ANIMOCA STILL BULLISH ON BLOCKCHAIN GAMES, AWAITS LICENSE FOR METAVERSE FUND

Last updated: June 19, 2025, 20:07 | Written by: Charlie Lee

The future of gaming is evolving, and Animoca Brands remains at the forefront, steadfast in its belief that blockchain games are poised for significant growth. [ad_1]Blockchain-based games have been a hot topic in the cryptocurrency space over the past two years, accounting for considerable growth and daily activity on a number of protocols despite prolonged bear market conditions.Market research estimatesDespite the cyclical nature of the cryptocurrency market, Animoca Brands is signaling renewed optimism in the sector.Co-founder Yat Siu anticipates a wave of exciting blockchain game launches within the next 18 months, promising a revitalized landscape for players and investors alike.This bullish outlook coincides with an update on their highly anticipated metaverse fund, which made headlines in late 2025 and is currently awaiting the necessary regulatory licensing before it can fully deploy its capital.But what exactly fuels this optimism, and what are the implications for the future of Web3 gaming? In an unique interview with Cointelegraph, Animoca Manufacturers co-founder Yat Siu highlighted the agency s renewed optimism within the blockchain gaming sector and gave an replace on its anticipated metaverse fund which grabbed headlines in late 2025. Metaverse fund awaiting licenseThis article delves into Animoca Brands' strategy, the potential of blockchain gaming, and the hurdles that the metaverse fund faces, offering a comprehensive look at the company's vision for a decentralized gaming future.

The Enduring Appeal of Blockchain Games

Blockchain-based games have captured significant attention within the cryptocurrency space over the past couple of years. Yung, who is also co-founder of popular Metaverse platform The Sandbox, highlighted more robust check-boxes when considering Web3 gaming investments while speaking at the European Blockchain Convention in Barcelona. Related: Animoca still bullish on blockchain games, awaits license for metaverse fundEven amidst prolonged bear market conditions, these games have demonstrated considerable growth and maintained consistent daily activity across various protocols.This resilience points to the underlying value and potential of integrating blockchain technology with the gaming experience.What makes them so attractive, and why is Animoca Brands so confident in their continued success?

Key Factors Driving the Growth of Blockchain Gaming

True Digital Ownership: Unlike traditional games where in-game assets are controlled by the game developers, blockchain games allow players to truly own their digital assets, represented as NFTs.This ownership empowers players with the ability to trade, sell, and utilize their assets across different games and platforms.
Play-to-Earn (P2E) Mechanics: Blockchain games often incorporate play-to-earn mechanics, rewarding players with cryptocurrency or NFTs for their time and effort.This creates a new economic model where players can earn real-world value while engaging with the game.
Decentralization and Transparency: Blockchain technology ensures decentralization and transparency in game development and asset management. Related: Animoca still bullish on blockchain games, awaits license for metaverse fund. Animoca has conducted extensive market research on TON s wider ecosystem, focusing on the platform sThis fosters trust and accountability within the gaming community.
Community-Driven Development: Many blockchain games are developed with the active involvement of the community, allowing players to contribute to the game's evolution and direction.

These factors combined create a compelling value proposition for players, driving adoption and fueling the growth of the blockchain gaming ecosystem.The integration of NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) plays a crucial role in solidifying digital ownership.

Animoca Brands' Strategic Investment in Blockchain Gaming

Animoca Brands has been a prominent investor and developer in the blockchain gaming space, backing numerous successful projects and contributing significantly to the ecosystem's growth. [ Aug ] DePIN and Machine Data Can Change Web3 Cryptocurrency [ Aug ] Bitcoin (BTC) Price Crash to $50K Dashes Carry Traders Hopes CryptocurrencyTheir strategy involves identifying and supporting promising game developers and platforms that align with their vision of a decentralized gaming future. Animoca Brands co-founder Yat Siu expects a number of its blockchain gaming investments to come to market by the end of 2025. Blockchain-based games have been a hot topic in the cryptocurrency space over the past two years, accounting for considerable growth and daily activity on a number of protocols despite prolonged bear market conditions. Market research estimates that Web3 gaming pulledYat Siu's confidence stems from the performance of Animoca's existing portfolio and the potential of new projects on the horizon.Animoca has proven its commitment by expanding its portfolio of investments across gaming.What are the company's investment criteria, and how do they select the projects they support?

Investment Criteria and Due Diligence

Yung, who is also co-founder of popular Metaverse platform The Sandbox, highlighted more robust check-boxes when considering Web3 gaming investments while speaking at the European Blockchain Convention in Barcelona.Animoca Brands' investment propositions involve finding a mix of passionate teams with innovative ideas and solid execution capabilities.The company conducts extensive market research, analyzes the game's mechanics and tokenomics, and assesses the community's engagement and potential for growth.They look for teams with a clear vision, a strong understanding of blockchain technology, and a commitment to building a sustainable and engaging gaming experience.

