Web3 battle royale OverTrip have added a major update with the introduction of its Deathmatch mode, allowing players to engage in non-stop combat without the usual downtime.
Unlike the traditional Battle Royale mode, where players compete for the last spot, the new Deathmatch mode ensures a continuous, action-packed experience by enabling instant respawns after death.
As players rack up kills, they are rewarded with $TRIP tokens as incentives.
Source: OverTrip
What is OverTrip?
Launched in December 2024 on the Epic Games Store, OverTrip is a third-person competitive shooter developed by GGXYZ Gaming Studio.
In the game, players participate in fast-paced combat, where they can wager tokens like $TRIP, $COQ, and $BRETT based on their performance. The $TRIP token operates on the Solana blockchain, whilst related NFTs are minted on the Ethereum network.
OverTrip stands out by offering a real-money wagering system, where players can bet on their skill in different modes.
Source: OverTrip
What else is new with the recent update?
The recent Deathmatch mode update allows players to respawn instantly after being eliminated. Unlike the Battle Royale mode, which has a set number of players competing for survival, the Deathmatch mode allows for continuous play, encouraging fast-paced, aggressive strategies. A standout feature of this mode is the reward system where players are granted $TRIP tokens for each confirmed kill.
Alongside Deathmatch mode, OverTrip has also rolled out several other updates to enhance gameplay such as private lobbies, enabling players to create matches with customisable wagering rules. The game’s Battle Royale mode has also been expanded, now supporting up to 50 players in a single match, up from the previous limit of 20.
In addition, new cosmetic options such as skins have been introduced, giving players more ways to personalise their characters. For players who have participated in earlier campaigns, the Trippy Terminal dashboard has been launched, allowing users to track their earned $TRIP tokens and rewards over time.
Published: February 06, 2025 at 12:17 pm Updated: February 06, 2025 at 12:17 pm
by Ana
Edited and fact-checked:
February 06, 2025 at 12:17 pm
To improve your local-language experience, sometimes we employ an auto-translation plugin. Please note auto-translation may not be accurate, so read original article for precise information.
In Brief
Cysic has launched an Android-based verifier application to streamline zero-knowledge proof verification, aiming to increase participation in the ZK ecosystem and maintain efficiency and accessibility.
Cysic has introduced an Android-based verifier application to simplify the verification of zero-knowledge proofs, which is an important development in the crypto sector. Cysic hopes that by making this procedure available on mobile devices, it will encourage more people to participate in the ZK ecosystem while also keeping verification efficient and accessible.
The Impact of Zero-Knowledge Proofs on Blockchain
Zero-knowledge proofs have become a critical component of privacy-preserving blockchain applications. This cryptographic approach enables one party to demonstrate the authenticity of a statement to another without disclosing any further information. The method keeps sensitive data hidden while yet allowing for verification, making it especially useful for financial applications, identity verification, and safe transactions.
Zero-knowledge proofs, first offered as a theoretical notion in the 1980s, have grown more practical in recent years. Many blockchain networks use them to improve transaction efficiency and anonymity. Ethereum’s Layer 2 scaling solutions, for example, use ZK proofs to validate transactions while minimizing congestion on the main blockchain. Despite these benefits, acceptance of ZK technology has been hampered by the difficulty of verification and the hardware needs associated with traditional proof validation methods.
Cysic’s Approach to Mobile-based Verification
The release of Cysic’s verifier application overcomes some of the most critical adoption hurdles by allowing users to validate ZK proofs straight from their Android devices. This mobile-based solution reduces the need for specific gadgets and technical skills, making verification available to a larger range of users.
The program has an easy-to-use interface, allowing users to swiftly verify proof. The method consists of downloading the program, inputting wallet information, and hitting a button to begin verification.
Beyond its simplicity, the software is designed for speed and efficiency. Verification times average 62.4 milliseconds, accounting for only 2% of the overall time needed to perform a verification activity. This degree of performance means that users may participate in proof validation with minimal latency. The application is also resource-efficient, using just 200 MB of memory for each verification operation.
