Crypto Gaming Surges in 2025 Amid Regulation and P2E Growth

The crypto gaming industry has seen significant momentum in the first half of 2025, with a reported 5.8 million unique crypto wallet users in the first quarter and a slight decrease to 4.9 million in the second quarter, according to Dappradar [1]. Despite the dip, the sector is increasingly becoming mainstream, with experts forecasting continued growth and transformation in the final five months of the year. Analysts suggest that more players are shifting from traditional gaming platforms to blockchain-based alternatives, such as Metaspins [1].

The global blockchain gaming market was valued at $21.6 billion, and is projected to grow at a 63.4% compound annual growth rate over the next eight years, reaching $1.27 trillion by 2033, as reported by CoinLaw [1]. Play-to-earn (P2E) models have dominated the revenue stream, accounting for 62% of industry earnings in both Q1 and Q2. These models attract players by offering tangible value for in-game achievements, creating a strong incentive to participate [1].

Mobile-based gaming has also emerged as a key driver, with over 3.3 billion mobile gamers globally, making up 42% of the global population, according to Tekrevol [1]. Developers are increasingly focusing on mobile platforms, using technologies such as HTML5 and progressive web apps to enhance user experience on smaller screens. This shift has been particularly evident in crypto casinos, which are adapting to meet the growing demand for mobile-first gaming solutions [1].

Regulatory developments have played a crucial role in shaping the industry. The re-election of Donald Trump has brought more structure to the crypto space, with a ripple effect across global regulatory bodies. Notable frameworks include the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation and the GENIUS Act in the U.S. These regulations aim to provide clarity and increase transparency, benefiting both service providers and users [1]. The impact of MiCA, enacted in December 2024, has already started to influence the industry this year [1].

Looking ahead, the final five months of 2025 are expected to bring continued market growth and a bullish sentiment. Bitcoin reached an all-time high of $122,838 in July, and although there has been some consolidation, analysts are optimistic about future price movements [1]. This optimism is mirrored in the crypto gaming sector, which is expected to experience further integration with traditional gaming through high-quality AAA Blockchain titles [1].

Crypto casinos are also expected to leverage emerging technologies such as augmented and virtual reality to enhance their offerings. While no concrete announcements have been made, platforms like Metaspins have a history of curating and recommending new game releases, indicating a potential for innovation in the latter half of the year [1].

Regulatory evolution is expected to continue, with the pro-crypto stance of the current administration influencing global policy frameworks. Although no definitive regulations have been implemented yet, the industry is anticipating clearer guidelines for digital assets in gaming [1].

As the year progresses, the crypto gaming industry is positioned to further bridge the gap between traditional and blockchain-based gaming, driven by technological innovation, regulatory clarity, and a growing player base [1]. Analysts and industry participants remain optimistic about the future, provided responsible gaming standards are maintained to ensure a sustainable and inclusive ecosystem.

Source: [1] The Rise of Crypto Gaming in 2025 and What to Expect in the Remaining 5 Months (https://coincheckup.com/blog/the-rise-of-crypto-gaming-in-2025-and-what-to-expect-in-the-remaining-5-months/)