Expanding Platforms Without Blockchain Elements
The Machines Arena, a top-down shooter built on the Ethereum-based Ronin network, is set to expand its reach by launching on Steam and PlayStation 5. However, due to the platforms’ restrictive policies on blockchain content, these versions will exclude the game’s crypto-based features, including token rewards and NFT trading.
On PC via the Epic Games Store and Android devices, The Machines Arena includes seasonal campaigns that allow players to earn TMA tokens, unlocking additional in-game features. In these versions, skins are also tradable as NFTs on the Ronin network.
Unfortunately, Steam’s policy against blockchain integration means that none of these features will be available when it launches there on January 14, 2025.
“Our goal with the Steam version is to broaden our player base,” said David Gracia, Design Manager at Directive Games. “To comply with platform policies, crypto-related elements will not be present in this version.”
Ongoing Discussions for PS5 Release
As for the PlayStation 5 version, which is expected to launch in 2025, Gracia revealed that discussions with Sony are ongoing. “We’re exploring the scope of what we can offer on PS5 while adhering to their guidelines,” he noted.
Although there’s hope that some blockchain features might remain, no game has successfully incorporated crypto elements into its console versions on platforms like PS5 or Xbox to date. Similar projects, such as Moonray, had to strip out crypto functionality entirely when preparing for console releases.
Meanwhile, other blockchain-based games like Off the Grid have announced console versions while keeping crypto components in early access, powered by Avalanche’s dedicated GUNZ chain, though developers plan to “handle crypto differently” once these elements become more prominent.
Unified Cross-Platform Play
Despite offering different versions across platforms, Directive Games aims to maintain a cross-platform experience, allowing players from Steam, Epic Games Store, mobile, and PS5 to join the same lobbies and compete together, regardless of whether their version includes blockchain features.
“Our vision is to build a unified ecosystem where players can enjoy The Machines Arena on their platform of choice, with or without blockchain elements,” Gracia explained.
Final Thoughts
Directive Games’ decision to bring The Machines Arena to mainstream platforms like Steam and PS5 without crypto features shows a pragmatic approach to balancing accessibility and Web3 innovation.
Whether the PlayStation 5 version can retain blockchain elements remains to be seen, but the commitment to cross-platform play ensures that all gamers—crypto enthusiasts or not—can enjoy the action.
