Mythical Games' Strategy Drives 6M Downloads, Sets Web3 Gaming Standards

Coin WorldThursday, May 1, 2025 12:22 pm ET
2min read

Mythical Games has established itself as a leader in the web3 gaming industry, offering valuable lessons for game developers looking to break into this space. The company's strategy, which emphasizes quality, user experience, and long-term planning, has resulted in the release of successful games like NFL Rivals and Blankos Block Party. These games have not only garnered millions of downloads but have also set new standards for web3 gaming.

One of the key lessons from Mythical Games is the importance of not rushing the first release. The quality of the initial game can define a studio's reputation, and Mythical has taken a conscientious approach, releasing only two games in nearly seven years. This strategy has allowed them to focus on creating high-quality games that resonate with their audience.

Another crucial lesson is to avoid making the game solely about earning. Mythical Games has steered clear of the play-to-earn model, focusing instead on creating enjoyable gaming experiences. They have emphasized the value of play-and-own, where players can own in-game assets without the primary goal being financial gain. This approach has helped them attract a broader audience who are interested in the game for its entertainment value rather than its potential for profit.

Mythical Games has also shown the importance of not forcing a token into the game. While they have their own utility token, it is not a barrier to entry. Players can enjoy the game without needing to hold the token or create a web3 wallet. This strategy breaks down barriers and attracts more active users. Nate Nesbitt, Head of Communications at Mythical Games, advises developers to incorporate web3 elements only if they enhance the game, asking whether they add friction or fun.

The company has also demonstrated the value of not chasing fads. Instead of following the latest trends, Mythical Games chose a niche genre like football for their debut release, NFL Rivals. This decision paid off, with the game achieving six million downloads. By sticking to their plan and choosing a genre they were passionate about, they were able to create a successful game that stood out in the market.

Dreaming big is another lesson from Mythical Games. They envisioned a game concept that had the potential to resonate with the mass market and successfully licensed the NFL's IP for use in their game. This bold move allowed them to create a game that appealed to a wide audience and set them apart from other web3 games.

Reaching out to partners is also crucial. Mythical Games has attracted developers through their Mythical Platform, which provides out-of-the-box tooling and support. This strategy has helped them build a strong ecosystem and attract up-and-coming developers. Other leading web3 gaming ecosystems, such as Gala Games and Treasure, offer similar support and tooling.

Playing the long game is another important lesson. Mythical Games had a sequel in mind for NFL Rivals even while working on the maiden release. This forward-thinking approach allowed them to plan for future releases and expansions, ensuring that their games had longevity and appeal to a broader audience.

Finally, Mythical Games emphasizes the importance of user experience. They have created games with great UX, making it easy for players to navigate and enjoy the game. This focus on UX has been a key factor in the success of their games, as it ensures that players have a seamless and enjoyable experience from onboarding to end-of-level scenes.

In summary, Mythical Games' strategy offers valuable lessons for game developers looking to break into the web3 gaming industry. By focusing on quality, user experience, and long-term planning, and avoiding common pitfalls like rushing releases and chasing fads, developers can create successful web3 games that resonate with a broad audience.