Why are in-person events important for Web3 games?

The importance of in-person events

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, in-person events (IRL) remain a vital platform for both traditional Web2 and Web3 games. The ability to interact with games live, meet developers, and network with industry professionals creates an environment where perceptions can be changed and new ideas can emerge.

The importance of player feedback

In-person events offer unique advantages that are hard to replicate online. One of the most important benefits is the ability to gather direct feedback from players. While there are remote game testing platforms, nothing compares to watching players interact with a game in real time. This immediate feedback can provide valuable insights into the appeal and accessibility of the game, allowing developers to make adjustments early in the development cycle.

Understanding the audience is another fundamental aspect that benefits from physical events. Interacting directly with players and observing their interactions with various games

allows to better understand their preferences and behaviors, which is essential to perfecting game development and marketing strategies.

Networking and Relationship Building

Physical events also play a fundamental role in expanding professional networks and building relationships. Despite the efficiency of remote work and online meetings, nothing replaces the value of face-to-face interactions. For many in the industry, Gamescom 2024 will be an opportunity to meet partners, suppliers, and collaborators in person for the first time. These encounters can deepen relationships and foster trust, which are crucial for long-term success in the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency gaming industry.

Additionally, attending large-scale events like Gamescom allows industry professionals to spot emerging trends and set ambitious goals. The magnitude of Gamescom, with its wide range of games and diverse audience, offers a unique perspective on the current state of the gaming industry. It is an environment where new ideas are born and innovative concepts gain momentum.

Avalanche Challenges Norms at GDC

At this year's GDC, Avalanche (represented by Ava Labs) made a big impact with its booth titled "Web3 Gaming Sucks". This provocative branding caught the attention and sparked conversations among attendees, both supporters and skeptics of web3 games. Ava Labs' decision to confront negative perceptions head-on highlighted the growing confidence in the quality and potential of web3 games.

The GDC event demonstrated that showcasing web3 games in an interactive live environment can effectively challenge outdated stereotypes.

The Avalanche booth showcased high-caliber games like Shrapnel, BloodLoop, and Providence, each providing AAA-level experiences. These titles attracted significant attention, allowing players to firsthand experience the advanced gameplay mechanics and sophisticated design that web3 games can offer.

Andrew "Coop" Cooper, senior marketing director at Ava Labs, emphasized the importance of this approach and noted that the decision to move forward with such a bold campaign was made only after considerable progress in game development and community support. By allowing traditional players to interact directly with these games, Ava Labs aimed to shift the conversation from skepticism to genuine interest and enthusiasm.

What to expect at Gamescom?

Looking ahead to Gamescom 2024, starting on August 21, promises to be another significant event for the blockchain gaming community. As one of the world's largest gaming trade fairs, Gamescom provides a platform where web3 games can reach a broader audience, including traditional players, developers, and the media.

Gamescom will feature comprehensive presentations, hands-on gaming opportunities, and networking events, all crucial for the continued growth and acceptance of web3 games. By directly engaging with the gaming community, developers can showcase advancements in web3 technology and game design, thus challenging any lingering misconceptions.

Samsung recently announced a new partnership with the Illuvium blockchain game, which will be showcased at

Gamescom 2024. This collaboration marks a significant step in the integration of blockchain games with cutting-edge technology, bringing Illuvium's three interconnected games (Overworld, Arena, and Zero) to Samsung's web3-enabled smart TVs.

Final Thoughts

As the cryptocurrency gaming industry continues to mature, the role of in-person events such as the Game Developers Conference (GDC) and the upcoming Gamescom 2024 becomes increasingly important. These gatherings not only provide a platform to showcase technological advancements but also foster meaningful interactions that help bridge the gap between traditional gamers and the emerging web3 ecosystem.

Avalanche's bold approach at GDC highlighted the power of direct engagement to challenge perceptions and drive the adoption of new gaming experiences. As Gamescom 2024 approaches, it promises to further underscore the importance of these events in shaping the future of gaming, offering both developers and players the opportunity to explore, connect, and innovate together. More information available here.