NFT bans are still on the menu for Minecraft
In a move that rocked the Web3 community, Minecraft announced its intention to ban non-fungible tokens (NFTs) on player-run servers back in July 2022. However, nearly a year later, the ban has yet to be implemented, leaving many wonder about the game’s stance on these unique blockchain assets. Despite the delay, Microsoft recently confirmed that the ban is still on the horizon. Let’s explore Minecraft’s upcoming crackdown on NFTs and the reasons behind this decision.
The delayed announcement
Microsoft-owned game developer Mojang first stated that they would update Minecraft’s guidelines to explicitly limit the use of NFTs. These unique tokenized assets, integrated with the game, were deemed incompatible with the company’s values of inclusion and creative collaboration.
The Swedish game developer’s announcement drew attention from the Web3 world and raised expectations of swift action. However, Minecraft’s guidelines remained unchanged, leaving players and developers in limbo according to Decrypt.
The source even suggests that the enforcement of the ban may come soon.
Address Token-Gating and Exclusion
One of the primary concerns raised by Mojang was the potential for NFTs to introduce exclusivity and restrict access to certain content or features on player-run servers. Minecraft allows players to charge for access, but all features offered must be available to all players for purchase.
NFTs, on the other hand, may introduce limited features reserved for a select group of assets. The company believes that such exclusivity goes against the game’s core values of inclusion and cooperative play.
Distorted focus and third-party influence
Mojang expressed concern about the speculative pricing and investment mentality surrounding NFTs. It argued that this shift in focus detracts from the enjoyment and long-term success of Minecraft’s player base. Furthermore, the game developer planned to ban the creation of third-party NFT resources based on official game resources.
This decision reportedly affected projects such as NFT Worlds, which had built its foundation on Minecraft servers. To adapt, NFT Worlds transformed into Topia, an original game inspired by Minecraft but developed from scratch.
Microsoft’s commitment
Interestingly, despite Minecraft’s upcoming NFT ban, Microsoft itself released NFTs related to the game in partnership with crypto gaming startup Enjin. These digital collectibles were launched in February 2021 to commemorate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
While Microsoft’s involvement in NFTs may seem contradictory, it is crucial to note that the planned ban primarily targets third-party NFT resources that use official Minecraft game assets.
Final thoughts
Although Minecraft’s ban on NFTs has been delayed, Microsoft has confirmed that the game’s policy update is still in progress. The decision to limit NFT use in Minecraft reflects Mojang’s commitment to maintaining an inclusive and collaborative gaming environment. While NFT enthusiasts and Minecraft players await the final policy, it’s clear that the game’s values prioritize creative expression and equal opportunity for all.
As the Web3 landscape continues to evolve, Minecraft’s upcoming ban serves as a significant development in the ongoing conversation surrounding NFTs in the gaming world, which has received mixed reactions from players.
Giancarlo is an economist and researcher by profession. Before joining Blockzeit’s dynamic team, he handled several crypto projects for both the public and private sectors as a project manager for a consulting firm.