Animoca has also conducted extensive market research on TON's wider ecosystem, showcasing their commitment to exploring and investing in promising platforms within the blockchain space. Animoca Brands co-founder Yat Siu expects a number of its blockchainA recent investment into Toncoin, staked as part of a validator agreement, shows how diverse and deep the company will invest into blockchain projects.

The Anticipated Metaverse Fund: Awaiting Regulatory Approval

In late 2025, Animoca Brands announced its plans to launch a $1 billion metaverse fund, generating significant buzz within the industry.This fund is intended to invest in promising metaverse projects and further accelerate the development of the open metaverse. Animoca Brands co-founder Yat Siu says the company expects some big blockchain games to be launched in the next 18 months while its metaverse fund awaits Animoca still bullish on blockchain games, awaits license for metaverse fundHowever, the fund is currently awaiting regulatory licensing in Hong Kong, which is essential for its operational launch. Earlier this month, Siu told Cointelegraph that Animoca was still awaiting a regulatory license in Hong Kong for its proposed $1 billion metaverse fund. The company continues to invest heavily inWhy is regulatory approval taking time, and what impact will the fund have on the metaverse ecosystem once it's approved?

Navigating Regulatory Hurdles

Securing regulatory approval for a large-scale investment fund in the cryptocurrency space can be a complex and time-consuming process. Blockchain-based games have been a hot topic in the cryptocurrency space over the past two years, accounting for considerable growth and daily activity on a number of protocols despite prolonged bear market conditions.Market research estimates that Web3 gaming pulled in around $4.5 billion in fundiRegulators need to ensure that the fund complies with all applicable laws and regulations, protects investors' interests, and mitigates potential risks associated with digital assets. [ Aug ] What the NYT and Washington Post Op-Eds Get Wrong About Crypto Cryptocurrency [ Aug ] BlackRock s Ethereum ETF Surpasses $850M in Inflows Within Two Weeks EthereumThe delay in licensing reflects the ongoing efforts to establish a clear and comprehensive regulatory framework for the metaverse and blockchain-related investments.This license will be a huge win for Animoca and show that Hong Kong has finally caught up with the west in blockchain investment.

Impact on the Metaverse Ecosystem

Once the metaverse fund receives its license, it is expected to have a significant impact on the development of the metaverse ecosystem. The value of Animoca s investment was not disclosed at the time of publishing, but part of the investment is understood to have been made directly into Toncoin, which has been staked as part of the validator agreement. Related: Animoca still bullish on blockchain games, awaits license for metaverse fundThe fund's capital will be deployed to support innovative metaverse projects, driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and accelerating the adoption of metaverse technologies. Animoca Brands co-founder Yat Siu expects a number of its blockchain gaming investments to come to market by the end of 2025. Metaverse fund awaiting licenseThis will help create a more vibrant and immersive metaverse experience for users and unlock new opportunities for businesses and creators.It's a bet that the virtual world will soon be as (or more) important than the physical one.

Web3 Gaming's Impressive Funding in 2025

Market research indicates that Web3 gaming attracted approximately $4.5 billion in funding during 2025 alone.This substantial investment underscores the growing confidence in the long-term potential of blockchain games.The funding fueled growth across various protocols, even amidst the bear cycles experienced throughout 2025 and 2021, demonstrating the sector's resilience.Where is this funding coming from, and what types of projects are attracting the most investment?

Sources of Funding for Web3 Gaming

Asset Managers: Traditional asset managers are increasingly recognizing the potential of Web3 gaming and allocating capital to promising projects.
Investment Funds: Dedicated cryptocurrency investment funds are actively seeking opportunities in the blockchain gaming space.
Venture Capitalists: Venture capitalists are providing seed funding and early-stage investment to innovative blockchain game developers.
Strategic Investors: Companies within the gaming industry, such as Animoca Brands, are strategically investing in projects that align with their vision for the future of gaming.

Types of Projects Attracting Investment

AAA-Quality Blockchain Games: Games with high-quality graphics, engaging gameplay, and sophisticated tokenomics are attracting significant investment.
Metaverse Platforms: Platforms that enable users to create, explore, and monetize virtual worlds are also receiving substantial funding.
Infrastructure Projects: Projects that provide essential infrastructure for blockchain gaming, such as wallets, marketplaces, and development tools, are also attracting investment.

The Promise of Big Blockchain Game Launches in the Next 18 Months

Yat Siu's expectation of major blockchain game launches within the next 18 months suggests that the industry is maturing and that developers are making significant progress in creating compelling and engaging gaming experiences. Animoca still bullish on blockchain games, awaits license for metaverse fundThese launches will likely showcase the potential of blockchain technology to revolutionize the gaming industry. Blockchain-based games have been a hot topic in the cryptocurrency space over the past two years, accounting for considerable growth and daily activity on aWhat can players and investors expect from these upcoming games, and how will they impact the broader ecosystem?

