Gaming is one of the most vibrant sectors of Web3, one that many say will onboard hundreds of millions, if not billions, of people to the next iteration of the internet. Non-fungible tokens, cryptocurrency, and the blockchain have the potential to revolutionize gaming as we know it, providing users with new avenues of revenue and rewards that had not been available.
PlayShutdown is one of the companies that hopes to be at the forefront of this revolution. It has produced a game by the same name that took familiar tropes to the industry — a shooter set in a dystopian society — and embedded Web3 elements. The result is an interesting title that aims to make an impact upon full release in Q4 of this year.
We had the opportunity to chat with Houston, Founder and CEO of PlayShutdown, for a quick interview. What follows are his thoughts on Web3 gaming, the game his company has produced, and much more. Enjoy.
Could you introduce yourself and the role you play at PlayShutdown?
I am Houston, Founder and CEO of PlayShutdown. In my role, I oversee project management, game design, and business development/partnerships. This means I am deeply involved in ensuring that our game not only meets the highest standards of gameplay and innovation but also aligns with our strategic vision.
I work closely with our development team to refine game mechanics, while also forging key partnerships to expand our reach and impact in the Web3 gaming space. My goal is to bring together a talented team and foster collaborations that drive PlayShutdown to new heights.
What is your crypto origin story — what drew you to the industry?
I entered the crypto space in 2014, starting as an investor in Dogecoin and Ethereum. The revolutionary potential of blockchain technology captivated me, and I soon found myself investing in several ICOs in 2017.
My passion for merging gaming with blockchain led me to establish Garage Studios in 2018, where we have been dedicated to creating innovative crypto games. My journey in the crypto industry has been driven by a desire to explore new frontiers and bring groundbreaking ideas to life through gaming.
What was the inspiration for PlayShutdown — an AI shooter set in a dystopian world?
The inspiration for PlayShutdown came from my love for classic games like Diablo and Path of Exile, which emphasize exploring different item builds and creating powerful combinations. We wanted to take these elements into a dystopian world, blending deep gameplay mechanics with a compelling narrative. The result is an AI shooter that challenges players to strategize and adapt in a richly detailed environment.
What makes this game stand out from all the other shooters out there?
PlayShutdown stands out due to its integration of Web3 elements, allowing players to own, trade, and sell in-game assets as NFTs. This ownership aspect, combined with our unique item build system and strategic gameplay, offers a fresh experience compared to traditional shooters. Our chain-agnostic approach ensures accessibility and a robust player-driven economy, setting us apart in the gaming landscape.
How will Web3 elements play a role in the game?
Web3 elements are central to PlayShutdown, providing players with true ownership of their in-game assets through NFTs. Players can mint new items, reroll stats, and engage in a secure, transparent ecosystem powered by blockchain technology. These features not only enhance the gaming experience but also create a thriving in-game economy where players can benefit from their achievements.
P2Es have struggled with longevity. How will PlayShutdown buck this trend?
To ensure longevity, PlayShutdown prioritizes delivering an engaging and fun gameplay experience that stands on its own. We are building a community-driven game with regular content updates, player involvement in governance, and a focus on creating a sustainable in-game economy. By making the game itself highly enjoyable and fostering a strong community, we aim to maintain long-term interest and engagement.
Where do you see the future of Web3 gaming going in the next 5-10 years?
In the next 5-10 years, I envision Web3 gaming becoming more integrated into mainstream gaming, with blockchain technology enhancing player experiences through true ownership, decentralized economies, and innovative gameplay mechanics. The lines between gaming and DeFi will continue to blur, leading to new economic models and greater player empowerment. Web3 gaming will become a key pillar of the gaming industry, driving innovation and engagement.
What’s the endgame for PlayShutdown — your grand vision for it?
The grand vision for PlayShutdown is to create a vibrant, player-driven ecosystem that extends beyond a single game. We aim to build a platform that supports multiple titles under the Shutdown IP, each offering unique experiences interconnected through a common Web3 infrastructure. Our goal is to redefine what Web3 games can achieve, combining cutting-edge technology with deeply engaging gameplay to set a new industry standard.
When do you anticipate a full release of the game?
We are currently in the beta stage of development and anticipate a full release in Q4 of this year. Our team is working diligently to ensure that PlayShutdown meets our high standards and provides an exceptional experience for our players.
Is there anything you’d like to add?
I’d like to emphasize that PlayShutdown is not just a game but a community-driven project. We value player feedback and participation, and we are committed to evolving the game in collaboration with our community. We invite everyone to join us on this exciting journey and help shape the future of Web3 gaming.
Where can our readers find you?
You can find more information about PlayShutdown and stay updated on our progress through our official website and social media channels. We encourage everyone to join our community on Discord and Twitter to stay engaged and be part of our exciting journey.
If you liked this interview, check out our others:
- Sniper Spotlight with Money-B from Digital Underground
- Sniper Spotlight with Kristal Gruevski from Zivoe
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