Blockchain gaming is moving fast, and it's all coming together these years. Gamers and developers are starting to latch on to decentralized technologies, so it's important to know what's currently going on with trends for anyone looking into this space. This article combines the major trends transforming the blockchain gaming industry.

## 1. The Rise of Play-to-Earn Models

## What is Play-to-Earn?

In blockchain gaming, a major trend is the play-to-earn (P2E) model, where players can indeed earn real value through in-game activities such as quests and battles. Unlike traditional games that offer no tangible return for time and money spent, P2E rewards users for their engagement and skills.

P2E has been popular for a variety of reasons:

1. Monetization of Skills: Players earn cryptocurrency or NFTs through their skills.
2. Flexibility: Players can freely decide how they will play the game, whether by grinding resources or engaging in competitive events.
3. Economic Opportunities: P2E games open entirely new economic opportunities for players, especially in regions where job opportunities are limited.

### Case Studies

The following P2E games have become industry benchmarks: in Axie Infinity, players can breed and battle Axies for tradable tokens; in The Sandbox, anyone can create and monetize gaming experiences.

### Future Directions

P2E games are gaining popularity as the gaming community seeks ways to monetize their game skills. Developers try to create experiences that will be both engaging and rewarding to the skill and strategy shown by players, thus cementing the dominance of P2E in blockchain gaming.

## 2. NFTs for Real Ownership

Non-fungible tokens, or NFTs, are revolutionizing the way players engage with in-game assets. Blockchain gaming gives true ownership of these assets, unlike the traditional games of limited ownership. Players can safely buy, sell, and trade unique digital items on the blockchain.

### Requisite of True Ownership

1. Asset Value: Players can invest in unique items, like skins, characters, or even weapons, that could appreciate over time.
2. Interoperability: NFTs can often be used across different games and platforms, enhancing their value and utility.
3. Community Building: Ownership of unique assets that can be traded or sold makes players more engaged in the game.

### Success Stories

The NFT integration has already been done with games such as Gods Unchained and Decentraland. In Gods Unchained, every player owns tradable cards that have given birth to a very active economy. In Decentraland, users are allowed to buy and sell blockchain-verified virtual land.
NFT Marketplace Surge

The growth of NFT gaming has caused marketplaces for in-game assets to emerge. In that way, platforms like OpenSea and Rarible are now a haven for gamers looking to trade collectibles and further fuel blockchain gaming.

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## 3. DAOs

## What are DAOs?

Those DAOs are governed by the operation of blockchain smart contracts. In gaming, DAOs allow players to take part in the development and governance of a game, thus creating a democratic environment.

### Benefits of DAOs in Gaming

1. Community Empowerment: The community gets to vote on critical issues that concern updates, features, and even resources.
2. Transparency: DAO decisions are recorded on the blockchain for accountability.
3. Participation Incentives: Participants are motivated to join governance through rewards, increasing participation.

### Examples of Gaming DAOs

Some gaming projects have adopted DAO structures. Yield Guild Games (YGG) allows players to pool their resources for collective investment and game development decisions. Aavegotchi also allows community voting on game mechanics and economic changes.

### Future of Player Governance

DAOs have democratized the experience of playing and the required cooperation in games, valuing the voices of the community.

As more games incorporate DAO structures, the players will be even more integrated into game development.

## 4. Better AR and VR Games

The Role of AR and VR in Gaming
AR and VR uses in blockchain games create immersion. Players enjoy better graphics and interactive gameplay, which makes gaming more dynamic.

### Benefits of AR and VR for Blockchain Gaming

1. Immersive Environments: AR and VR create lifelike gaming worlds that draw players in.
2. Innovative Gameplay—These technologies enable fresh mechanics, such as location-based games or fully immersive worlds.
3. More Social: AR and VR allow for social interaction—players are brought together in a common virtual environment.

### Notable AR and VR Games

Games like Pokémon GO show AR's potential in gaming, while VR titles like VRChat provide immersive social interactions. Blockchain games are starting to use these technologies for unique player experiences.

### Future of Immersive Gaming

With the increasing availability of AR and VR within blockchain gaming, new possibilities in gameplay and monetization will be seen. The developers who will adopt these technologies can get an upper hand in the market.

