Play-to-earn blockchain games have disappointed, but some see new applications emerging

THE hype surrounding play-to-earn blockchain games has fizzled out, partly due to a fall in cryptocurrency values as well as fundamental issues with game play. Investments in the sector have also dipped, although the decline matches the trend seen across the startup scene.

Critics say the weakening appeal of these games illustrates the limited usefulness of blockchain to solve problems for gamers. But believers argue this is the natural life cycle of a technology, and better games will emerge.

Among the latter group is 21-year-old medical student Riky Candra, who started playing blockchain-powered games Axie Infinity and Job Tribes in January 2021.