Web3 needs Web2 users to sustain its growth, and Telegram offers a gateway for onboarding more people from the traditional web into a decentralized world.

Catizen is a Telegram-based gaming bot integrated with The Open Network (TON) blockchain, leveraging a play-to-airdrop model to foster Web3 adoption. Here’s an overview of its key features and impact:

Key Features and Functions:

1. Integration with Telegram and TON:
- Telegram Platform: Catizen uses Telegram’s extensive user base, nearing 1 billion people, to bridge Web2 and Web3. This provides an accessible entry point for users new to blockchain technology.
- The Open Network (TON): Utilizing TON, Catizen benefits from blockchain capabilities to manage in-game assets and transactions, ensuring a secure and decentralized gaming experience.

2. Gameplay and Rewards:
- Play-to-Airdrop Model: Players participate in mini-games through Catizen and receive airdrops as rewards. This model not only incentivizes gameplay but also introduces users to cryptocurrency transactions.
- Digital Cats and Meowverse: Players get digital cats that serve as credentials to access various features within the game, such as the Launchpool, where they can stake assets for returns.
- FishCoins: The in-game currency, FishCoins, can be earned by inviting new players and completing tasks. These coins can be used within the game or staked for further rewards.

3. User Experience:
- Intuitive Interface: The game developers have focused on creating an engaging and user-friendly experience, making it easy for users to navigate and participate in the game.

Impact and Adoption:

1. User Base and Activity:
- Global Reach: Since its public beta launch in March 2024, Catizen has amassed over 11 million players globally, with 1.7 million daily active users and around 750,000 on-chain players.
- High On-Chain Participation: Catizen boasts a 7% on-chain participation rate, significantly higher than Telegram’s average crypto conversion rate of 0.66%.

2. Economic Activity:
- In-Game Asset Purchases: Players have spent approximately $10 million on in-game assets, transacted in various cryptocurrencies such as Toncoin (TON), Notcoin (NOT), Mantle (MNT), and Tether (USDT).
- Launchpool and Rewards: Players can stake their digital cats and FishCoins in the Launchpool to earn returns, fostering an active in-game economy.

3. Future Developments:
- Token Launch and Mini-Games: Catizen plans to launch its own token and introduce a series of mini-games. Agreements for 18 mini-games with over 50 million downloads have already been signed.
- Expansion Plans: The project aims to become a comprehensive mini-app center, integrating short videos and e-commerce to enhance user engagement and interaction.

Conclusion:

Catizen exemplifies how Web3 projects can leverage high-traffic platforms like Telegram to onboard users from Web2. By combining engaging gameplay with blockchain technology, it not only entertains but also educates users on cryptocurrency and decentralized finance. As Catizen continues to grow, it holds the potential to significantly contribute to the mass adoption of Web3 technologies.

For more information, you can visit the official Catizen page or explore additional details on the TON blockchain’s integration with Telegram.