Web3 Games: A Trenches Perspective with Mark Long, CEO of Shrapnel

In the realm of Web3 gaming, Mark Long, CEO of Shrapnel, spearheads a transformative approach, aiming to reimagine modding capabilities for players. Shrapnel, a blockchain-infused first-person shooter, empowers gamers with "modding on steroids," allowing them to seamlessly contribute and monetize their creations. Long emphasizes the paramount importance of creating exceptional games, regardless of the platform, while highlighting the unique challenges of Web3 development, such as meticulous database management and meticulous code auditing.

Web3 Games: A Perspective from the Trenches with Mark Long, CEO of Shrapnel

In the realm of digital entertainment, Web3 has emerged as a transformative force, promising to revolutionize the way games are developed, played, and monetized. However, despite its potential, the nascent industry has faced criticism for its lack of standout titles. To address this challenge, gaming veterans like Mark Long, CEO of Neon and the mastermind behind the highly anticipated first-person shooter "Shrapnel," are joining the Web3 revolution, bringing their expertise and a vision for the future of interactive entertainment.

In a candid interview, Long delves into the intricacies of creating a compelling Web3 game, the unique challenges presented by decentralization, and his vision for a sustainable and engaging gaming experience.

A Journey into the Heart of Shrapnel: Where Modification Meets Mayhem

As a lifelong enthusiast of first-person shooters, Long's passion for the genre is evident in his approach to Shrapnel. "I'm drawn to the adrenaline rush, the strategic thinking, and the camaraderie that comes with playing these games," he explains. "But what truly captivates me is the ability to modify and customize the experience, to make it my own."

This desire for personalization and player empowerment is the driving force behind Shrapnel. "We're creating a game where players have the freedom to unleash their creativity, to create their own maps, characters, weapons, and more," Long says. "We're giving them the same tools that professional game developers use, so they can push the boundaries of what's possible."

Embracing Web3: Empowering Players and Rewarding Ingenuity

The integration of Web3 technologies into Shrapnel elevates the concept of modding to new heights. "With Web3, we can attribute every contribution a player makes to the game," Long explains. "This means that players can earn rewards for creating and sharing their creations, fostering a sense of ownership and investment in the game's ecosystem."

By leveraging blockchain technology, Shrapnel provides players with unprecedented control over their in-game assets, allowing them to mint, sell, trade, or rent their creations. Players can monetize their contributions to the game, creating a sustainable and symbiotic relationship between developers and players.

Overcoming the Obstacles: Navigating the Web3 Development Landscape

While the promise of Web3 gaming is undeniable, Long acknowledges the challenges involved in its development. "Decentralization introduces complexities that traditional game development does not," he notes. "One wrong database tweak could result in players losing valuable assets, so we must be meticulous in our approach."

Another hurdle lies in preventing potential exploits that could destabilize the game's economy. "We're constantly scrutinizing our code, ensuring that it meets the highest security standards," Long says. "The additional layers of auditing and testing required for Web3 games slow down the development process, but it's essential to maintain the integrity and fairness of the game."

The Key to Sustainability: Quality Over Speculation

Addressing the concerns surrounding the boom-and-bust cycle of "play-to-earn" models, Long emphasizes the importance of prioritizing game quality over short-term financial incentives. "We're not interested in creating a game where players are solely motivated by profit," he says. "The longevity of any game depends on its ability to provide a fun and engaging experience."

Long believes that sustainable Web3 game economies rely on creating genuine utility for tokens, not purely speculative value. By encouraging players to use tokens for in-game purchases and rewards, developers can drive demand and stabilize the token's price.

Consensus 2024: A Gathering of Minds in the Heart of Crypto

As one of the industry's most respected conferences, Consensus 2024 serves as a platform for thought leaders and innovators to share their insights on the future of Web3. Long, a regular attendee, praises the event's rigorous curation and scholarly approach. "Consensus is one of the few conferences where I can engage in meaningful discussions about the latest developments and trends in Web3," he says.

Long's enthusiasm for Consensus extends beyond its educational value. "Last year, we unveiled Shrapnel to the world at Consensus," he recalls. "The response was overwhelming, with attendees eager to get their hands on the game. It was a humbling experience that solidified our belief in the potential of Web3 gaming."

A Glimpse into the Future: The Promise of Web3 and the Dawn of Shrapnel

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, Long believes that Web3 holds immense potential to transform the way games are created, played, and enjoyed. "Web3 empowers players like never before, giving them a voice and a stake in the development process," he says. "It's a new frontier where creativity and innovation will thrive."

With Shrapnel set to launch in 2025, Long and his team are at the forefront of this revolution. Their vision is to create a game that not only provides unparalleled entertainment but also empowers players to shape its future. As the industry eagerly awaits the arrival of Shrapnel, the gaming landscape is poised for a major shift, where Web3 technology will unlock a new era of player-driven experiences.