Google Play Officially Allows Blockchain-Based Apps, NFT Games — But There’s a Catch

Google Play is now easing its policies regarding blockchain-related apps. As it updated its store policy, Google Play unveiled new rules allowing and regulating blockchain games and apps, which are set to completely roll out before the year ends.

The move is the company's response to the growing interest in tokenized digital assets, such as non-fungible tokens (NFTs). The latest policy change will allow apps and games that incorporate NFTs into the store. It will open new ways to transact with NFTs and other tokenized digital assets within apps and games on Google Play.

Google Play Changes Policy For Blockchain-Based Apps

In a blog post, Joseph Mills, Group Product Manager of Google Play, said that the Play Store is expanding on these offerings to create more engaging and immersive digital experiences for users.

"Today, we're pleased to share that we're updating our policy to open new ways to transact blockchain-based digital content within apps and games on Google Play," said Mills. "From reimagining traditional games with user-owned content to boosting user loyalty through unique NFT rewards, we're excited to see creative in-app experiences flourish and help developers expand their businesses."

NFTs, Digital Assets Come with a Catch

However, the policy change comes with a few limitations. According to Mills, apps must be "transparent with users about tokenized digital assets," and developers are not allowed to "promote or glamorize any potential earning from playing or trading activities," Tech Crunch reported.

Moreover, if the apps have not met gambling eligibility requirements, they "cannot accept money for a chance to win assets of unknown real-world monetary value, including NFTs." This is in line with Google Play's Real-Money Gambling, Games, and Contests policy

Blockchain, NFT Games Before

NFT games were massive during the 2021 pandemic, with these being the new craze in the world of entertainment and the blockchain industry. Not only that, it has also been a significant avenue for gamers to earn.

With their long hours of play and effort, they receive collectibles that can then be traded into cryptocurrencies and withdrawn. However, not all platforms are fond of NFT games and anything related to the blockchain.

Valve's Steam is one of the most restrictive, as it banned the NFT games before and only reserved its platform to feature those who offer entertainment experiences. With this, the company got an open letter from developers and fans who wished to have this ban lifted.

While NFT games' popularity died down a little, especially with the cryptocurrency industry seeing a significant mixed performance that has long affected its prices, there is not much buzz about it. However, it may see a turnaround as Google Play recently updated its policies to allow blockchain-based apps.

"We really appreciate Google's partnership in this collaborative effort to bring about innovation in this space and move these new economies forward. We think these new policies are steps forward for both players and developers alike and will positively impact the adoption of new technology while also protecting consumers," said John Linden, CEO of Mythical Games.