Incentive Structure for Users
Cysic’s verifier program does more than just ease verification; it also provides an incentive participation framework. Users may earn rewards by using the software in the background and sending their verification findings to the Cysic Network.
The passive aspect of this earning approach makes it tempting. Users may join with minimum effort since the program requires no active interaction beyond the first setup. This concept is consistent with wider developments in the crypto market, as decentralized networks increasingly rely on dispersed participation to ensure security and efficiency.
The Rising Importance of Accessible ZK Technology
The emergence of a mobile verifier is crucial, especially as privacy-focused blockchain applications gain popularity. Decentralized finance (DeFi), digital identification systems, and other Web3 applications are increasingly reliant on ZK technology to safeguard user data and improve transaction efficiency. Despite these advantages, widespread adoption has been hampered by the assumption that cryptographic verification is excessively complicated or resource-intensive for average users.
Beyond individual users, an increase in active verifiers might help the whole blockchain ecosystem. Increased involvement improves the security and decentralization of ZK networks, guaranteeing that verification is resilient and scalable. Cysic’s verifier helps to build a more resilient cryptographic infrastructure by enabling a wider variety of parties to interact with ZK technology.
The Impact of Web2 and Web3 Integration
The growing popularity of blockchain applications in mainstream digital spaces emphasizes the need for solutions that bridge the gap between Web2 and Web3 users. Recent developments, like as the rise in popularity of apps like Moonshot following the debut of Trump’s memecoin, show that new audiences are becoming involved with crypto-related technology. Many of these users have little to no prior experience with blockchain systems, but they are drawn to platforms that provide concrete benefits and incentives.
To keep these new users beyond short-term trends, crypto apps must offer genuine engagement options that go beyond speculative investments. Cysic’s verifier application provides a practical use case in which users may contribute to a privacy-focused ecosystem while receiving benefits.
Cysic provides an easy entry point to ZK verification, acting as a doorway for people who may not have previously explored cryptographic validation. The ability to interact with blockchain technology without requiring substantial technical expertise or costly hardware spending facilitates Web2 users’ transition to Web3 settings.
Future of Mobile-Based Cryptographic Verification
The release of Cysic’s verifier app represents a larger move toward mobile-friendly cryptographic tools. With the growth of blockchain adoption, the demand for efficient and user-friendly verification solutions is projected to rise. Mobile-based techniques provide a scalable alternative to increase participation, especially in areas where desktop-based verification may be impractical owing to hardware restrictions or accessibility issues.
Future advancements in mobile cryptographic verification may include extended support for new ZK proof types, interaction with decentralized apps, and improved verifier incentive mechanisms. As blockchain networks evolve, the success of mobile-based solutions like Cysic’s verifier could encourage additional improvements in this market.
Disclaimer
In line with the Trust Project guidelines, please note that the information provided on this page is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as legal, tax, investment, financial, or any other form of advice. It is important to only invest what you can afford to lose and to seek independent financial advice if you have any doubts. For further information, we suggest referring to the terms and conditions as well as the help and support pages provided by the issuer or advertiser. MetaversePost is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice.
About The Author
Victoria is a writer on a variety of technology topics including Web3.0, AI and cryptocurrencies. Her extensive experience allows her to write insightful articles for the wider audience.
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Victoria d’Este
Victoria is a writer on a variety of technology topics including Web3.0, AI and cryptocurrencies. Her extensive experience allows her to write insightful articles for the wider audience.
Dancing on Ice star Chris Taylor is recovering from multiple minor injuries he sustained ahead of the series, which were not helped when he later got in a car accident after his live debut.
The Love Island alum, who is contesting in the latest series of the ice-skating competition, suffered a hiccup over the weekend when his dancing partner Vanessa Bauer unexpectedly quit the show after a severe injury.
Chris was quickly partnered with Robin Johnstone to ensure his journey on the Dancing On Ice continues. However, he’s yet to fully recover from the shocking incident that occurred after his first live show.
Chris Taylor survived the car accident with a ‘lot of minor injuries’ (Credit: Not My Bagg/YouTube)
Dancing on Ice star Chris Taylor was in a car accident
While appearing on Joe Baggs’ Not My Bagg podcast, Chris revealed he was involved in a car accident. Luckily, he survived with “a lot of minor injuries” when the car drove into his right-hand side.
