Studio369, the development studio behind the blockchain-powered open-world mech shooter MetalCore, has confirmed that the game is the first title built on Immutable zkEVM to launch on the next-generation scaling platform. "MetalCore's Closed Beta launch on Immutable zkEVM Mainnet today marks a big milestone for Studio369, as well as Immutable," said Justin Hulog, Chief Studio Officer at Immutable.
This breakdown covers the latest updates to the web3 NFT game MetalCore, including the studio's roadmap, recent funding, partnerships, Closed Beta 2, and the new $MCG token.
Closed Beta 2
MetalCore Closed Beta 2 gives players a chance to explore web3-enabled gameplay while earning rewards. Phase 2, officially called Mech Up, kicked off on April 9th, 2024, and runs until May 14th. A brief maintenance window is scheduled from April 23rd to the 30th for a special update.
Players can sign up for beta access through the provided link and watch MetalCore's social channels for enlistment opportunities. Holders of MetalCore Infantry NFTs get automatic entry.
Play-to-earn Marks and tokens
Closed Beta 2 introduces "play to earn" mechanics through Marks. Players accumulate Marks by completing missions, which can be redeemed for $MSG tokens, the on-chain currency within MetalCore.
A migration promotion encourages players to transfer MetalCore Infantry NFTs to the Immutable zkEVM network. Migrated NFTs become playable in-game and eligible for $MCG token rewards, claimable during the Token Generation Event (TGE) until May 14th, 2024, 3 pm PST.
The $MCG token functions as a staking token and enables minting items into NFTs. Players can trade $MCG for Shards, the in-game currency used for progression, cosmetics, and quality-of-life upgrades. The MetalCore team expects $MCG to launch shortly after Phase 2 concludes, though no exact date has been announced.
More about MetalCore?
MetalCore is a free-to-play open-world mech shooter with massive player-versus-player (PvP) and player-versus-environment (PvE) battles, deep crafting mechanics, and a player-driven economy.
Matt Candler, CEO of Studio369, commented: "During our first Closed Beta period, we saw first-hand how interested people are in our game, evidenced by our top player completing over 800 missions with a total of 13,000+ kills. Now, we're bringing even more fresh players into the MetalCore universe as more than 40% of our Day-1 users were completely new to the game."
The 'scanning' system lets players obtain blueprints from fallen enemies, craft new weapons and vehicles, and convert them to web3 assets for trading. With over 150 playable Mechs, Tanks, Aircraft, and Infantry units, plus hybrid first-person and third-person combat, MetalCore offers hours of gameplay in a vast open world.
Justin Hulog, Chief Studio Officer at Immutable, added: "Today, we couldn't be more proud of the progress we've made together to seamlessly integrate web3 elements that elevate the gameplay and strategy. We are excited to raise the bar with MetalCore and finally show a really fun, high-quality game that players can play right now."
Closed Beta 2 now live
The Closed Beta runs between April 9th and 22nd, offering both returning and new players access to new quests and in-game contracts. It introduces the Barony system, the game's version of guilds where users band together to share resources, fight under unique banners, and earn rewards.
MetalCore's Closed Beta 2 also brings advanced customization, dynamic missions, stronger PvE bosses with bigger rewards, leveling updates, new consumables, and regional deployment.
Web3, blockchain, NFTs
MetalCore delivers a captivating gaming experience regardless of players' engagement with web3 elements. While blockchain integration allows ownership of in-game assets as NFTs, players can enjoy MetalCore without any mandatory involvement in web3 mechanics or NFT purchases.
Studio 369 envisions a future where web3 gaming prioritizes gameplay innovation, community engagement, and technological advancements. MetalCore's full launch in 2024 sets new standards for immersive gaming experiences in the web3 era.
In-game currency $MCG
MetalCore United LTD has confirmed that MetalCore's native token, $MCG, will play a vital role in shaping the game's future, allowing mechs, vehicles, and weapons crafted from blueprints or looted to be converted to non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and equipped in-game.
The token empowers users to customize their gameplay and earn exclusive benefits and rewards while maintaining full control over their items and upgrades. By completing in-game social quests players can earn a special in-game currency called "Marks".
Another way to earn marks is by participating in wars between Baronies, where players unite, battle together, and engage in collaborative resource-sharing activities, complete with social quests.
Fresh $5 million funding
Studio 369 recently secured a $5 million funding round supported by prominent investors like BITKRAFT, SpartanGroup, and Arrington Capital. The funding round also saw participation from notable investors such as King River Digital Assets, Amber, Auros, Zeneca, Grail, Spirit Dao, LiquidX, Aggero, FatCats, Sonic Boom Ventures, Rarestone, Cypher Capital, Cogitant Ventures, EllioTrades and Citizen Capital.
Matt expressed enthusiasm, stating: "We are excited to see that some of the most prominent companies and influencers in gaming continue to share and support our vision of MetalCore. The additional funding will help us hone and sharpen MetalCore even further to deliver the most fun, engaging, and awesome experience."
Users who participated in the "Call to Arms" playtest will automatically become eligible to join the second Closed Beta, while new players and community members can sign up here, with detailed instructions on how to download and install the game published in a quick start guide.
What is Immutable zkEVM?
Immutable zkEVM is a Zero-Knowledge proof-based scaling rollup that is fully compatible with and equivalent to the Ethereum Virtual Machine, tailored specifically to the needs of web3 gamers and game developers.
Widely considered "the Holy Grail of Ethereum scaling" the zkEVM offers enterprise-grade security, massive network effects, lower development costs, and seamless interoperability with the Ethereum ecosystem.
Justin Hulog, Chief Studio Officer at Immutable, commented: "Partnering with Studio369 was an obvious choice for us - as soon as we saw the quality of the game, coupled with the extensive credentials of Studio369, we were sold."
More about Immutable?
Immutable Games is a global leader in web3 game development and publishing, backed by a world-class team who have proven track records of bringing games to millions of players. As the gaming-focused arm of Immutable, the leading web3 gaming company, Immutable Games has pioneered the world's first blockbuster NFT trading-card game Gods Unchained and is currently building the highly anticipated mobile RPG Guild of Guardians.
Alongside its own high-quality titles, Immutable Games partners with third-party game developers to provide them with best-in-class strategy and execution expertise aimed at ensuring the success of every web3 game deployed within the Immutable ecosystem.
Immutable Games is guided by its mission to redefine gaming for generations to come, by developing innovative and engaging experiences that empower players with true ownership, value, and creative expression.
