership comes at a time of significant growth for MetaMask, which recently introduced features like MetaMask Snaps, enabling over 40 unique payment methods in 177 countries. The number of dapps integrated with MetaMask has increased substantially, solidifying its position as a leading self-custody platform globally. Kai Huang, senior product manager at MetaMask, stressed the importance of streamlining wallet interactions for both players and developers. He noted that blockchain gaming has the potential to transform monetization strategies and gameplay, but player adoption hinges on seamless user experiences.
HyperPlay’s Vision and Development
HyperPlay was launched through a collaboration between MetaMask and Game7, a DAO focused on building Web3 gaming infrastructure. The platform aims to establish interoperability as a standard for all Web3 games, helping developers reach new audiences and revenue streams. In June 2023, HyperPlay secured a $12 million Series A funding round, co-led by Griffin Gaming Partners and Bitkraft Ventures, with additional support from ConsenSys and Square Enix.
Unlike platforms like Apple and Steam, which charge 30% fees on game developers, HyperPlay imposes no fees on in-game economies or listing fees. HyperPlay plans to monetize optional convenience features for users, such as token swaps, bridging, or crypto on-ramping. The HyperPlay team, comprising 17 remote workers, is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas.
The collaboration between HyperPlay and MetaMask marks a significant advancement in the Web3 gaming space, offering a more integrated and user-friendly platform for discovering and managing blockchain games. This partnership is set to drive further innovation and adoption in the blockchain gaming industry, providing both players and developers with enhanced tools and opportunities.