Today’s blog post delves into the fascinating topic of interoperability in the gaming sphere, a concept that has generated considerable interest among gamers and developers alike.
What’s Interoperability?
By definition, interoperability in Web3 is the ability of a product or system to operate smoothly across different platforms in conjunction with other products or services. Interoperability can be described simply as the creation of a digital asset aka NFT since, fundamentally, only the creator has control over it.
So, what’s the current state of interoperability in Web3?
Technical Challenges in Achieving Interoperability
The prospect of transferring assets across various games is exhilarating. However, achieving this goal presents game developers with numerous technical challenges. Each game’s uniqueness complicates the development of a universal platform capable of working with all games. Furthermore, security and privacy considerations are critical in guaranteeing the safe transfer of assets.
Transferring assets between game engines, such as Unity 3D and Unreal Engine, also entails several technical difficulties. These engines use distinct file formats for asset storage, necessitating asset conversion before importing them into Unreal Engine. Additionally, Unity primarily employs C# while Unreal Engine utilizes C++, resulting in scripting language differences that demand substantial technical expertise for a smooth transition. Workflow, feature, and capability disparities between Unity and Unreal Engine could also pose potential issues when transferring assets.
Overcoming Interoperability Obstacles
Overcoming these challenges requires an in-depth understanding of both engines and technical expertise. Developers must address file formats, scripting languages, workflows, dependencies, and platform differences to ensure assets function properly in Unreal Engine.
Interoperability promises a more connected and dynamic gaming experience for players, but to realize this potential, game developers must establish shared standards and protocols for asset transfers. This consensus will facilitate asset movement between games and foster greater collaboration and innovation in the gaming industry.
The Benefits of Asset Interoperability for Gamers and Developers
The interoperability of assets provides significant advantages for gamers and game developers alike. Gamers can use assets from one game in another, creating a seamless experience as they accumulate valuable assets usable across multiple games. Game developers, on the other hand, can integrate assets from other games into their own projects, allowing for more engaging and immersive experiences across various ecosystems.
Numerous real-world examples exist, but before diving into long-term and visionary use cases, let’s start with two concrete examples that are particularly well-suited for innovation through interoperability: gaming and identity verification. These two sectors hold immense potential for growth and transformation.
Building gamers a truly open world
First, let’s discuss gaming. As one of the most beloved and profitable segments of the entertainment industry, gaming is renowned for its state-of-the-art technology and boundless imagination. The gaming industry has experienced exponential growth, with a projected market size of $435 billion by 2028. Developers have created intricate open worlds, endless platforms for self-expression, and engaging social experiences, constantly pushing the boundaries of this ever-changing medium.
However, despite being at the forefront of technology, gaming is hindered by a significant lack of interoperability among projects. Presently, even the most captivating experiences and well-funded ventures remain isolated adventures — even the most extensive open worlds aren’t genuinely “open.”
One of the most prominent limitations in gaming is the absence of a persistent digital identity. Gamers dedicate countless hours to cultivating their online presence — customizing every aspect of their in-game character, tirelessly earning in-game currency, and gradually building their reputation within their community — but their entire identity vanishes the moment they move from one game to another.
The Future of Web3 and Interoperability
The future of Web3 envisions a unified ecosystem where games and platforms can effortlessly exchange information. Achieving this vision demands cooperation among developers and platforms to establish common interoperability standards and protocols. As the Web3 ecosystem expands, we can anticipate more solutions and innovations facilitating interoperability between different games and platforms.
IBC (Inter-Blockchain Communication) is one protocol spearheading the push for interoperability. IBC enables the development of interoperable applications capable of sharing data across different blockchain networks. It allows arbitrary data exchange between arbitrary state machines, supporting a variety of cross-chain applications. The protocol comprises two layers — the transport layer (TAO) and the application layer — that collaborate to create secure connections and authenticate data packets between chains. Using IBC’s application layer, developers can construct cross-chain applications for token transfers, interchain accounts, non-fungible token transfers, and even oracle data feeds. IBC paves the way for a genuinely interconnected gaming ecosystem, allowing players to seamlessly interact with multiple chains and applications in a decentralized and secure manner.
Looking forward
The advantages and possibilities of Web3 interoperability are particularly noticeable in areas like gaming and identity verification. However, their impact spans a wide range of sectors that still rely on outdated systems and communication protocols. By embracing interoperability, these industries can unlock new opportunities and drive innovation.
In the rapidly evolving landscape of Web3 development, it’s crucial to maintain focus on the broader perspective. With new and innovative use cases emerging constantly, Web3 projects need to prioritize accessibility and seamless integration, rather than existing in disconnected silos.
Strong interoperability can be an essential component that elevates a promising proof of concept into a valuable tool with practical applications in the real world.