Former Nintendo boss says NFTs are the future of gaming

There has been heightened debate about integrating blockchain technology and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) into the gaming space. While gaming companies have been willing to adopt these emerging technologies, gamers have not been open to the move, and they have vehemently opposed digital assets for various reasons.

Former Nintendo boss advocates for NFTs in gaming

The former boss of Nintendo, Reggie Fils-Aime, has advocated for blockchain technology and NFTs. This comes as gamers continue to oppose NFTs. Video game companies have been determined to find ways they can adopt these new technologies and monetize their activities. However, a massive backlash has been witnessed in companies that took the initiative.

Ubisoft is an example of a company that received much negativity with the implementation of gaming on its platform. The company recorded a massive exodus of gamers from the platform, and the sales and revenues dwindled. However, according to Fils-Aime, blockchain and NFTs will be a big part of gaming in the future.

Speaking during an SXSW panel, Fils-Aime said, “I say this as a player where I may have invested 50 hours into a game, 100 hours into a game, or there are some games where I’ve invested 300 hours… when I’m ready to move on to something else, wouldn’t it be great to monetize what I built?”

Fils-Aime uses “Animal Crossing: New Horizons” as one such example, saying that if he was done with the game, he could have a chance to sell the island and earn money for the time and effort spent.

Gamers are still opposed to NFTs

However, gamers are not supportive of the remarks made by Fils-Aime. In a Reddit post, fans outlined several reasons why NFTs and blockchain could not be used in games. A fan said that the main motive behind gaming was to relax and not have to worry about the price movements of different assets in the market.

Another player said it was still possible to monetize gaming platforms without using NFTs or blockchain, referring to the “Diablo 3” auction. One Reddit user named radewagon added that blockchain is stupid and bad for the environment. I get that you want money, but there are better ways. Continuing to make a non-blockchain Animal Crossing, for example. That’s a great way to make money.”

Fils-Aime also added that gamers needed to be involved in the decision to adopt blockchain and NFTs into gaming. He said that the initiative needed to consider the player’s perspective. Moreover, involving the players in the decision making would prevent backlash when such initiatives are launched. Looking at the backlash witnessed by video game companies, they are yet to figure out a way of involving the players.

Nintendo is one of the largest players in the non-NFT space. Players have invested heavily in gaming accessories to participate in several of Nintendo’s games. Mario Strikers: Battle League is set for release in a few weeks.