In a move that shook the Web3 community, Minecraft announced its intention to ban non-fungible tokens (NFTs) on player-run servers back in July 2022. However, nearly a year later, the ban has yet to be implemented, leaving many wondering about the game’s stance on these unique blockchain assets. Despite the delay, Microsoft has recently confirmed that the ban is still on the horizon. Let’s explore Minecraft’s upcoming crackdown on NFTs and the reasons behind this decision.
The Delayed Announcement
Microsoft-owned game developer Mojang initially stated that they would update Minecraft’s guidelines to explicitly restrict the use of NFTs. These unique tokenized assets, integrated with the game, were deemed incompatible with the company’s values of inclusivity and creative collaboration.
The Swedish game developer’s announcement attracted attention from the Web3 world and prompted expectations for swift action. However, Minecraft’s guidelines remained unchanged, leaving players and developers in limbo according to Decrypt.
The source even implies that the enforcement of the ban may be coming soon.
Addressing Token-Gating and Exclusion
One of the primary concerns raised by Mojang was the potential for NFTs to introduce exclusivity and restrict access to certain content or features on player-operated servers. Minecraft allows players to charge for access, but any features offered must be available to all players for purchase.
NFTs, on the other hand, can introduce limited features reserved for a select group of asset owners. The company believes that such exclusivity goes against the game’s core values of inclusion and cooperative play.
Distorted Focus and Third-Party Impact
Mojang expressed concerns about the speculative pricing and investment mentality surrounding NFTs. It argued that this shift in focus detracts from the joy and long-term success of Minecraft’s player base. Furthermore, the game developer planned to ban the creation of third-party NFT assets based on official game assets.
This decision has reportedly affected projects like NFT Worlds, which had built their foundations on Minecraft servers. To adapt, NFT Worlds transformed into Topia, an original game inspired by Minecraft but developed from scratch.
Microsoft’s Involvement
Interestingly, despite Minecraft’s forthcoming NFT ban, Microsoft itself released NFTs tied to the game in collaboration with crypto gaming startup Enjin. These digital collectibles were launched in February 2021 to commemorate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
While Microsoft’s involvement in NFTs might seem contradictory, it’s crucial to note that the planned ban primarily targets third-party NFT assets that utilize official Minecraft game assets.
Final Thoughts
Although Minecraft’s ban on NFTs has been delayed, Microsoft has confirmed that the update to the game’s guidelines is still in progress. The decision to restrict NFT usage in Minecraft reflects Mojang’s commitment to maintaining an inclusive and collaborative gaming environment. While NFT enthusiasts and Minecraft players await the final policy, it’s clear that the game’s values prioritize creative expression and equal opportunities for all.
As the Web3 landscape continues to evolve, Minecraft’s upcoming ban serves as a significant development in the ongoing conversation surrounding NFTs in the gaming world, which has gained mixed reactions from gamers.
Giancarlo is an economist and researcher by profession. Prior to his addition to Blockzeit’s dynamic team, he was handling several crypto projects for both the government and private sectors as a Project Manager of a consultancy firm.
