Google Play Store has announced that it will now allow video game publishers to sell nonfungible token (NFT) games on its platform. The announcement was made on July 12, 2023, by Joseph Mills, the store’s group product manager, marking a significant step towards the integration of blockchain technology in mainstream gaming.
The updated policy enables developers to incorporate digital assets, including NFTs, into their apps and games. However, developers offering the ability to buy, sell, or earn tokenized assets must clearly indicate the presence of blockchain-based elements within the app on the Play Console.
This move is seen as an effort to open new avenues for transacting blockchain-based digital content within apps and games on Google Play, with a particular focus on enhancing user loyalty through unique NFT rewards.
Under the new guidelines, game developers must explicitly state if their game allows users to earn or buy NFTs or cryptocurrencies. The policy also prohibits developers from glamorizing potential earnings from playing or trading activities. Furthermore, the sale of loot boxes or any form of gambling is strictly forbidden.
The policy update does not affect the previous ban on crypto mining apps, which was implemented in 2018, or the removal of the Bitcoin Blast video game in 2020 due to deceptive practices.
The full rollout of the new policy is expected later in 2023, with the first tests of the new experiences anticipated in late summer.
Google Play has had “a variety of blockchain related apps”. Google Play has collaborated with several partners, including Reddit, known for its successful Avatar NFTs, to develop the new policy. The aim is to create a level playing field that promotes user trust and encourages responsible usage of blockchain technology.
This policy shift is seen as a clear indication of Google Play is embracing the adoption of blockchain and NFT.
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