Anticipated Features of Upcoming Blockchain Games

Enhanced Graphics and Gameplay: Expect to see blockchain games that rival the quality of traditional AAA titles.
Innovative Tokenomics: New and creative ways to integrate blockchain technology into the game economy, rewarding players and fostering community engagement.
Cross-Platform Compatibility: Games that can be played on multiple devices, including PCs, consoles, and mobile devices.
Seamless Integration with the Metaverse: Games that seamlessly integrate with metaverse platforms, allowing players to transfer assets and experiences across different virtual worlds.

Potential Impact on the Ecosystem

These upcoming game launches have the potential to significantly impact the blockchain gaming ecosystem by:

Attracting a wider audience of gamers to the space.
Driving increased adoption of blockchain technology.
Creating new economic opportunities for players and developers.
Fueling innovation and competition within the industry.

Practical Examples and Actionable Advice

For gamers looking to explore the world of blockchain gaming, here's some actionable advice:

Research before investing: Thoroughly research any blockchain game before investing in its tokens or NFTs.Understand the game's mechanics, tokenomics, and development team.
Start small: Begin with smaller investments to gain experience and understand the risks involved.
Join the community: Engage with the game's community on social media and forums to learn from other players and stay informed about updates and developments.
Secure your assets: Use a secure wallet to store your cryptocurrency and NFTs, and enable two-factor authentication for added security.

For developers looking to create blockchain games, consider these points:

Focus on gameplay: Prioritize creating a fun and engaging game that appeals to a broad audience.
Design sustainable tokenomics: Develop a token economy that rewards players, incentivizes participation, and ensures long-term sustainability.
Build a strong community: Engage with your community early and often, solicit feedback, and involve them in the game's development.
Prioritize security: Implement robust security measures to protect your game and its assets from hacks and exploits.

Common Questions About Blockchain Gaming and the Metaverse

What are the risks associated with blockchain gaming?

Blockchain gaming, like any cryptocurrency investment, carries risks.These include market volatility, security vulnerabilities, regulatory uncertainty, and the potential for scams.It's crucial to conduct thorough research and exercise caution before investing in any blockchain game.

How does blockchain gaming differ from traditional gaming?

The core difference lies in digital ownership and potential earnings.Blockchain games give players true ownership of their assets through NFTs, and P2E mechanics allow players to earn cryptocurrency or NFTs for their time and effort. BTCUSD Bitcoin Animoca still bullish on blockchain games, awaits license for metaverse fund. Animoca Brands co-founder Yat Siu expects a number of its blockchain gaming investments to come toTraditional games typically lack these features.

What is the role of the metaverse in blockchain gaming?

The metaverse provides a virtual world where blockchain games can thrive.It offers a shared, immersive experience where players can interact, trade, and utilize their in-game assets across different games and platforms.The metaverse enhances the value and utility of blockchain game assets.

The Future of Blockchain Gaming: A Vision of Decentralized Entertainment

Animoca Brands' continued bullish stance on blockchain games, combined with the anticipation surrounding their metaverse fund, paints a promising picture for the future of decentralized entertainment.While regulatory hurdles and market fluctuations are inevitable, the underlying potential of blockchain technology to revolutionize the gaming industry remains strong. Animoca Brands co-founder Yat Siu expects a number of its blockchain gaming investments to come to market by the end of 2025. Blockchain-based games have been a hot topic in the cryptocurrency space over the past two years, accounting for considerable growth and daily activity on a number of protocols despite prolonged bear market conditions.As more developers create innovative and engaging games, and as the metaverse continues to evolve, blockchain gaming is poised to become a mainstream form of entertainment, empowering players and creating new economic opportunities.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways and the Road Ahead

Animoca Brands' unwavering belief in blockchain gaming is supported by the sector's impressive growth, innovative mechanics, and potential to revolutionize the gaming industry. Animoca Brands co-founder Yat Siu expects a number of its blockchain gaming investments to come to market by the end of 2025. Blockchain-based games have been a hot topic in the cryptocurrency space over the past two years, accounting for considerable growth and daily activity on a number of protocols despite prolonged bear market conditions. [ ]While the metaverse fund awaits licensing, Animoca continues to actively invest through its venture arm.Here are the key takeaways:

Blockchain games offer true digital ownership and play-to-earn mechanics, attracting a growing audience of gamers.
Animoca Brands is a leading investor in the blockchain gaming space, supporting innovative projects and driving the ecosystem's growth.
The anticipated metaverse fund has the potential to significantly accelerate the development of the open metaverse.
Web3 gaming attracted approximately $4.5 billion in funding in 2025, demonstrating the growing confidence in the sector.
Yat Siu expects major blockchain game launches in the next 18 months, showcasing the potential of blockchain technology to revolutionize gaming.

The road ahead for blockchain gaming is filled with both challenges and opportunities. Animoca Brands co-founder Yat Siu expects a number of its blockchain gaming investments to come to market by the end of 2025 Blockchain-based games have been a hot topic in the cryptocurrency space over the past two years accountingHowever, with companies like Animoca Brands leading the charge, the future looks bright for a decentralized and player-centric gaming ecosystem.As the industry matures and regulatory frameworks become clearer, blockchain gaming is poised to transform the way we play, interact, and earn in the digital world.