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## 5. Further Investment and Development

### Investment Splurge

Investment in blockchain gaming is growing, along with interest from venture capitalists. Tens of millions of dollars have been put into startups to build cool new games on top of blockchain. This capital influx accelerates advancements and game releases.

### Investment Drivers

1. Increasing Market Potential: The global gaming market is expected to surpass the $200 billion mark by 2024, which attracts investors. 2. New Business Models: Blockchain attracts investors with new revenue from P2E and NFT sales.
2. Technological Development: Improving the scalability and interoperability of blockchains makes it easier for developers to create complex games.

### Major Investments

High-profile investments in blockchain games have shot up. Animoca Brands has raised hundreds of millions to grow its games and NFTs, with projects like Illuvium and Star Atlas attracting significant support to prove the potential in the industry.

## 6. Nurture Community Involvement

Community is everything in gaming. Community engagement reigns supreme in Blockchain gaming. Developers gain feedback from players into improving the design and features of a game. Social media and forums are racked with debates concerning game mechanics and user experiences, thus creating a rich culture of communities.

### Community Solutions

1. Feedback Loops: Developers are creating infrastructure for obtaining and incorporating player response to update the game.
2. Social Media: strong foothold on Twitter, Discord, and Reddit to drive community loyalty.
3. Community Events: Host tournaments, competitions, and live Q&A sessions to give players a sense of community.

### Case Studies in Community-Led Development

Games like Splinterlands and Axie Infinity have built strong communities by engaging with players and implementing their feedback. This boosts the gaming experience and builds loyalty.

### The Future of Community Engagement

With this increase in community involvement, developers that will listen to their players are most likely to see increased loyalty and success in blockchain gaming; proving that good developer-player relations is a must.

## 7. Regulatory Challenges and Opportunities 

### Key Takeaways Regulations 

Blockchain gaming is growing, but regulatory challenges are increasing. Governments are having trouble classifying cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and P2E models, which is causing confusion among developers and players. 

### Key Regulations 

1. Taxation: The taxation of cryptocurrency earnings and NFT sales varies by jurisdiction, creating complexities for players and developers.

2﻿. Consumer Protection: Regulators are also looking to protect players from fraud and ensure fairness in P2E models. 

3. Securities Laws: Some blockchain games might be subject to securities regulations, complicating development and marketing.

### Regulatory Opportunities

Regulatory challenges are opportunities to innovate. Developers can win player trust and differentiation in the space by dealing with compliance and transparency. Clearer regulations will also likely draw in more mainstream players and investors.

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## C﻿onclusion

The blockchain gaming space is developing fast, with a focus on aspects touching on player engagement, ownership, and community. 2024 will be an important year for these trends to be known by gamers, developers, and investors in the gaming industry. Unlock the potential of insights coming out of play-to-earn models, NFTs, DAOs, and AR/VR to be at the forefront of blockchain gaming. Knowledge of these dynamics will help players, developers, and investors make sense of this exciting space.

Explore how blockchain is rewriting the rules. Players are no longer just consumers - they're creators, earners, and decision-makers.

Blockchain Gaming: Trends to Watch!

For the third year, the Berlin-based platform [TechBehemoths](https://techbehemoths.com/) is launching its highly anticipated TechBehemoths 2024 Awards, celebrating excellence in the tech industry in 55 countries. Offering a meritocratic way for companies to showcase their greatness and stand out in a competitive industry. 

This year, their Awards experienced unprecedented interest from technology service providers.

The big news is that in 2024, [Polish companies have been recognized](https://techbehemoths.com/awards-2024/poland) for the third time. There are over 104 exceptional tech service providers covering 20 services, from UX/UI Design to Software Development, AI and Cybersecurity. They have been selected for their contributions to the local economy and their impact on the international market. 

This award comes with huge reputational impact on Poland’s tech market:

* Highlights Poland’s prominence as a tech innovation hub, boosting its national reputation.
* Empowering local businesses by showcasing their potential for international recognition.
* Attracts global interest from investors and clients, enhancing economic opportunities.

Polish tech companies participating in these awards join a global network of innovators and receive recognition that helps them grow and strengthen their position in the market. 

“Poland is one of our backbones, a super professional environment of great tech service providers! We are so happy to have it also in our 2024 Tech Awards. This year we have seen immense interest in Polish tech service providers from all over the world. This is a recognition of excellence and persistence”, added Marcel Sobieski, TechBehemoths founder.

