Joonmo Kwon, a veteran of the South Korean gaming industry and former CEO of Nexon, has embraced the challenge of web3 gaming with his company, Delabs. Since its establishment in 2020, Delabs has pursued the integration of blockchain technology into gaming, aiming to merge traditional free-to-play models with web3 innovations like player ownership and decentralized assets. Kwon recently discussed his journey into web3 and his vision for the future of the space.
The Journey to web3
Kwon pivoted to web3 in late 2021, securing $12 million in funding to date. His team launched Rumble Racing Star, a kart-racing game with web3 integration, on PC and mobile platforms in 2023. The game's engaging mechanics and "challenge-to-earn" model attracted nearly 10,000 daily active players who have completed over 2.4 million races.
Despite the initial success, Kwon acknowledges that web3 gaming faces hurdles in achieving mainstream adoption, particularly in the Western market. Issues like friction in accessing web3 features, complex onboarding processes, and a lack of robust marketing strategies have slowed its growth.
Rumble Racing Star
Innovating Through Telegram Games
Recognizing the potential of chat platforms, Delabs has shifted focus to developing games for Telegram. Telegram's frictionless user experience and its billion-strong user base offer a fertile ground for web3 adoption. In July 2024, Delabs launched Giga Chad Bat, a Pokemon-style battle game on Telegram. This project is a precursor to more ambitious releases planned for 2024 and 2025, including RPG survival and anime-style games.
The company is also preparing the Delabs Platform Mini App, designed to simplify web3 integrations for Telegram users. Kwon sees Telegram games evolving from hyper-casual to mid-core titles with social, short-loop gameplay, leveraging features like friend leaderboards and community collaborations.
Delabs Giga Chad Bat
Balancing Free-to-Play and Web3
Delabs continues to prioritize accessibility, offering primarily free-to-play experiences while introducing optional web3 features through its platform. Players can connect wallets, access NFTs, and earn in-game tokens like Sport Value Tokens (SVTs). The Adventure Pass, an NFT-based perk system, grants players exclusive benefits, enhancing gameplay without alienating traditional gamers.
However, Kwon acknowledges challenges related to integrating web3 functionalities on mainstream app stores like Google Play and Apple's App Store. Currently, users must visit the company's website to unlock web3 elements, which adds friction to the gaming experience.
Delabs Logo
The Broader Landscape and Future Prospects
Kwon remains optimistic about the potential of web3 gaming. While the South Korean government currently prohibits play-to-earn models, Kwon expects regulations to evolve. He points to South Korea's history as an early adopter of gaming innovations, from free-to-play to esports, as evidence of the country's openness to future web3 developments.
Globally, Delabs attracts players from the U.S., Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. However, Kwon emphasizes that success depends on delivering smooth, enjoyable user experiences and meaningful player ownership.
Looking ahead, Kwon predicts a breakthrough for web3 gaming by 2025, with chat platforms like Telegram serving as a catalyst for mass adoption. He believes that once players experience the benefits of blockchain-based ownership and decentralized gameplay, they will be less inclined to return to traditional gaming models.
Delabs Two New Games Coming to Telegram
Final Thoughts
Joonmo Kwon and Delabs are charting an ambitious path in web3 gaming. By focusing on accessible platforms like Telegram via the TON blockchain, enhancing player experiences, and navigating regulatory and market challenges, Kwon aims to lead the next wave of innovation in the gaming industry. The journey reflects not only the potential of web3 but also the resilience and adaptability required to shape its future.
