Of the different game genres that might benefit from blockchain technology, it’s difficult to imagine one more straightforwardly optimistic than trading card games (TCG). TCGs have been a staple of tabletop and collecting circles for decades now, but in more recent years we have seen the rise of the genre in digital gaming. Titles like Hearthstone and Magic the Gathering have exemplified the demand and play-ability of the digital TCG concept.
One area, however, didn’t quite translate as seamlessly as the competitive element, and that is the collectable nature of cards. Rare trading cards have been a source of excitement for children and adults alike, and while some of the received buzz from being the lucky recipient of some obscure card is still there, a great deal has been lost. This is where I believe blockchain technology can marry with TCGs perfectly. The blockchain allows players to genuinely own each collectible that acquire, increasing the allure of collecting and trading.
Steem Monsters is one of the first TCGs to utilize blockchain and it has now entered beta. Blockdecentral have recently uploaded some game footage for us to see exactly how it plays. Whether you’re a fan of the TCG genre or not, this is an important step for blockchain gaming and one worth keeping an eye on!