Neon Machine Secures $20M for Blockchain Game ‘Shrapnel’

Neon Machine has successfully raised $20 million in Series A funding to develop its innovative blockchain-based shooter game, “Shrapnel.” The highly-anticipated project promises to merge traditional gaming excitement with the cutting-edge capabilities of web3 technology, offering players full ownership of in-game assets. This reflects a growing trend in player-centric gaming that characterizes the decentralized web3 ecosystem.

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An Innovative Approach to Web3 Gaming

Neon Machine's recent financial boost, following an already substantial seed round in 2021, positions “Shrapnel” as a strong competitor in the AAA gaming arena. Sneak previews of the game demonstrate high-quality graphics and an exciting gameplay loop.

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“Shrapnel” introduces a fresh multiplayer experience with unique "extraction" mechanics, adding a high-stakes element where players must secure and escape with valuable loot to progress. The extraction approach is not new, but the differentiating element in this game is that the assets are connected to blockchain.

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The integration of web3 and blockchain technology grants players complete ownership of their digital assets, according to Neon Machine. This move could potentially set a new standard for player investment and game interaction.

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Empowering Players to Create

Another unique feature of the “Shrapnel” ecosystem is the scope for creativity. The inclusion of a modding tool set allows players and developers alike to expand the game universe with new blockchain assets. This gives the game room to grow and creates a platform for community-based innovation.

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Francis Brankin, head of Economy at “Shrapnel,” commented on the rising popularity of user-created content. He pointed to popular games like “Roblox” and “Minecraft” as examples. 

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That’s why Neon Machine developers decided to use blockchain to give users control over their creations. Players will even own the intellectual property rights over in-game assets and be able to interact with other gamers. These creative features demonstrate Neon Machine's commitment to its community. 

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Strategic Rollout and Expansion

With early-access testing for paid subscribers slated for December and a free-to-play release targeted for 2024, Neon Machine is taking calculated steps to ensure the success of “Shrapnel.” This phased testing approach allows the company to refine the game based on player feedback, ensuring Shrapnel will impress its audience upon full release. 

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The company’s plan to license its web3 developer platform, GameBridge, indicates Neon Machine's vision of a sustained impact on the gaming industry, well beyond the game’s initial reception. Indeed, the company has made it clear that it intends to scale up significantly over time.

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According to Brankin, the developers chose Avalanche as their blockchain network for its scaling capabilities. The easy-to-use transaction platform will allow “Shrapnel” to quickly expand its transaction processing capabilities as more players join. The choice of Avalanche for scaling capabilities demonstrates Neon Machine's commitment to technological advancements.

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Potential Roadblocks for U.S. Players

Despite Shrapnel’s promising trajectory, regulatory challenges have emerged for U.S.-based users. Brankin revealed in an interview with Cointelegraph that some players will face restrictions on cashing out due to concerns with the U.S. Securities Exchange Commission. 

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This move is a response to the regulatory scrutiny surrounding the monetary value realization of in-game assets. The regulatory landscape in the U.S. has become increasingly strict, prompting many cryptocurrency firms and gaming platforms to reassess their services within the country. 

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The restrictions imposed on U.S. players present a minor roadblock for Shrapnel's upcoming launch. However, the developers plan to go ahead as planned, in the hopes that they will be able to find a solution soon.

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Conclusion

Neon Machine’s innovative use of blockchain not only differentiates “Shrapnel” in the gaming arena but also sets a precedent for player engagement and asset ownership. The company's data-driven development, evident in its phased testing approach and commitment to refining based on user feedback, reflects a strategic understanding of evolving player needs. However, as the regulatory challenges for U.S.-based players highlight, the pursuit of technological advancements in the gaming industry is not without its risks. 

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Sources

CoinTelegraph: Neon Machine raises $20M

CoinTelegraph: Shrapnel Web3 shooter won’t let US users cash out

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This article was originally published in Certainty News: www.certaintynews.com/article/neon-machine-secures-20m-for-blockchain-game-shrapnel

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