Talking about his recovery, Chris said: “I have to go to physio every week, which is nice. I get a bit of a massage. Sometimes I’m making it up and I’m not in pain. sometimes I just want a bit of a break.”
He continued: “My arm goes dead. Not in a fun way or a good way, it just goes dead. During training, I can’t lift anymore, so they have to fix that, yeah. I’m holding it together – I’m basically held together by sellotape at the minute.”
Chris revealed he met with the accident just after his first live show on Dancing on Ice. Yet, he managed to deliver a powerful performance the next time he was on the ice.
It also comes after Chris and Robin lost their footing and fell onto the ice during Sunday’s show after being paired with one another.
Chris was originally paired with Vanessa (Credit: ITV)
His partner Vanessa Bauer quits Dancing On Ice
The 28-year-old abruptly exited the show after damaging her ligament during rehearsals.
In an Instagram video, Vanessa revealed that she won’t be continuing for the rest of the season as she’s prioritising her health.
Vanessa had a “little accident” backstage during rehearsals and did not realise its impact until she had an MRI. The reports revealed that she had “completely torn” her ligament. She described it as a “grade three sprain injury and a major grade two sprain injury.”
The pro dancer wrote in her caption: “Thank you so much for your support this season and over the past 8 years! There is so much really exciting stuff happening year and I’m looking forward to being properly healed for it! I’ll be there supporting you every step along the way.”
Read more: Charlie Brooks ‘splits from boyfriend’ as Dancing On Ice ‘curse’ strikes again
So how do you like Chris on Dancing On Ice? You can leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know.
As the crypto market faces a wave of volatility, both Cardano and Solana have plummeted, posting major losses in the last 7 days and beyond. Meanwhile, Panshibi ($SHIBI) is quickly emerging as a standout among investors looking to diversify their portfolios. This powerful meme coin brings together real utility with meme coin principles to create a unique and engaging ecosystem. Analysts are expecting big gains for the asset in 2025, as the presale continues to gather momentum. So how will Cardano, Solana and Panshibi stack up against each other in Q1?
What’s Up With The Solana Price Today?
For the Solana price, it has been rough lately, with the asset posting a 12% loss in the last 7 days. This has brought Solana’s value right down to $203.89, now teasing the $200 mark. After its massive 2024 rally, traders are wondering if it can hold key support levels or if another dip is coming. Tech-wise, however, Solana’s still pushing ahead—the recent release of Firedancer, a next-gen validator client, has made the network even faster and more resilient. There is also Bitcoin integration underway, pulling BTC holders into Solana’s booming DeFi scene.
Cardano (ADA) Unveils Ambitious Roadmap For 2025
Cardano’s got big plans for 2025, but the price action isn’t looking great right now. Cardano (ADA) is sitting at $0.7491, down 19% this week, with traders eyeing $0.70 as key support. Despite the dip, the dev team is pushing ahead with a move towards full decentralized governance, where the community calls the shots. They’re also rolling out partner chains for better scalability and even bridging with Bitcoin to bring BTC users into Cardano’s DeFi scene. If adoption picks up, Cardano could make a comeback—but with the market as shaky as ever, it’s still a risky bet,
Panshibi Reinvents the Wheel for Meme Coins
While many meme coins rely exclusively on hype, Panshibi is delivering long-term value through a fully interactive and rewarding ecosystem.
Holders don’t just passively wait for price movement; they can participate in AI-driven challenges, complete quests and earn additional tokens in an innovative play-to-earn structure that rewards engagement. This approach ensures continued investor interest and strengthens the community.
Security remains one of the biggest concerns in the meme coin space, with many projects facing issues related to poor liquidity management and lack of developer accountability. Panshibi is setting a new benchmark for trust and transparency. A full security audit and liquidity locks for the team mitigate risks of early sell-offs.
These security measures distinguish Panshibi from typical meme coin projects, providing a level of confidence rarely seen in this space.
