GameFi, short for Game Finance, is the intersection of gaming and decentralized finance (DeFi). It uses blockchain to create gaming experiences where players can earn real-world value, often in the form of cryptocurrencies or non-fungible tokens (NFTs).

The GameFi sector is expected to reach $126 billion by 2032, with a compound growth rate of 27.13%. NFT games account for nearly 75% of all blockchain games. Meanwhile, GameFi tokens amassed $23 billion in market value and has a $3.9 billion 24-hour trading volume. 

Let’s explore the most popular GameFi titles this year. 

1. Alien Worlds 

In Alien Worlds, players fight for a rare resource called Trilium (TLM), also the game’s native cryptocurrency. TLM holders can participate in the game's governance through DAOs, earn rewards by staking their tokens, and buy in-game NFTs, like land, tools, and weapons. These tools then help you to source more Trilium. 

Owning land in Alien Worlds is a strategic move. Each land plot, also an NFT, generates a share of the TLM mined on it, providing its owner a steady income stream. Plus, these land NFTs can be freely traded on the open market.

2. Heroes of Mavia 

Heroes of Mavia is a strategy game on the Ronin blockchain. You become a commander, building your army, developing your land, and battling other players to conquer new territories.

The game uses a multi-currency system with MAVIA, RUBY, and SAPPHIRE tokens. It had over 2.6 million players as of March 2024 and now, this number may be even higher. This is thanks to fun gameplay and the use of NFT items like land, heroes, and statues, which give you special advantages and carry real-world value. Landowners get early access to new features and can stake their land to earn rewards.

3. Illuvium 

Illuvium is a role-playing game (RPG) that blends open-world exploration with collecting NFTs. In this fantasy world, players can capture, train, and battle unique creatures called Illuvials, each with its own special abilities. 

Illuvium stands out due to its decentralized governance through the Illuvium DAO, enabling players holding ILV tokens to influence game development. Built on Immutable X, it offers fast transactions with zero gas fees. 

The IlluviDEX marketplace also introduces fee-free NFT and in-game asset trading, which enhances economic potential for players. 

4. Star Atlas 

This space exploration game, built on the Solana blockchain, throws you into a futuristic universe where you can join factions, fight for territory, and really immerse yourself in the action. You earn the game's currency, ATLAS, by exploring, battling, and gathering resources.

You can also collect NFT items like spaceships, land, and powerful weapons. These are key to your success as Star Atlas makes strategic planning super important.

5. Splinterlands  

Splinterlands started as a trading card game on the blockchain and evolved into a whole ecosystem. You battle directly with other players using digital cards, each an NFT. The game's currency, DEC and SPS, can be earned by playing and even staked to boost your cards.

Recently, Splinterlands added land gameplay (virtual plots of territory within the game's world), making it even more strategic. You can upgrade your land using DEC to earn more SPS. 

Conclusion 

These 5 games are just a glimpse into the potential of GameFi. In the future, we can expect to see even more exciting games pushing the boundaries of what's possible in interactive entertainment.