MetalCore's upcoming third Closed Beta (CB3), scheduled to launch on June 27, marks a significant leap forward for the massively multiplayer online game (MMO) developed by Studio369. This phase introduces a host of new features aimed at integrating both non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and Web3 technology into the gameplay experience.

Dan Nikolaides, MetalCore’s chief technology officer and a former software engineer at prominent gaming studios like Midway and WB Games, emphasized the game's approach to cater to both Web2 and Web3 gamers seamlessly. "We built the game to be accessible without needing a wallet, aiming to attract both Web2 and Web3 gamers," he stated in a recent interview with Cointelegraph.

The introduction of NFTs within MetalCore allows players to own unique in-game items that can be traded, thus fostering a player-driven economy within the virtual world. Nikolaides highlighted the significance of "blueprints" in gameplay progression, where players must actively engage to discover and scan rare combinations of vehicles and mechs to obtain these blueprints.

Furthermore, CB3 introduces SHARDS, an offchain currency designed to enable users to purchase digital collectibles using fiat currencies. Nikolaides underscored the team's strategy to balance the gameplay experience between dedicated players and those looking to accelerate progress through financial investment. "We’re trying to strike the right balance between those who are passionate about playing a lot and those who want to spend money to get ahead," he explained.

In integrating Web3 technology, MetalCore leverages a middleware layer developed in partnership with Immutable, aimed at enhancing in-game elements without necessitating players to possess a digital wallet. Nikolaides emphasized that this approach ensures the Web3 implementation does not interfere with the core game design, maintaining a seamless and engaging user experience.

Reflecting on Studio369's approach, Nikolaides expressed a deliberate strategy to grow MetalCore responsibly. "We want to grow slowly to ensure the game’s longevity and sustainability," he affirmed, underlining the team's commitment to building a robust gaming community around MetalCore.

In parallel with MetalCore's advancements, Ronin, a blockchain platform, recently announced the introduction of zkEVM, a zero-knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine blockchain. This innovation aims to significantly enhance user capacity and support game studio partners, showcasing the broader trend of blockchain technology's integration into the gaming sector.

As MetalCore prepares to launch its CB3 with enhanced NFT and Web3 capabilities, it stands poised to attract a diverse audience of gamers eager to explore new dimensions of virtual economies and interactive gameplay experiences.