Beyond its financial incentives, Panshibi is aligning itself with a meaningful cause—panda conservation. A portion of project funds is dedicated to wildlife rescue efforts, habitat restoration and conservation education initiatives.
This mission is attracting a growing number of investors who want their crypto holdings to support global causes. As environmental responsibility becomes an important consideration in the blockchain industry, Panshibi is proving that meme coins can have an impact beyond the digital world.
Panshibi Presale Closes In On $590,000 Raised
The Panshibi ($SHIBI) presale continues to gain traction, with almost $590,000 raised in just under two weeks. The project’s unique approach, pairing meme coin culture with real utility, has prompted analysts to predict a 1,200% price surge before exchange listings. For those who want to be a part of the next big meme coin, Panshibi is impossible to ignore.
Published: February 06, 2025 at 11:00 am Updated: February 06, 2025 at 10:36 am
by Ana
Edited and fact-checked:
February 06, 2025 at 11:00 am
To improve your local-language experience, sometimes we employ an auto-translation plugin. Please note auto-translation may not be accurate, so read original article for precise information.
In Brief
Kite AI announced the testnet launch of the first foundational AI Layer 1 blockchain on Avalanche, introducing a specialized environment for running AI tools, models, and data.
Provider of decentralized AI infrastructure, Kite AI, announced the launch of the first foundational AI Layer 1 blockchain on Avalanche. This testnet launch introduces a specialized environment designed for the decentralized and transparent operation of AI tools, models, and data.
Kite AI is built to support AI development on blockchain technology, overcoming the limitations of traditional blockchains that struggle with scalability, inefficient data processing, and centralized control over AI workflows. The platform provides a fair coordination layer for AI contributors—including data providers, model builders, and autonomous agents—allowing them to collaborate while maintaining ownership and receiving appropriate compensation for their work.
At the heart of Kite AI’s infrastructure is the Proof of Attributed Intelligence (PoAI) consensus mechanism, which ensures transparent attribution and incentivization of AI contributions. This approach promotes decentralized AI development while addressing challenges related to data accessibility, attribution, and computational efficiency. By leveraging Avalanche’s scalable infrastructure, Kite AI enables high-speed processing of AI workloads, allowing developers to create and deploy AI-driven applications without the limitations typically found in traditional blockchain systems.
Kite AI integrates four core components to foster a decentralized AI economy: PoAI, which tracks and rewards contributions across data, models, and agents to ensure transparency and fair incentives, while the decentralized data access engine provides secure, transparent data access while enabling data providers to retain ownership during AI workflows. The composable AI ecosystem with customizable subnets allows for flexible governance and collaboration within specialized environments for AI developers, model builders, and data providers, and the decentralized, portable AI memory ensures long-term attribution and scalability for AI models by offering privacy-protected memory storage for billions of interactions.
Kite AI’s infrastructure is optimized for AI, data analytics, and decentralized applications (dApps), presenting developers and institutions with a new way to engage with blockchain-powered AI tools.
Kite AI: Advancing AI Innovation On Avalanche
As a member of the selection committee for the Avalanche InfraBUILDL(AI) program, Kite AI plays an active role in promoting the growth of the AI ecosystem on Avalanche. This collaboration seeks to establish Avalanche as a leading blockchain for AI applications by incorporating scalable, decentralized AI infrastructure.
“We’re proud to bring the first purpose-built Layer 1 for AI to Avalanche. Our testnet launch not only advances blockchain AI innovations but also introduces the next generation of AI-driven infrastructure for Web3 builders,” said Chi Zhang, CEO of Kite AI, in a written statement. “With Kite AI, we’re unlocking a programmable AI value chain where developers and institutions can seamlessly build, collaborate, and scale,” he added.
Kite AI’s testnet is now available for developers and institutions interested in exploring blockchain applications powered by AI.
Disclaimer
In line with the Trust Project guidelines, please note that the information provided on this page is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as legal, tax, investment, financial, or any other form of advice. It is important to only invest what you can afford to lose and to seek independent financial advice if you have any doubts. For further information, we suggest referring to the terms and conditions as well as the help and support pages provided by the issuer or advertiser. MetaversePost is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice.
