The debut of the crypto-themed video game "Nyan Heroes" on Epic Games Store has turned heads, with the title swiftly climbing the ranks to become one of the top 30 most-played games. Within a span of two weeks, the game garnered an impressive 200,000 downloads, signaling a promising start for developer 9 Lives Interactive.

Encouraging Signs Amidst Pre-Alpha Release

Despite being in its pre-alpha stage, "Nyan Heroes" managed to capture the attention of gamers, securing its place among the most anticipated titles on the Epic Games Store wishlist. Max Fu, the creative director and CEO of 9 Lives Interactive, expressed optimism regarding the game's reception, acknowledging minor technical glitches while emphasizing the team's dedication to delivering an engaging gaming experience.

A Glimpse into the Mech Shooter Universe

"Nyan Heroes" offers players a unique mech shooter experience featuring feline pilots, powered by the cutting-edge Unreal Engine 5. While the current iteration of the game allows for in-game asset transactions, the integration of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) is yet to be implemented. Fu outlined the developer's roadmap, highlighting plans for a comprehensive in-game marketplace accommodating both on-chain and off-chain assets.

Towards a Full-Fledged Gaming Experience

Looking ahead, 9 Lives Interactive aims to launch the full version of "Nyan Heroes" on PC by early next year, promising extensive customization options and a vibrant in-game economy. Importantly, players will have the freedom to opt-in or out of blockchain interactions, ensuring inclusivity for all gamers.

### Broad Appeal Beyond Web3
Fu noted with satisfaction that a significant portion of "Nyan Heroes" players during the pre-alpha phase were not typically associated with web3 gaming, indicating broad appeal beyond the crypto community. Buoyed by this positive reception, plans are underway for a relaunch on the Epic Games Store to reach an even wider audience.

Epic Games' Support for Crypto Gaming

The success of "Nyan Heroes" underscores Epic Games' commitment to supporting innovative projects within the crypto gaming space. With previous listings of titles like "Shrapnel," "Illuvium," and "Star Atlas," Epic Games continues to be a catalyst for the convergence of gaming and blockchain technology.

A Promising Journey for 9 Lives Interactive

Formerly known as Rude Robot Studios, 9 Lives Interactive embarked on its journey in 2021, poised to leave a lasting impression on the gaming industry with its bold and imaginative creations.