**Title: The Rise of NFTs in Gaming: NFL Rivals Hits 1 Million Downloads**
**NFL Rivals Surpasses 1 Million Downloads in the App Store**
In a surprising move, Apple and Google have embraced the world of NFTs and crypto with the launch of the Web3 mobile game NFL Rivals developed by Mythical Games in collaboration with the National Football League. Since its release, the free-to-play football-themed game has surpassed 1 million downloads, as reported by CoinDesk.
**Mythical Games’ Innovative Approach to Blockchain Adoption**
While blockchain technology and NFTs have been hyped as the future of gaming, few companies have successfully integrated them into their games like Mythical Games. NFL Rivals allows users to purchase player packs featuring real NFL players that can be used in the game or traded, thanks to the power of blockchain technology. Despite the significant role of NFTs and the blockchain in the game, this fact is not explicitly advertised to players, according to CEO John Linden, in an interview with Fortune.
**Engagement and Fun Gameplay: NFL Rivals Receives Rave Reviews**
Apart from the impressive download numbers, what stands out is the game’s outstanding rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on Apple’s App Store. This high rating signals that NFL Rivals is a truly engaging and enjoyable game to play. Linden is particularly pleased with this response and considers it a testament to the game’s quality, rather than simply banking on the NFT and blockchain features.
**The Secret Success of NFT Adoption: Appeals to Non-Crypto Players**
Despite blockchain and NFTs being integral to the game mechanics, Linden estimates that only 10% of players engage with the game’s market to trade NFT player packs. He believes that the majority of players are unaware of NFTs, blockchain, or crypto, and yet, they still enjoy playing the game. This discovery emphasizes the potential of NFT adoption by appealing to a wider audience who may not have any prior knowledge or interest in crypto.
**No, Eminem Did Not Sell His Bored Ape NFT**
Viral misinformation spread like wildfire on crypto Twitter after a tweet claimed that rapper Eminem had sold his Bored Ape NFT. The tweet garnered 2 million views and thousands of likes, leading many to believe that NFTs were on the decline. However, it was later clarified that the NFT in question did not belong to Eminem. While it bore a striking resemblance to his Bored Ape, Eminem’s actual NFT, BAYC #9055, has not been sold for over a year. As of the latest update, the highest offer for Eminem’s Bored Ape on OpenSea stands at around 36 Ether, equivalent to just under $70,000.
**Other Noteworthy Updates in the NFT and Crypto Sphere**
1. **Wimbledon to Utilize A.I.-Generated Commentary:** IBM has partnered with Wimbledon organizers to incorporate A.I.-generated commentary and analysis for players on its online platforms. The use of WatsonX A.I. technology will enhance the viewing experience for tennis fans during the tournament.
2. **Bundesnachrichtendienst’s NFT Collection Sells Out:** The foreign intelligence service of Germany, the Bundesnachrichtendienst, launched an NFT collection featuring a series of 999 cartoon German Shepherds. The collection aimed to engage the Web3 community and generate interest in the agency as an employer.
3. **Binance Collaborates with Cristiano Ronaldo:** Binance announced its second NFT collaboration with Portuguese soccer legend Cristiano Ronaldo. Titled “ForeverCR7: The GOAT,” the collection will include 29,000 NFTs and artwork showcasing 20 of his most memorable goals.
4. **Anichess Secures $1.5 Million Funding:** Chess-inspired crypto game Anichess, a subsidiary of Animoca Brands, recently raised $1.5 million in funding to continue its development. The game is expected to release a playable test version in early 2024.
In the rapidly evolving world of NFTs and the metaverse, NFL Rivals’ success demonstrates the appeal of incorporating blockchain technology and NFTs into mainstream gaming. Moreover, the misconception surrounding Eminem’s alleged NFT sale highlights the need for greater accuracy and fact-checking within the crypto community. As the NFT space continues to evolve, partnerships between major institutions like Wimbledon and the utilization of A.I. technologies bring further innovation and engagement to the industry. With Binance’s collaboration with Cristiano Ronaldo and the funding secured by Anichess, the NFT and crypto sector show no signs of slowing down.
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