About The Author
Alisa, a dedicated journalist at the MPost, specializes in cryptocurrency, zero-knowledge proofs, investments, and the expansive realm of Web3. With a keen eye for emerging trends and technologies, she delivers comprehensive coverage to inform and engage readers in the ever-evolving landscape of digital finance.
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Alisa Davidson
Alisa, a dedicated journalist at the MPost, specializes in cryptocurrency, zero-knowledge proofs, investments, and the expansive realm of Web3. With a keen eye for emerging trends and technologies, she delivers comprehensive coverage to inform and engage readers in the ever-evolving landscape of digital finance.
French electronic consumer brand METAVISIO — THOMSON Computing recently launched its first NFT collection as part of its web3 laptop initiative in partnership with io.finnet named ‘Metavisio.’
The collection consisted of 1,500 collectibles sold out in under five seconds during Phase 2 of its release and quickly rose to the number one spot on OpenSea for Base. A total of 1,052 NFTs were claimed through guaranteed spots by members of popular crypto communities such as Memeland, CyberKongz, Mocaverse, and DeGods.
Following the sellout, these NFTs are now trading with the floor price currently sitting at 0.0035 ETH.
Source: Metavisio
What is Metavisio?
Metavisio is a new web3-enabled laptop developed by METAVISIO, a brand under THOMSON Computing.
“Metavisio will combine traditional computing power with blockchain-native features, including integrated cold storage wallets and a proprietary web3 operating system,” said Stephan Français, CEO and founder of Metavisio — THOMSON Computing.
This laptop integrates blockchain-native features such as a cold storage wallet for secure cryptocurrency management, aiming to reduce reliance on centralised exchanges, supporting assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more. It supports dApps and comes with a proprietary operating system designed to bridge conventional computing with web3 technology.
Scheduled for release in Q2 2025, the Metavisio laptop will offer decentralised functionality, a THOMSON Computing wallet, and enhanced security with private satellite internet.
Source: Metavisio
What are the benefits to holding a Metavisio NFT?
Holders of the Metavisio NFT collection are entitled to several exclusive benefits including access to cryptocurrency-based rewards, ongoing token airdrops, and a 5% discount on various products at THOMSON Computing stores worldwide including Thomson NEO laptop series and tablets.
Additionally, NFT holders will be eligible for prizes, including the chance to win the first web3 laptops and exclusive raffles featuring a $20,000 prize pool of electronics.
Beyond retail benefits, the NFTs also unlock long-term utility by granting access to enhanced CPU and GPU computing power, positioning holders for further advantages within METAVISIO’s evolving web3 ecosystem.
While it has been a decade since a brand new Castlevania game graced us with its presence, the brand has continued to exist in the form of re-releases and the Netflix show. But now it seems like a new game might be on the horizon.
At least, that’s according to Portuguese website Geekinout which claims to have spoken to sources with knowledge of Konami’s plans. Below is a quoute from the website, but please note it was acquired via Google translate, which may not always be 100% accurate.
“Geekinout.pt learned, through sources with knowledge of Konami’s plans, that a new AAA game in the Castlevania series is in development and will be officially announced in 2025.”
Some games that will be revealed/announced this year:
Tomb Raider (new AAA main title)Fire Emblem Remake Nier Automata sequel Castlevania (AAA)EA FC 26 (😉)
Different reliable sources, fairly confident. pic.twitter.com/2kXtQhDylA
— Daniel Camilo (@DanielOlimac) February 6, 2025
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js
The exact source is up for debate, though, because at the bottom of the page Geekinout features a tweet from Daniel Camilo, another industry insider. In his tweet, Daniel has posted a list of titles he expects to be revealed or announced this year, citing “different reliable sources, reasonably confident.” On his list, which includes a new Tomb Raider and a Nier Automata sequel, Daniel mentions a AAA Castlevania game. Is this the source Geekinout is referring to, or is their source anonymous?
This isn’t the first time we’ve heard about a potential new Castlevania game, either. In 2021, for example, GameRant reported on rumours that Sony and Konami were discussing a potential new game in the series.
