Launch and Platform
Genopets was launched in 2021 as the first Move-to-Earn (M2E) NFT game built on the Solana blockchain. Developed by Monarch Gaming and co-founded by CEO Albert Chen, it emphasizes fast, low-cost transactions due to Solana’s efficiency. Following its 2022 alpha release, the game’s core feature has been its step-tracking mechanics, which integrates real-world movement into gameplay.
Core Gameplay Mechanics
Genopets blends physical activity with pet-based gameplay, encouraging users to nurture and evolve their Genopet through their real-world steps. This movement translates into in-game Energy that players use for actions such as leveling up pets, crafting, and engaging in battles. Recent updates have introduced more ways to interact with Genopets, including PvE battles, daily step challenges, and new activities that further incentivize movement and engagement.
Move-to-Earn System
The Move-to-Earn system remains at the heart of Genopets. As players walk or run, their steps are tracked and converted into Energy, which can be used in various in-game activities. This system integrates with wearables like Google Fit and Apple Health, promoting a healthy lifestyle by rewarding physical activity with in-game currency and progression. The game’s dual-token economy has also expanded, allowing players to earn more from their daily activity through regular in-game challenges.
Dual Token Economy
Genopets operates on a dual-token system:
- $GENE: The governance and staking token, used for voting on game updates and participating in special in-game events. It also provides rewards like early access to beta features and exclusive NFT sales.
- $KI: The in-game utility token, which players earn by converting their steps into Energy. $KI is essential for crafting items, evolving pets, and upgrading Habitats. New updates have refined the use of $KI, allowing it to be used more efficiently for crafting and.
Habitats and Crafting
Habitats are vital to Genopets’ economy, serving as homes for Genopets where players can craft items and harvest $KI. These Habitats can be upgraded to enhance resource production, and players can either rent out their Habitats or expand them through terraforming. In recent updates, players have gained more control over crafting items, crystals, and power-ups, and they can now trade crafted items through the new in-game marketplace.
Battle System and Pixelton Arena
The battle mechanics in Genopets have evolved, featuring turn-based combat and a retro-style experience through the Pixelton Arena. Players can now challenge others in strategy-based battles, enhancing their gameplay by earning Energy and climbing leaderboards. Additionally, new PvE modes allow players to battle NPCs and bosses, increasing XP for their Genopets.
Innovative Features
Genopets continues to push the boundaries of blockchain integration by combining Web3 technology with traditional gaming experiences. The game now includes a player-to-player (P2P) marketplace, where players can trade items and Augments within the game’s app, enhancing the player-driven economy. This marketplace update ensures that even players without extensive Web3 knowledge can participate in the game’s ecosystem.
The recent Arcade Mode introduces mini-games, such as a racing challenge where players collect rewards while navigating obstacles. This mode has added a new competitive dimension, allowing players to earn rare in-game items.
Development and Team Philosophy
Genopets maintains a strong focus on continuous development, prioritizing user feedback and iterative improvements. The game’s development roadmap includes features like PvP battle mechanics, further customization options, and additional marketplace functionality. As the game evolves, the team aims to keep the player experience central to its development.
