It has become common knowledge that crypto has integrated into every sphere of life, including gaming. Gone are those days of limited use of Bitcoin and altcoin as blockchain technology continues to facilitate significant growth amid online gaming companies. Crypto enthusiasts now have a wider range of platforms and services to spend their digital assets, upgrading the use beyond basic tradings and money transfers.
Although it is not currently acceptable to buy games on most major gaming platforms, there is an indirect way around this process. For example, Steam banned using crypto and NFT on its platform in 2021. However, anyone who wishes to use their cryptocurrency to buy games on Steam can do that using a gift card purchased with the same digital coins. All thanks to crypto e-commerce store, Bitrefill, which provides a platform for crypto enthusiasts to use their holdings on gift cards and more. Interested persons can utilize this service to buy games on stream using crypto. This means that you need to purchase a Steam gift card, which can ultimately be used to buy games.
Interestingly, the process of buying a Steam gift card is easy. All that is required is to input the desired amount and choose the preferred crypto type. You can pay directly using USDT, BTC, ETH, or Binance Pay on the Bitrefill platform. The crypto-e-commerce service provider emails the Steam gift card immediately after the purchase is approved and completed.
Similarly, game enthusiasts wishing to buy games with cryptocurrency can go through third-party services. Some of these platforms accept crypto payment for PC games and, in return, give the video game key to the buyer. In addition, they offer an enhanced user interface for easy navigation.
Lastly, it is also possible to earn crypto through blockchain play-to-earn games as well as use it as a deposit method on iGaming platforms. In online casinos, crypto provides a fast, cost-effective, and anonymous means for gamblers to deposit and withdraw money. These sites not only accept Bitcoin, but also a wide range of altcoins. For example, James Fuller has compiled a list of Dogecoin casinos.
Brick-and-mortar outlets and online stores that sell gaming equipment and accessories have expanded their acceptable payment methods to include cryptocurrencies. Many of these retailers sell gaming equipment and accessories, which are frequent buys for gamers. Hence, another way to use crypto in gaming is to use digital currencies to purchase game accessories, consoles, gears, and more. With the widespread adoption of cryptocurrency, emerging websites and online stores solely accept cryptocurrencies as a form of payment for gaming computers, laptops, and other gaming accessories. Unlike traditional platforms where items are listed in fiat currencies, available gaming equipment is available in BTC or other crypto assets. And to top it all, the transaction process is simple and direct. Consumers are allowed to make payments directly from their crypto wallet, eradicating the complication of exchanging crypto for fiat currency and the expense that comes with exchange fees.
Gaming enthusiasts typically spend money on in-game purchases like new players, weapons, avatars, and more. Some online gaming platforms have made this process easier for players who want to make payments with cryptocurrencies. Although the acceptable crypto assets may be limited, the option exists to pay with selected virtual coins. In addition to offering customers a wider range of payment methods, in-game crypto purchases also provide faster and cheaper transactions in some cases. Moreover, the available crypto payment method makes in-game purchases more accessible globally, especially in regions where they have no access to certain currencies. For example, someone residing in the US may want to make in-game purchases for games developed in a different region where USD is not the legal tender. However, cryptocurrency breaks the barrier, making it easier to make such transactions without relying on credit/debit cards, bank transactions, or other forms of hindrance.
To cater to the global audience, some gaming platforms accept crypto payments for subscription and membership services. This gives more access to gamers who reside in regions with limited financial services. The payments are processed through crypto payment gateways, ensuring anonymity and data security. One of the perks of using crypto for subscriptions is its ability to maintain privacy. While traditional payment methods often require personal information, which cybercriminals can hack, crypto transactions are safer and anonymous, making it more difficult to fall victim to data breaches.
Some online platforms allow streamers and content creators to receive crypto donations. Gamers who wish to financially support them could directly send them funds in their preferred digital assets. The process is easy and direct. All that is required is for the recipient to provide their wallet address, which the audience uses to directly forward their financial assistance or support. The service is available on selected platforms such as Donorbox and Streamlabs. Alternatively, interested people could donate crypto through in-game crypto tipping.
The global adoption of crypto has caused a revolution in different spheres of life, including the gaming world. Since crypto appears to be here to stay, service providers have been exploring ways to integrate its functionality into every platform, furthering its adoption. At the same time, the government has intensified efforts to manage the use of all kinds of cryptocurrencies to curb illegal activities. Beyond the traditional uses of peer-to-peer transactions and as a store of value, crypto holders can also utilize their assets in the gaming world. With the current synergy between gaming and crypto, the world looks forward to more refinement in the entertainment industry.