God of War: Ragnarok director Eric Williams also told the Kinda Funny crew in 2022 that he’d love to make a Castlevania game. Of course, that’s just a wish, but in conjunction with the reports of Sony talking to Konami it’s interesting. And Sony has been growing closer to Konami over the past year or two.
But who would be developing a new Castlevania? Mercury Steam were the last studio to release a new Castlevania experience in the form of the poorly received Lords of Shadow 2. Currently Mercury Steam is working on two projects: Metroid 6 for Nintendo, and something called Project Iron for 505 Games. It seems unlikely the studio would be begin to support working on a another triple-A title at the same time.
Maybe…FromSoft? Would people like a Souls-like Castlevania game?
GeForce NOW celebrates its fifth anniversary this February with a lineup of five major releases. The month kicks off with Kingdom Come: Deliverance II. Prepare for a journey back in time — Warhorse Studios’ newest medieval role-playing game (RPG) comes to GeForce NOW on its launch day, bringing 15th-century Bohemia to devices everywhere.
Experience the highly anticipated sequel’s stunning open world at GeForce RTX quality in the cloud, available to stream across devices at launch. It leads seven games joining the GeForce NOW library of over 2,000 titles.
Chainmail Meets the Cloud
The fate of a kingdom rests in your hands.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II continues the epic, open-world RPG saga set in the brutal and realistic medieval world of Bohemia. Continue the story of Henry, a blacksmith’s son turned warrior, as he navigates political intrigue and warfare. Explore a world twice the size of the original, whether in the bustling streets of Kuttenberg or the picturesque Bohemian Paradise.
The game builds on its predecessor’s realistic combat system by introducing crossbows, early firearms and a host of new weapons, while refining its already sophisticated melee combat mechanics. Navigate a complex narrative full of difficult decisions, forge alliances with powerful figures, engage in tactical large-scale battles and face moral dilemmas that impact both the journey and fate of the kingdom — all while experiencing a historically rich environment faithful to the period.
The game also features enhanced graphics powered by GeForce RTX, making it ideal to stream on GeForce NOW even without a game-ready rig. Experience all the medieval action at up to 4K and 120 frames per second with eight-hour sessions using an Ultimate membership, or 1440p and 120 fps with six-hour sessions using a Performance membership. Enjoy seamless gameplay, stunning visuals and smooth performance throughout the vast, immersive world of Bohemia.
Sound the Alarm for New Games
Move out the way!
Experience every aspect of a paramedic’s life in Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator from Nacon Games. Quickly reach the accident site, take care of the injured and apply first aid. Each accident is different. It’s up to players to adapt and make the right choices while being fast and efficient. Explore three different Districts containing a variety of environments. At each accident site, analyze the situation to precisely determine the right treatment for each patient. Build a reputation, unlock new tools and get assigned to new districts with thrilling new situations.
Look for the following games available to stream in the cloud this week:
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II (New release on Steam, Feb. 4)
Sid Meier’s Civilization VII (New release on Steam and Epic Games Store, Advanced access on Feb. 5)
Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator (New Release on Steam, Feb. 6)
SWORN (New release on Steam, Feb. 6)
Alan Wake (Xbox, available on the Microsoft Store)
Ashes of the Singularity: Escalation (Xbox, available on the Microsoft Store)
Far Cry: New Dawn (New release on PC Game Pass, Feb. 4)
What are you planning to play this weekend? Let us know on X or in the comments below.
Ultimate medieval game weapon – go! ⚔️🏹
— 🌩️ NVIDIA GeForce NOW (@NVIDIAGFN) February 5, 2025
Adin Ross and Richard “FaZe Banks” Bengtson have revealed their plans to create a custom server for Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6) that integrates cryptocurrency into the game’s economy.
The duo, known for their influence in the gaming and streaming communities, intends to launch the server with its own cryptocurrency, providing a new type of in-game economy.
However, despite their ambitious plans, history suggests that Rockstar Games, the developer of the GTA franchise, is unlikely to allow the use of cryptocurrency in the game.
