Square Enix releases trailer for NFT game Symbiogenesis

Square Enix has officially unveiled the first trailer for Symbiogenesis, the upcoming blockchain-based game described as ‘narrative-unlocked NFT entertainment’. While the exact nature of the game remains unclear, it looks like it will be an adventure story, as the new trailer depicts a floating continent filled with various magical locations, and a towering world tree.

On its newly launched website, Square Enix has further confirmed Symbiogenesis will feature around 10,000 collectable NFT artworks that will have “real game tools”.

These NFTs will be centered around unique in-game characters “with different races and professions,” and users who purchase them will be able to use them as profile pictures. They will be sold when each of the game’s six main chapters are unveiled, and will contribute to an unfolding story.

Read: Square Enix CEO Yosuke Matsuda is to be replaced

“In the not-so-distant future… Humanity has managed to survive by living on the Floating Continent, the last safe haven on Earth where life is still possible amidst the pollution,” reads the game’s official story description. “Since the conflict is no more, the people live while gradually reclaiming previous civilizations. However, their peaceful life was shattered by the sudden attack of the Dragon, endangering the very existence of the Floating Continent [sic].’

As humanity struggles to repel the attack, they are faced with choices that will determine their fate. By uncovering the mystery behind this world’s origins, they will face the decisions to guide it towards an ideal future. This is the story of humanity’s final choice to live together.’

While this description suggests a traditional fantasy narrative filled with exploration and epic quests, the details remain extremely vague and, frankly, quite generic. So far, SymbiogenesisThe only difference seems to be the inclusion of NFTs and blockchain technology – a difference that is more likely to alienate players than attract them.

Square Enix has said that all story chapters can be completed and “played to the end even without having any Character NFT”, but these in-game purchases come with specific “tools for those who have the NFT collector’s art”. Players with character NFTs will be able to read unique stories, easily gain ranked experience, create a “replica” of their character, and gain additional NFT art when missions are completed.

Some story elements will be withheld from players who do not purchase NFTs, affecting the overall gameplay experience. Functionally, this means the game’s NFTs will be similar to in-game purchases or DLC packs – with the added baggage of controversy, hate, a hefty price tag, and potential environmental damage.

Given that the NFT ship has already sailed in the public consciousness, with even former backers such as Ubisoft labeling the technology “experimental” and largely discontinuing research, the way forward for Symbiogenesis is unclear. While the project has a significant following on social media, it has just as many vocal critics. After a rocky few years full of disappointments and lackluster releases, Square Enix has a lot riding on this experiment.

Follow along Symbiogenesis website for new updates, and a complete roadmap for the game.