The selection process focuses exclusively on merit and the proven track record, aiming to highlight expertise and the value provided to clients. The awards help businesses find trustworthy tech service providers while boosting the credibility and visibility of the winners. 

The TechBehemoths Awards is established as a trusted benchmark for quality and achievement in the global tech industry. The awards highlight companies that consistently deliver results, whether through innovative solutions, effective project implementation, or strong client relationships. For [Polish firms](https://techbehemoths.com/companies/poland) like [Movadex](https://movadex.com/), the awards provide a gateway to increased visibility among international clients and investors.

Tech scene is rising—global clients and innovators, take note! 

Poland National Tech Industry in the Spotlight TechBehemoths 2024 Awards

# Video Games and Mental Health: A Closer Look

People in recent years have talked a lot about video games and mental health. Initially, games were viewed simply as fun activities, but now they are recognized for possibly helping to improve mental health. So, can video games improve mental health? Let's take a closer look at this intriguing question and see how gaming can help our mental health in positive ways.

## Understanding the Mental Health Benefits of Gaming

### 1.Relief of Stress and Relaxation

Many players use video games as a means of escape and diversion from their everyday stress. Playing games can help reduce stress a lot. In several studies, it has been shown that playing video games can actually lower cortisol levels, which are considered to be associated with stress. This makes gaming a good choice for people looking for effective ways to relieve stress.

![Image from Pexels](img/pexels-pixabay-371924.jpg "Image from Pexels")

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#### The Science Behind Stress Relief

As reported in the Journal of CyberTherapy and Rehabilitation, lessened the levels of stress a person experiences compared to those who did not play. Playing the game diverts your attention from stressful situations, thus helping the individual to relax. Moreover, completion of a level or achievement of a goal in a game gives a sense of accomplishment that further decreases stress.

### 2. Social Relations

Some people have a belief that gamers are lonely, which is totally not the case. Video games, in fact, help many people socialize. Multiplayer and online games allow players to communicate with friends and other people they can meet, helping to encourage teamwork and communication. Those social moments may help people reduce feelings of loneliness and depression and feel less alone. Research proves that strong friendships made through gaming can improve mental health.

#### Building Communities Through Gaming

Online gaming platforms have become social places for many—indeed, millions. Players can make lifelong friendships and communities through cooperating in a raid in *World of Warcraft* or competing with others in a match in *Fortnite*. Those connections will provide emotional support and may make people feel less lonely. Many games also have features that help build good social interactions, such as voice chat and team goals, which help build teamwork among players.

### 3. Cognitive Advantages 

Video games often require strategic thinking, quick reflexes, and problem-solving skills. Research indicates that playing action and strategy games can improve cognitive functions such as spatial awareness, memory, and decision-making. These cognitive enhancements can lead to greater confidence and reduced anxiety in real-life situations, helping individuals navigate daily challenges more effectively.

#### Enhancing Problem-Solving Skills

Games that make players think hard and decide fast can help improve their thinking skills. For example, puzzle games like *Portal* and strategy games like *StarCraft* need players to change their plans as situations change. This quick thinking can lead to better problem-solving in real life, helping players manage stress and uncertainty better.

### 4. Therapeutic Applications

Game-based therapy is a new way to help with mental health. Therapists are more likely to use video games in their attempts to connect with their patients in ways that the usual methods might not. For example, games made to teach coping skills can assist people in dealing with anxiety and depression successfully. This creative use of gaming in therapy shows how video games can be useful tools in mental health care.

#### Case Studies in Game-Based Therapy

Many mental health workers have successfully used games in their therapy. For example, *SPARX* is a game designed to help young people manage depression. It teaches the ways to change thinking patterns through cognitive behavioral therapy in an enjoyable way, allowing gamers to learn and practice those methods while playing. All these instances are proof of how video games can be used as a means to support mental health.

#### The Science of Gaming and Mental Health

Contemporary research has shown strong evidence that video games can be beneficial to mental health. A survey in the *Journal of Medical Internet Research* discovered that people who played video games felt less depression and anxiety. The way in which video games work helps players to share their feelings with others and deal with emotions in a safe manner.

Additionally, gaming can be used as a type of mindfulness by keeping the individual focused on the present and distracting them from previous negative thoughts.

