Space Nation aims to become the next Star Wars with its blockchain-based MMORPG and expanding sci-fi universe.
## TL;DR:
• Space Nation Online, a blockchain-powered MMORPG, has soft-launched as the centerpiece of a growing transmedia franchise
• The game aims to improve on classic MMORPGs like World of Warcraft with a Web3 economy that rewards players for both grinding and fun gameplay
• Space Nation’s universe includes animated shorts, planned spinoff games, and a TV series in development, as it seeks to become a major sci-fi IP
## A New Frontier in Gaming and Sci-Fi
Space Nation is boldly going where no franchise has gone before, combining blockchain technology with the expansive world of MMORPGs to create a unique gaming experience. Space Nation Online, the franchise’s flagship game, has entered its soft launch phase, marking a significant step towards realizing the company’s ambitious vision.
Jerome Wu, Space Nation’s co-founder and CEO, brings valuable experience from his time as a senior project manager at Blizzard Entertainment, where he oversaw World of Warcraft’s operations in China. This background has informed Space Nation’s approach to game design and economy.
“MMORPGs are a virtual society. There’s different types of players, different types of people,” Wu explained to Decrypt. “There’s a division of labor, and players will be free to choose what positions they want to be in.”
## Reimagining the MMORPG Economy
Space Nation Online aims to address a common complaint among MMORPG players: the feeling that gameplay can sometimes feel like a job. The game’s economy is designed to provide higher returns on investment for traditionally monotonous tasks, while still offering engaging gameplay for those who prefer action over resource gathering.
This innovative approach allows players to choose their preferred style of play. Some may focus on resource gathering and trading, potentially earning real-world value through the game’s cryptocurrency, CHR. Others can purchase these resources to focus on more exciting aspects of gameplay, such as guild leadership and galactic conquest.
Wu told Decrypt, “There will be a Web3 MMORPG game that will achieve a virtual economy at this level or even bigger. I believe this is very important for future human society, for the future gaming industry. Because the metaverse will come eventually, and [building] a virtual economy inside a real virtual society will be super special.”
## Epic Battles and Galactic Conquest
At its core, Space Nation Online offers players the chance to participate in massive space battles and compete for galactic dominance. The game is set in the Telikos Cluster, a distant galaxy where humanity has sought refuge after the destruction of our solar system by alien forces.
Players can form guilds and engage in epic space battles, with previous beta tests already showcasing conflicts involving 200 ships. As the game moves through its soft launch phase, these battles are expected to grow even more impressive in scale and complexity.
## Building a Transmedia Universe
While the MMORPG is currently the primary focus, Space Nation has ambitious plans to expand its universe across multiple media platforms. The franchise has already released a series of animated shorts, introducing characters like Zoey, who has garnered positive reception from early players and critics alike.
Additionally, a screenplay for a prequel TV show is in development, with acclaimed director Roland Emmerich at the helm. Emmerich, known for his work on sci-fi blockbusters like “Stargate” and “Independence Day,” brings significant credibility to the project.
Wu sees a unique opportunity for Space Nation to fill a gap in the sci-fi landscape. He noted, “When the U.S. and the Soviet Union started [the Space Race during] the Cold War, there were a lot of sci-fi IPs appearing. Now with Elon [Musk’s SpaceX] and Blue Origin, with all these rockets and satellites, there unfortunately hasn’t been a new [big sci-fi opera] IP. So I think this is a great opportunity for us.”
## The Road Ahead
As Space Nation Online progresses through its 12-week soft launch phase, the development team is focused on stabilizing the in-game economy and preparing for a global launch. Built on the Ethereum scaling network Immutable zkEVM, the game aims to attract both Web3 enthusiasts and traditional gamers.
The success of Space Nation’s ambitious project will depend on its ability to deliver a compelling gaming experience while effectively integrating blockchain technology. If successful, it could indeed become the next big sci-fi franchise, rivaling established properties like Star Wars in scope and cultural impact.
As the space race of the 21st century unfolds both in reality and in fiction, Space Nation is positioning itself at the forefront of this new frontier in entertainment and technology.
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