Source: Ryan on X (@scubaryan_)
A Crypto-Powered ‘GTA 6’ Server
In a recent livestream, Adin Ross shared the vision for a new GTA 6 server, stating that it would be entirely focused on cryptocurrency. He and FaZe Banks plan to create a server that would not only incorporate a new digital coin but also promote a crypto-based in-game economy. Ross described the server as potentially the largest of its kind.
FaZe Banks further explained that the server would rely heavily on the new coin for transactions, giving players the opportunity to participate in a decentralised economy.
Both Ross and Banks are planning significant financial investment to ensure the server’s success, positioning the project as a groundbreaking development in the gaming space. However, the plans for this crypto-fueled GTA 6 server could be hampered by Rockstar’s historical stance on cryptocurrency.
Source: Rockstar Games
Rockstar Games’ History with Crypto Bans
In 2022, Rockstar Games published an article clarifying its position on the use of cryptocurrencies and NFTs in GTA Online and Red Dead Online. The company prohibited the integration of these technologies into player-run servers, citing concerns over their impact on the game’s economy and user experience.
This decision led to the closure of several fan-made GTA servers that had introduced crypto and NFT-based assets. Notably, rapper Lil Durk’s The Trenches server, which featured NFTs, was forced to shut down after Rockstar’s parent company, Take-Two Interactive, issued legal notices to those operating the server. The crackdown suggests that if Ross and Banks move forward with their plans, they will likely face legal obstacles from Rockstar, which has consistently maintained a policy of limiting crypto use in its games.
Despite Rockstar’s firm stance, there are ongoing rumors suggesting that GTA 6 might represent a change in the company’s attitude toward cryptocurrency. Speculation has surfaced that the upcoming title could introduce in-game cryptocurrency rewards or allow for crypto payments. However, these rumors remain unconfirmed, and Rockstar has yet to provide any official comment on the matter.
Additionally, Take-Two Interactive, the parent company of Rockstar, has expressed interest in blockchain technology through its acquisition of mobile game publisher Zynga in 2022. Zynga has been involved in the development of NFT-based games, which could suggest that Take-Two is exploring opportunities in the web3 space, though it is unclear whether this will have any impact on the GTA franchise.
Whilst it is uncertain whether Rockstar’s policies will evolve, the launch of GTA 6 will be a key moment in determining whether the company is willing to allow crypto integration. Ross and Banks’ plans may ultimately depend on Rockstar’s stance when the game is released later this year.
Bandai Namco appears to have lost over 100 staff since April 2024, according to online records of the Japanese Pension service. These staff have departed without much fanfare, after a rough patch for the video game giant.
First discovered and reported by Amber V at Automaton Media, 117 developers have left the company – and as a result the people under Bandai Namco’s pension payroll scheme – in a mere 10 months. Which teams these staff belonged to, and the game’s they were working on, remain a mystery.
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Bandai Namco have struggled in the video game department in some regard within that time. Blue Protocol, the company’s latest MMORPG release, was taken offline following a release that fell below expectations. This in turn cancelled the Western release of the game, which was to be published by Amazon. Some Blue Protocol developers split off the from the company have opted to keep the spirit of the game alive with Blue Protocol: Star Resonance, a spiritual successor to the game being developed under Tencent subsidiary BOKURA, bringing a portion of the Blue Protocol team along for the ride.
Alongside the closure of Blue Protocol, Bandai Namco Online was dissolved and incorporated into Bandai Namco proper. Staff from Bandai Namco online, caught in this limbo between projects, may well have made up a sizable portion of these departures. However, given there are no official announcements or list of departing employees between now and April last year, no one knows for sure.
While one could intuit a negative outlook for the company based on this stat, looking at recent official financial reports for Bandai Namco paints a far different picture. In the February 5 report, the company announced significant growth in operating profit compared to the same time last year. This is linked to big releases like Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero which only recently passed 5 million copies sold. So it seems like company-wide, things are going well at least.
What do you think the cause of these departures are? Are you like me, attributing the loss to big misses like Blue Protocol, or can this be blamed on something else? Let us know below!
Source: OverTrip
Source: Metavisio
Source: Ryan on X (@scubaryan_)
