In the fast-evolving gaming industry, resistance to change has been a recurring theme. Just over a decade ago, Free-to-Play (F2P) games were met with skepticism—sometimes outright disdain. Critics labeled them cash grabs or unethical monetization schemes. Yet today, F2P models dominate, delivering value to both developers and players while proving many early critics wrong. Now we’re seeing history repeat itself with Web3 gaming.

Some voices in the industry—even respected mentors and advisors—dismiss blockchain gaming as a scam or a passing fad. It’s reminiscent of the “boomer mindset” that plagued F2P’s early days: a knee-jerk reaction to a new paradigm that challenges the status quo. The truth is, Web3 isn’t going away. It can reshape gaming as profoundly as F2P did—if we’re willing to explore its possibilities.

Wake Up, Boomers!

If you’re dismissing Web3 outright, you’re the new boomer of the gaming world. Just like those who scoffed at F2P, you risk sliding into irrelevance in a rapidly evolving industry. Time to shed the outdated mindset and look at what’s actually possible.

The Myths Around Web3 Gaming

Let’s address the elephant in the room: the accusations of scams and cash grabs. It’s true the early Web3 landscape saw bad actors chasing quick profits. But this isn’t unique to blockchain—F2P faced similar criticism early on. Many first-wave F2P games used predatory tactics; over time, standards matured and player-centric hits (Fortnite, Genshin Impact) showed how to do it right.

Blockchain gaming is no different. Yes, opportunists existed—but the technology isn’t the problem. Web3’s core promise—true ownership, decentralized economies, player-driven innovation—is sound. As the space matures, developers will harness it ethically and effectively to enhance player experience.

The Real Promise of Web3 Gaming

Web3 isn’t about slapping NFTs onto old designs. It’s about revolutionizing ownership, enabling decentralized economies, and fostering deeper community participation. Imagine in-game achievements with real persistence and value, assets you truly own and can trade, and communities with a genuine say in how games evolve.

Why the “Boomer Mindset” Is Holding Us Back

Rejecting Web3 doesn’t just limit a technology—it limits careers, creativity, and growth. Developers who refused to adapt to F2P often got left behind. Dismissing Web3 today risks the same fate in a market projected to reach $460B by 2030.

Gaming thrives on innovation. Blockchain isn’t a novelty; it’s a platform for new mechanics and economies. Games like Axie Infinity and Illuvium only scratch the surface of what becomes possible with owned assets and decentralized markets. Writing this off isn’t just short-sighted—it’s counterproductive.

Lessons from F2P: The Case for Web3

F2P was a technological and cultural shift. It took years to develop sustainable, ethical monetization and win players over. Web3 is at a similar crossroads. Here’s why it deserves a chance:

• New revenue streams for developers: Transaction fees on P2P trading, tokenized economies, and royalties on secondary sales.

• Enhanced community engagement: DAO-like governance gives players real stakes in a game’s evolution.

• Scalable ecosystems: Blockchain economies can hold real-world value beyond box sales or microtransactions.

• True ownership for players: Assets aren’t locked in centralized servers—players can trade, sell, or even create within game economies.

• Reduced fraud & greater transparency: Smart contracts and open ledgers increase trust on both sides.

• Cross-game interoperability: Assets can transcend single titles, enabling shared economies.

• Transparency & security: On-chain records reduce fraud and harden transactions.

• Lower monetization backlash risk: Clear, player-driven economies reduce accusations of unfairness.

Promising Projects Leading the Charge

Forward-thinking titles show what’s possible: Shrapnel (AAA FPS), Illuvium (open-world RPG), and Off The Grid (Gunzilla) are proving blockchain can enhance gameplay without compromising the core experience. These projects push the boundaries of decentralized gaming.

Addressing the Elephants in the Room

Critics point to environmental and regulatory concerns. Both are being addressed. Proof-of-Stake chains have slashed energy use. On the legal side, compliance-first infrastructure (like what Triolith Games AB is building) helps studios navigate frameworks such as MiCA in the EU and securities/AML rules in the U.S., making launches safer for players and devs.

Moving Forward: Embracing Web3

Gaming prospers when we challenge conventions. As F2P overcame backlash, Web3 can rise above controversies—with open minds and real experimentation. Don’t treat blockchain as a threat; treat it as an opportunity to innovate, empower players, and build better games.

To developers, publishers, and professionals: don’t let fear of the unknown make you obsolete. History shows the adapters win. Stop being a “boomer” about Web3 and start exploring what it can actually do.

A Call to Action

To skeptics and naysayers alike: evolve. Engage with Web3, test blockchain games, and help shape this new frontier.

The future of gaming is here—and it’s built on Web3. Will you be a pioneer or a relic? The choice is yours.