Google Play Store Issues NFT-Friendly Policy, Opens Up to Web3 Games
In partnership with Reddit and Mythical Games, the world's largest app store is looking to establish itself as a "safe" and "transparent" platform for blockchain games and NFTs.
NFT games are now allowed on Google Play
In what seems to be a game-changing move, Google Play Store, the world's largest app store by number of apps and downloads, has released an NFT-friendly policy, opening its doors to Web3 games.
Earlier, Google said that it would modify its Google Play standards to provide clearer guidelines for adding NFTs to Android games. The internet giant has now unveiled new guidelines for allowing and regulating blockchain games and apps, with full deployment slated for December 2023.
"As a platform, we always want to help developers bring innovative ideas to life. Google Play hosts a variety of blockchain-related apps, and we know that our partners are excited to expand on these offerings to create more engaging and immersive digital experiences with tokenized digital assets such as NFTs," wrote Play Store in a blog post announcing the news.
"Like with any emerging technology, we must balance innovation with our responsibility to protect users. So, we've spoken with developers about responsibly supporting those opportunities while continuing to provide a safe, transparent, and trusted experience for everyone," said Google Play, adding that it has collaborated with Mythical Games and Reddit to create its Web3-friendly policy.
Based on the latest guidelines, blockchain game developers must disclose their games as Web3 titles on their content pages. This will inform users that the game incorporates blockchain tech and features NFT assets. Like Epic Games' policy, this disclosure will ensure that users understand what to expect from the game.
To better protect users, any form of gambling is prohibited, including mechanisms that drop random blockchain-based items from a purchase, such as "loot boxes." Developers may not promote or glamorize any potential earnings from playing or trading in the game. Pay-to-play social casino games, such as slot machines that reward NFTs, are also considered a violation.
While Google's Web3 policy has a few limitations, the move is widely seen as a more favorable approach to NFTs than Apple App Store's. The company's decision to embrace Web3 games further legitimizes the concept of digital ownership and paves the way for widespread adoption. As millions of users rely on the platform for their gaming needs, many believe that the integration of blockchain games could usher in a new era of digital ownership, marking a significant step forward for Web3 gaming.