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### The Role of Brain Chemicals

Playing video games can stimulate the brain to release neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, which are associated with pleasure and rewards. This release could enhance mood and lead to feelings of happiness. Many players have reported that they felt joy and satisfaction after completing difficult tasks in games, helping induce a positive mental state. This reaction in the brain can be especially helpful for people dealing with depression.

## Playing Games to Be Mindful

Mindfulness is being completely in the moment, paying attention. It can also reduce anxiety and help in improving mental health. Games requiring focus and attention can act like mindfulness; for example, slow-paced games like *Journey* or *Firewatch* help the player get into the environment to promote relaxation and clear thinking.

## Choosing the Right Games

Not all video games are equal, but some can be more helpful for mental health than others. Here are some types that are especially helpful:

* Puzzle Games: These games enhance problem-solving skills and can also provide a calming effect, which helps in reducing stress and anxiety. Good examples include *Tetris* and *Candy Crush*.
* Simulation Games: Games such as The Sims or Stardew Valley enable players to be creative and feel successful, building and taking care of their own virtual worlds.
* Cooperative Multiplayer Games: Games such as Overcooked or Among Us encourage working together and making friends; players are, therefore, encouraged to talk and work as a team.
* Games with Stories: Games having great stories, such as *Life is Strange* or *The Last of Us*, can help players experience emotions and understand more about their thoughts and feelings.

### The Importance of Choosing Games

It is very important to pick the right games in order to reap the most mental health benefits. Games that provide positive feedback, support creativity, and help in building social connections are the best. On the other hand, games that encourage violence or bad behavior can harm mental health. Players should look for games that match their values and give a good experience.

## Setting Healthy Boundaries 

As with any hobby, moderation is key. It would be better to set limits so that gaming really nurturing positive influences on mental health. Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy gaming lifestyle:

* Take Regular Breaks: It can be overwhelming if not taken in controlled doses. Taking frequent breaks prevent this from happening and help to retain focus. Timers or scheduled gaming can actually help manage time. 
* Balance Gaming with Physical Activity: The best remedy is to involve physical activity in your life to balance out all that sitting while gaming. Activities such as walking, yoga, or even dancing are healthy options to balance out screen time.
* Focus on In-Person Interactions: Online connections are important, but keeping real-life relationships is key for mental well-being. Invite friends and family to play games together or participate in social events outside of the game.

### Recognizing Signs of Overindulgence

It's important to know the signs that gaming might be hurting your mental health. If you start ignoring your responsibilities, spending less time with friends and family, or feeling more anxious when you're not playing games, it may be a good idea to think about your gaming habits. Getting help from friends, family, or mental health experts can assist you in dealing with these issues.

![Image from Pexels](img/pexels-thatguycraig000-1543766.jpg "Image from Pexels")

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## The Importance of Game Design

The design of video games can greatly impact their benefits toward mental health. Games with good stories, positive feedback, and welcoming communities can improve how players feel. Developers are becoming more aware of how their games can impact players' mental health, so the environments in games are becoming more supportive.

### Inclusive Game Design

Inclusive game design means creating an environment where every player feels welcome and valued. That may include diverse character types, accommodations for players with disabilities, and rules for respectful behavior. Inclusivity-focused games help players connect and feel more supported while playing, which improves the experience for them.

### Positive Feedback Loops

Games that give rewards, achievements, and track progress can make the player feel a sense of accomplishment and value. This feedback loop can bolster confidence and motivation in players, encouraging them to adopt positive thinking. These are features game makers are increasingly leveraging to promote mental health.

## Personal Stories: How Gaming Helped People

### Real-Life Stories

Many people have found comfort and help through gaming during hard times. Personal stories show how video games can improve mental health. For example, one player said that *Animal Crossing: New Horizons* helped them deal with anxiety during the pandemic. The game’s relaxing setting and community interactions gave a feeling of normality and connection during a tough time. Another person talked about how competitive gaming helped them focus better and be more disciplined. By taking part in esports, they created a routine that was good for their mental health, helping them handle stress and gain confidence. 

### Community Support 

Online gaming communities can also provide emotional support and friendship. Players share experiences and encourage one another, which fosters a sense of belonging. For people with mental health issues, these communities may even be more helpful because they provide a safe place to connect with others who understand their problems. 

