202 | Can Pixels finally make play-to-earn work?

from Blockchain Gaming World Hosted by jon jordan

Jon talks to Pixels CEO Luke Barwikowski about how he still believes play-to-earn rewards are a viable marketing mechanic. [2:09] 'This is probably the worst market sentiment I've seen in the space.' [5:40] 'Without speculation, you have to build something that's fundamentally sound. That's hard.' [7:50] 'In early 2024, Pixels was loved. People were making money. But we weren't making money.' [8:39] '1% of our players were taking 50% of the rewards.' [9:51] After recent changes, Pixels has generated a Return On Reward Spend greater than 1. [12:25] 'I think over time, Play-to-Earn becomes more of a loyalty or a cash-back system.' [14:00] 'We've noticed crypto is very off-putting for normal users. Robux or V-Bucks are more [20:45] The spend-only vPIXEL token has been surprisingly effective when used correctly. [23:45] Pixels Chapter 3 introduces Unions, which are factions for competitive gameplay. [27:13] 'The issue with web3 gaming isn't fidelity, it's figuring out the economics.' [27:53] 'We did $20 million in revenue in 2024. 2025 will be less but it's more sustainable.' [29:41] Why Pixels has launched new social tamagotchi app Chubkins. (Currently only US.) [30:05] 'We're not going to emphasis crypto, but we will emphasis rewards, including crypto cash-out.' [33:50] Pixels also plans to launch a standalone rewards app in 2026.