The demise of tap-to-earn games might spell a new era for Web3 gaming. Notcoin, a leading player in the Web3 gaming space, declared the tap-to-earn model “probably dead” at the Token2049 event in Dubai. The statement comes as developers pivot towards crafting more engaging and socially interactive gaming experiences within the Telegram ecosystem.
Rethinking Gamification
Vladimir Plotvinov, co-founder of Notcoin, highlighted the unsustainability of tap-to-earn games, suggesting that developers are steering towards genres offering more than just financial incentives. “We’re going to see different types of games, as tap-to-earn games are probably dead because they’re not sustainable,” Plotvinov stated. This shift represents a broader trend where players seek entertainment and social connections over mere token farming. This follows a broader trend in the industry, as seen in Ethena’s partnership with TON to offer USDe to one billion Telegram users, highlighting the platform’s growing potential.
Just last year, Notcoin’s tap-to-earn game on Telegram soared, attracting over 30 million users in a mere three months. However, the initial excitement quickly waned as users hopped between games, extracting value before moving on. Co-founder Sasha Plotvinov noted, “Users who come to farm — their motivation is just to earn something. And with games, it’s more like I have fun, I want to play with my friends, and I want to play within a group.”
The Social Shift in Gaming
The new wave of Telegram games is gradually embracing a model where social interaction and fun take precedence. The Web3 economy, once the focal point, now serves as an “add-on,” enhancing rather than defining the gaming experience. Sasha Plotvinov expressed optimism about this evolution despite Telegram’s current lack of substantial gaming offerings.
Uliana Salo, head of design and product lead for NotGames, underscored the potential for exponential growth in Telegram’s Web3 gaming sector. “We believe in our chances because we already have a similar platform like WeChat and Facebook, which already have their game ecosystems,” she remarked, noting that while investor interest remains sparse, the user base is ripe for expansion. This optimism is mirrored in the broader industry, as detailed in our coverage of the compliance mindset shift in crypto firms, which could further bolster investor confidence.
Harnessing AI for Game Development
Interestingly, artificial intelligence emerges as a critical tool in this transformation. Vladimir Plotvinov highlighted the efficiency gains AI brings to game development, allowing for faster code writing and project delivery. Yet, he cautioned developers to pair AI with expertise and careful planning, ensuring robust systems capable of handling extensive user bases.
This blend of technology and creativity is pivotal in crafting games that are not only economically sustainable but also genuinely enjoyable. Salo echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for games to transcend monetary incentives and deliver genuine enjoyment.
Looking Ahead
The transition from tap-to-earn to more dynamic, socially engaging games raises intriguing questions about the future of Web3 gaming on Telegram. While the path forward is fraught with challenges—such as the need for more robust investment and development—the potential for growth is undeniable. As AI continues to streamline development processes, and as developers reimagine gaming experiences, Telegram’s gaming ecosystem could very well become a hotbed of innovation and fun.
As the industry stands on the cusp of change, the gaming community watches closely, curious to see how these shifts will reshape the landscape. Will Telegram emerge as a formidable gaming platform akin to its social media counterparts? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for certain: the game is just beginning.
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This article is based on: Notcoin says tap-to-earn ‘probably dead’ as Telegram games see shift
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Steve Gregory is a lawyer in the United States who specializes in licensing for cryptocurrency companies and products. Steve began his career as an attorney in 2015 but made the switch to working in cryptocurrency full time shortly after joining the original team at Gemini Trust Company, an early cryptocurrency exchange based in New York City. Steve then joined CEX.io and was able to launch their regulated US-based cryptocurrency. Steve then went on to become the CEO at currency.com when he ran for four years and was able to lead currency.com to being fully acquired in 2025.