## The Future of Gaming and Mental Health 

With the research showing good effects of video games on mental health, there are likely to be more new ideas coming out that help well-being. Game makers have come to realize more and more that they should create games that not only entertain but also help players' mental health in a good way.

## New Trends in Game Development 

There are many trends coming up in the game industry that show a focus on mental health. 

* Mindfulness Games: There are developers working on games to help people relax and be more mindful. Games such as Flow and Journey encourage players to take their time, connect with their environment, and even bear healing benefits. 
* Educational Games: Games that teach mental health and how to cope with it are on the rise. These games can be helpful for people who want to get better at dealing with challenges. 
* Working Together: With the continued success of multiplayer games, a lot of development time is spent making experiences all about teamwork and social interaction. Games like *It Takes Two* really drive home that aspect of working together and creating connections between players. 

![Image from Pexels](img/pexels-pixabay-163064.jpg "Image from Pexels")

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## A New Perspective on Gaming

So, can video games help mental health? The evidence is that, when played carefully and not in excess, video games may prove useful in improving mental well-being. By offering relaxation, social relations, and stimulation in thinking, gaming is slowly changing its role in our lives. As we keep looking into this changing area, it’s clear that video games are more than just fun; they can help in the quest for better mental health. Whether you play games for fun or take them seriously, think about how you can use the good sides of gaming to help your mental health. Harness the power of video games as a positive medium, and let them find their place in your mental health journey. By choosing the right games, setting healthy limits, and finding supportive communities, you can actively use gaming to improve your mental health and overall well-being. Together we can build an even better gaming culture that helps and supports one another!

A fresh look at gaming's positive impact!

Can Video Games Help Mental Health?

## Introduction

![Image from FreePik](img/online-games-concept_23-2148514180.jpg "Image from FreePik")

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Graphic designers are constantly seeking new sources of inspiration to fuel their creativity. While traditional design resources are valuable, interactive mediums like video games can offer a unique and immersive experience that stimulates the imagination. In this article, we present the top 5 games that graphic designers should explore to ignite their creativity, enhance their problem-solving skills, and find fresh perspectives.

## Hex Invaders

Hex Invaders is an exciting game that challenges your color-matching skills. With a focus on hex codes, you'll destroy alien invaders whose color matches the code displayed on your screen. This game helps you develop a keen eye for color accuracy and enhances your ability to work with precise color codes.

## The Bezier Game

The Bezier Game focuses on mastering the Pen Tool, a vital tool in software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. By completing various challenges, you'll learn how to create and manipulate smooth curves and precise paths. This game enhances your vector drawing skills and streamlines your workflow when working with complex shapes.

## It's Centred That

Precision is key in graphic design, and It's Centred That helps you hone your eye for alignment and symmetry. The game presents you with different shapes and challenges you to judge whether the dots within them are perfectly centered. By practicing this game, you'll develop a strong sense of balance and improve your ability to create visually pleasing compositions.

## Can't Unsee

Attention to detail is crucial in UI design, and Can't Unsee tests your ability to spot subtle design flaws. By comparing design variations and selecting the most correct one, you'll refine your eye for UI elements, layout, and user experience. This game trains you to pay attention to small details that can make a significant impact on your designs.

## Logo Design Quiz

Logo Design Quiz is an engaging game that tests your knowledge of famous brand logos. By guessing the brand based on partial previews of their logos, you'll sharpen your logo recognition skills and gain inspiration from iconic designs. This game improves your ability to create memorable and impactful logo designs.

## I Shot The Serif

In I Shot The Serif, you'll embark on a typographic shooting adventure where your objective is to shoot only the serif fonts within a given time limit. This game helps you differentiate between serif and sans-serif fonts and refines your ability to choose the appropriate typeface for specific design contexts.

## Conclusion

![Image from FreePik](img/online-games-addiction_23-2148529969.jpg "Image from FreePik")

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Exploring these top 5 games for graphic designers can be an enriching and inspiring experience. Each game offers unique visual aesthetics, immersive worlds, and thought-provoking challenges that can ignite your creativity and push the boundaries of your design skills. So, fire up your PC and embark on a journey to uncover new avenues of inspiration for your graphic design endeavors.

Enhance your graphic design skills with 5 free games specifically made for graphic designers. Sharpen your color-matching, typography, logo design and UI skills through engaging and interactive gamified experiences.

Top 5 Games for Graphic Designers to Fuel Creativity and Inspiration

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