Web3 gaming is changing the gaming world, bringing together traditional experiences with blockchain technology. For many, though, figuring out how to get started can feel overwhelming. In fact, a recent survey found that 32% of traditional gamers haven’t tried Web3 games simply because they “have no idea where to start,” and 11% were put off by the complexities of cryptocurrency setups and wallets.

Despite these challenges, the Web3 gaming industry is growing fast. Nansen’s Web3 Gaming report said the market will grow 68% CAGR from 2024 to 2030. With innovations now making the experience smoother, it’s a great time to get in. This guide will take you through everything you need to know to get started with Web3 gaming, from wallets and tools to games and safety.

What is Web3 Gaming?

Web3 gaming is a new kind of gaming powered by blockchain technology. It lets players truly own in-game items, like NFTs or tokens, that can be traded or sold outside the game. Many Web3 games also offer play-to-earn features, where players can earn real rewards while enjoying great gameplay. It’s about more freedom, ownership, and value for your time spent gaming.

Traditional Onboarding: Setting Up a Crypto Wallet

If you’re new to Web3 gaming, the first thing you’ll need is a cryptocurrency wallet. This digital tool stores your in-game assets like NFTs and tokens.

Quick Steps to Set Up a Crypto Wallet

1. Choose a Wallet: Pick a trusted wallet like MetaMask that works with the game you want to play.
2. Create a Wallet: Setting it up is simple. Follow the app’s instructions, save your recovery phrase (a set of secret words you’ll need if you ever lose access), and create a strong password.
3. Fund Your Wallet: Purchase cryptocurrency through an exchange like Binance or Coinbase and transfer it to your wallet. The crypto you need to purchase depends on the blockchain or platform the game is on. Many Web3 platforms also have their own tokens.
4. Connect to Games: This part is usually easy. When you visit the game’s website or marketplace, look for a “Connect Wallet” button. Click it, pick your wallet provider, and approve the connection through a pop-up in the wallet app.

If that sounds tricky, don’t worry—Web3 platforms are finding ways to make the process easier for everyone.

Innovations Simplifying Onboarding

If setting up a crypto wallet still seems like a hurdle, platforms like Nakamoto Games and Immutable have you covered.

Immutable Passport

With over 3 million signups as of October 2024, Immutable Passport is becoming a popular choice among gamers. It consolidates your digital identity across multiple games, so you don’t need a separate wallet for each game. Plus, it supports third-party marketplaces so you can trade and sell your in-game assets—what makes Web3 gaming so cool.

How to Create an Immutable Passport Account

Immutable Passport skips traditional wallet setups, making Web3 gaming feel as familiar as Web2. Here’s how it works:

1. Sign Up: Visit the Immutable website and use Google or Apple for a quick and easy login.
2. Link Your Wallets: Connect existing wallets like MetaMask to manage your assets if needed.
3. Explore Games: Discover supported games and marketplaces that recognize your Passport.
4. Manage Assets: View and transfer NFTs or cryptocurrency easily within the Passport dashboard.

The $NAKA Multicoin Wallet

Another solution is the $NAKA Multicoin Wallet from Nakamoto Games. It simplifies the setup process and is designed for gamers, offering:

• Cross-Platform Support: Works on macOS, iOS, Windows, and Android via Telegram.
• Ease of Use: Makes transactions and asset management easy for both beginners and pros.
• Quick Onboarding: Removes much of the confusion new users face.

Gaming on Telegram

Telegram games are attracting a massive amount of players, with average session times increasing from 2.8 minutes to 6.7 minutes. This longer playtime and higher retention show that Telegram is delivering a gaming experience players keep coming back to.

Telegram is making waves as a Web3 gaming hub, offering an easy way to jump into blockchain games and also earn rewards and airdrops. Here’s how to get started:

1. Download Telegram: Install the app on your device and create an account.
2. Find Games: Search for Web3 games like Catizen or GAMEE in the Telegram app.
3. Set Up a Wallet: Many Telegram-based games let you create a wallet directly in-app. Follow their setup instructions.
4. Start Playing: Jump into the game, explore, and engage with its features.

Highlighting Web3 Gaming’s Best

One of the standout titles in Web3 gaming is Off the Grid, developed by Gunzilla Games and named Gam3 Game of the Year 2024. This cyberpunk-themed battle royale blends intense combat with a narrative-rich experience. Directed by Neill Blomkamp (District 9), it’s available in early access on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.

Another game worth checking out is My Neighbor Alice, a blockchain-based world where anyone can join in to build and create in the Lummelunda Archipelago. You’ll need a Web3 wallet for this one—once you’re in, you can buy or claim land, download the launcher, and start exploring, farming, and building in this vibrant world.

Exploring Free-to-Play Modes

Not ready to buy NFTs or cryptocurrency? No worries. Many Web3 games have free-to-play modes, so you can get into the core gameplay without spending a cent. For example, you can play the hugely popular Gods Unchained for free, but you’ll need to download the game first and connect an Immutable Passport.

Free-to-play modes let you explore the game world, complete quests, and interact with other players without owning in-game assets. For beginners, it’s a great way to try before you buy into the full Web3 experience. Emerging technologies like social logins and decentralized identifiers are also making wallet-free gaming more accessible.

Staying Safe in Web3 Gaming

Web3 gaming is exciting, but be safe. Follow official channels for your favourite games and developers. This will keep you updated on updates, new features and potential security threats.

Also, be wary of scams and phishing attempts, especially when dealing with NFTs and cryptocurrency. Always verify the platform and only use trusted marketplaces or wallets. Protect your private keys and recovery phrases – they’re the keys to all your assets.

Being informed and cautious will help you with Web3 gaming without the headaches.

Conclusion

Web3 gaming for beginners is simpler than it might seem. With new onboarding tools and accessible platforms like Telegram, and now TikTok, it’s getting easier to jump into this evolving space. Many games even offer free-to-play options, so you can explore without making an upfront investment.

What makes Web3 gaming special is you can earn rewards or even money as you play. But it’s not just about the money – many of these games are actually fun and worth playing for the gameplay and worlds themselves. Whether you want to try something new or jump into a growing community, Web3 gaming has you covered.

Editor’s note: Written with the assistance of AI – Edited and fact-checked by Jason Newey.