Understanding the distinction between blockchain assets and items is essential in blockchain gaming. While both are on-chain objects, they serve different purposes in gameplay and player ownership.
Blockchain Assets
A blockchain asset is a broad category that covers nearly every type of on-chain game object or character. This can range from items like a sword or gun, to real estate such as a house or castle, to vehicles like starships or carriages. It also includes creatures such as dragons or horses, as well as player and non-player characters (NPCs), including companions or sidekicks.
Blockchain assets may be either non-fungible (unique, one-of-a-kind tokens) or multi-tokens (multiple supply under one token class). These assets can carry two types of value: intrinsic and backed value.
Intrinsic Value
Intrinsic value reflects the desirability or usefulness of an asset. Several factors can influence it:
Rarity – Scarcer assets often hold more value.
History – Ownership or usage can increase appeal, for example, if an asset was used in an epic battle or owned by a famous player.
Player input – Custom-built or created assets, such as a house built by a skilled builder or an in-game painting, may carry greater value.
Utility – Strong in-game performance, such as a sword with exceptional power, adds value.
Multiverse usability – Assets usable across more than one game can be highly desirable.
In practice, intrinsic value often corresponds to an asset’s selling price in the marketplace.
Backed Value
On the Enjin Platform, assets may also have backed value. This refers to the amount of Enjin Coin (ENJ) infused or locked inside an asset. Backed value is fixed to the ENJ infusion and does not necessarily align with desirability.
For example, an asset can have little ENJ backing but high intrinsic value due to its rarity or history. Conversely, if a game loses its player base or shuts down, intrinsic value may decline, leaving the backed value higher. In such situations, asset holders may choose to melt the asset to reclaim the ENJ, unless it retains collectible or nostalgic significance.
Blockchain Items
A blockchain item is a specific type of asset designed for direct gameplay use. These are the objects that players or NPCs can pick up and interact with—such as potions, weapons, armour, books, scrolls, or clothing.
In short, blockchain items are a subcategory of blockchain assets. While assets encompass the full range of on-chain game objects and characters, items are the practical, usable objects within gameplay.
Key Difference
The distinction lies in scope and function:
Blockchain assets represent the broad category of on-chain game objects and characters.
Blockchain items are a subset of assets, focused specifically on objects that can be picked up and used during gameplay.
Intrinsic value is shaped by desirability and utility, while backed value refers to the ENJ infused into an asset. Together, these qualities define both the functional and financial aspects of blockchain-based game ownership.
Comments
0 comments
Please sign in to leave a comment.