Ubisoft has surprised the gaming world by quietly launching an NFT-based game, Champions Tactics: Grimoria Chronicles, available only on PC. With minimal fanfare, this marks Ubisoft’s most ambitious step yet into blockchain gaming—a choice that comes at a time when many companies are distancing themselves from web3 technology. Here’s a look at what the game offers and why Ubisoft’s strategy stands out.

Champions Tactics: A Tactical RPG with NFT Collectibles

Champions Tactics is a turn-based tactical RPG where players assemble squads of three collectible characters, called figurines, from the game’s fantasy world, Grimoria. These figurines, representing various warriors, engage in battles that have been compared to Darkest Dungeon for their aesthetic and strategic gameplay. While the trailer doesn’t make it obvious, the game has a blockchain element, as players buy, trade, or forge these figurines as NFTs.

Blockchain plays a central role in Champions Tactics through its in-game economy. When players start, they’re provided with temporary figurines. To build stronger, permanent squads, players can buy NFTs from other users using in-game gold or cryptocurrency, or they can craft their own using the in-game “Forge” feature. Prices for these digital collectibles vary widely, with some rare figurines listed at staggering amounts—one “Swift Zealot” figurine, for instance, is priced at $63,000.

A Pay-to-Win Model? Concerns for Free Players

Although Champions Tactics is free to download, players might face limitations if they choose not to invest in NFTs. While it’s technically possible to play without engaging in the marketplace, the game’s focus on PvP (player vs. player) competition could place free players at a disadvantage. This creates a potential pay-to-win scenario where those who buy premium NFTs could hold significant advantages.

Ubisoft initially listed Champions Tactics with an Adults Only (AO) rating in its launch trailer, causing some confusion since the game doesn’t appear in the ESRB’s database of rated games. Ubisoft later removed the AO label, explaining it was included by mistake. Since the game is available only on Ubisoft’s own platform, they can avoid ESRB ratings, but this move raises questions about transparency and content guidelines.

Ubisoft’s Continued Bet on NFTs and Blockchain

Ubisoft’s web3 ambitions date back to 2021, though previous attempts with blockchain integration failed to resonate widely. In an industry where major players like Mojang and Valve have distanced themselves from NFTs, Ubisoft’s decision to go forward with a blockchain game may seem out of touch. However, Ubisoft claims to be committed to exploring new ways to enhance player engagement through ownership and empowerment.

The game is built on Oasys, a blockchain Ubisoft describes as “environmentally friendly.” Ubisoft’s Strategic Innovation Lab and Ubisoft Paris collaborated on Champions Tactics, reportedly aiming to give players unique, collectible assets through an open marketplace.

The reaction to blockchain in gaming has been mixed at best. Concerns about scams, environmental impacts, and a lack of clear benefits for gameplay remain unresolved. While Ubisoft’s Vice President of Strategic Innovation maintains that blockchain could provide value, the company will need to prove to players that NFTs enhance gameplay rather than merely adding costs.

A Rough Year for Ubisoft: Layoffs, Delays, and Mixed Reception

Ubisoft’s quiet launch of Champions Tactics could be a result of other challenges the company is facing. Ubisoft has struggled over the past few years with delays, layoffs, and pressure to deliver hit titles. Following the disbanding of its Prince of Persia team and challenges in other projects, the company’s decision to invest further in blockchain technology may be risky. However, Ubisoft believes its collaboration with players through beta phases and community events will help build a stronger game.

While Ubisoft’s interest in NFTs has sparked debate, the company seems determined to move forward with blockchain-based projects. Champions Tactics could be an early test of how well this approach will be received in the long run. Whether players will embrace the game or view it as another pay-to-win venture remains to be seen.