RIFTSTORM, a blockchain-integrated game developed by Confection Labs, launched alpha demo mode on Steam on October 16, 2024 and immediately took the top spot in Steam’s “Trending Free” category in the first three days I did. This achievement not only reflects the game’s early popularity, but also represents an important step in exposing players to blockchain-based games on a platform that has historically banned NFT games since 2021.
Engaging gameplay and new features
RIFTSTORM’s current alpha demo mode offers players a three-mission campaign and the option to choose from five characters known as Weavers, offering a glimpse into the game’s storyline and mechanics. Confection Labs emphasized that the game’s success was due to innovative gameplay features such as an expansive map, increased mission variety, and new playable characters. Two characters, Rook and Thistle, are introduced along with new crafting materials, blueprints, and systems that allow players to disassemble and craft weapons, adding even more strategic depth to the game.
In addition to becoming a top trending title, Alpha Demo also received a strong response from the community, earning a 92.9% positive review score. This score reflects players’ appreciation of the game’s detailed environments, advanced procedural generation system, and variety of dungeon actions that provide users with a dynamic experience.
Raise awareness through partnerships and rewards
Confection Labs also collaborates with popular content creators such as Twitch streamer Pokelawls, who has over 1 million followers. This strategic move helped increase the game’s reach and engagement levels, creating buzz among both blockchain and traditional gaming audiences. The developer revealed that players who participate in the demo phase will receive exclusive rewards, highlighting the incentive for early participation.
By offering these special rewards, Confection Labs aims to cultivate a loyal player base before full commercial release. The developer says the inclusion of blockchain-based rewards could ultimately add value as players progress through the game and participate in special events.
Global player reach and changing gaming trends
RIFTSTORM attracts a diverse player base from around the world, with notable participants from East Asia, Southeast Asia, Europe, South America, and North America. The game has great appeal across international markets, with East Asia accounting for almost 20% of the player base. Confection Labs sees this global interest as a promising sign for blockchain gaming, as traditional gamers are encouraged to use Web3 features, even if these features are secondary to core gameplay. This suggests that people are beginning to explore the benefits of
Future developments and blockchain integration
RIFTSTORM is scheduled for full release in the first quarter of 2025, and promises to introduce more immersive features and community events. While this demo currently does not include any direct blockchain elements, the developers believe that blockchain technology will act as a security layer in future releases and facilitate legacy-based transactions to facilitate player progression. It says it plans to document the situation and support results-based missions. It is unclear whether NFTs or in-game cryptocurrencies will be implemented, but Confection Labs has assured players that they will be eligible for future rewards and airdrops.
As blockchain continues to be integrated into games, RIFTSTORM exemplifies how the appeal of games can drive players into Web3 environments. Another Web3 game, Off The Grid, has garnered a lot of attention on the Epic Game Store and is one of the top downloaded games on PlayStation, and we’re seeing a similar trend in the acceptance of Web3-enabled titles. Masu.
Gameplay Basics: A Guide for New Players
RIFTSTORM introduces players to the role of Mythic Protocol Weaver, an elite operative tasked with protecting the occult world from cosmic threats. The game supports both single-player and cooperative modes, where up to three players can participate in missions together. The game’s difficulty level suggests that while solo play is possible, the best experience is often gained through co-op missions.
For new players, RIFTSTORM offers a detailed getting started guide. First, download the game on Steam and complete the tutorial to familiarize yourself with the storyline. When starting, players can select Weaver, equip primary and secondary weapons, and choose from the missions available at the HQ. The game’s leaderboards encourage players to take part in cooperative missions to earn rankings and prizes, and the Forge Center lets you craft weapons and improve your Weaver.
The “RIFTSTORM Global Co-op Leaderboard Competition” event is currently underway, with players teaming up and challenging themselves to climb the “Challenge Tower” as quickly as possible. The team that reaches the top floor in the quickest time wins.
A new era of blockchain gaming
RIFTSTORM’s alpha demo continues to attract a growing community, and the game represents a pivotal shift towards mainstream acceptance of blockchain gaming. By prioritizing gameplay quality while subtly integrating Web3 elements, Confection Labs shows how blockchain can complement, rather than overshadow, the gaming experience. With plans for more immersive features and the possibility of blockchain rewards in future releases, RIFTSTORM will be a title to watch in the evolution of Web3 gaming.
