Trump Launches Crypto Game Amid Web3 Sector Decline
Donald Trump, the former US President, is delving deeper into the realm of digital assets with a new project that combines elements of gaming and cryptocurrency. This initiative is set to launch in late April and is described as a mobile game similar to MONOPOLY GO!, where players navigate a digital board, earning money by constructing buildings in a virtual city. The game is being developed by Bill Zanker, a member of Trump’s inner circle who has been involved in launching Trump’s memecoin and various NFT collections. Zanker has denied any similarity to Monopoly, although he confirmed his involvement in the game project.
The Monopoly board game, originally published by Parker Brothers, is now owned by Hasbro, which acquired the company in 1991. Zanker reached out to Hasbro in May 2024 to seek a license for a Trump-branded Monopoly game, according to sources who requested anonymity due to ongoing business negotiations. Zanker declined requests for an interview.
Trump’s foray into the crypto world marks a significant shift from his previous skepticism. During his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump expressed enthusiasm for Web3 technologies. His crypto ventures include Official Trump (TRUMP), a memecoin with a market capitalization of $1.5 billion, along with various NFT projects and a decentralized finance venture called World Liberty Financial. In February, Trump-owned DTTM Operations filed for several trademarks for a Trump-branded metaverse and NFT marketplace, which would allow users to shop for physical and virtual goods, enjoy various modes of transport, and watch public service programs.
Trump’s evolving stance on cryptocurrency is notable. In 2021, he described Bitcoin as “a scam against the dollar” and claimed it was “based on thin air.” However, he has since pivoted to engage with crypto voters and signed an executive order to establish a strategic Bitcoin reserve in the US.
Despite Trump’s enthusiasm, the new crypto game may face challenges in gaining traction. The Web3 gaming sector has struggled amid macroeconomic turmoil, with daily active users of Web3 games decreasing by 6% in the first quarter of 2025. Investments in the sector also dropped by 71% quarter-over-quarter to $91 million. The complex macroeconomic environment, including trade wars and geopolitical tensions, has contributed to a cautious investor sentiment.
