Mobile gaming giant Zynga ZNGA +0.2% said it will partner in a strategic alliance with software developer Forte to create blockchain-based games built around Zynga’s portfolio of intellectual property and vast user base.
“Our goal is to bring a new level of quality and fun into Web3 and blockchain games, while also providing a safe and trusted ecosystem that will keep our valued players and communities entertained for years to come,” said Zynga’s recently hired VP of Blockchain Gaming Matt Wolf. “We’re excited to partner with Forte because of the team’s long‐term vision and approach to blockchain solutions and web3 development.”
“Web3” is a catchall term for a set of technologies designed to enable decentralized, blockchain-based experiences on the Internet and in immersive platforms, as well as such hot new distribution opportunities as non-fungible tokens, or NFTs.
Blockchain-based games, especially so-called play-to-earn titles, are a fast-growing new sector, particularly in some Asian markets. Web3 promises to create ways for players and creators to make money, or at least virtual currencies, and even have more ownership over virtual goods and even games themselves.
The companies emphasized that they plan to build games focused on security and engagement that will provide a layer of safety for players who may be unsure about the Wild West of blockchain gaming.
“We are proud to partner with Zynga as we look to advance the blockchain gaming ecosystem in a responsible way that will engage and benefit gamers, and provide them more economic opportunities,” said Forte co-founder and CEO Josh Williams. “We have built the Forte platform with best-in-class interoperability mechanics and compliance measures in our continuing efforts to bring safety, stability and trust to both developers and players.
Zynga’s game franchises include the just-released FarmVille 3, Harry Potter: Puzzles & Spells, Words With Friends, Golf Rival and CSR Racing. The company said its portfolio of mobile casual and hypercasual games have been downloaded more than 4 billion times from app stores. More recently, the company has acquired an ad-tech company and a development studio specializing in cross-platform titles as it looks to expand its reach.
Forte focuses on building blockchain solutions on a platform used by dozens of game publishers.
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