Web3 Gaming’s Big Bet: John Smedley’s $30.5M Shooter on Tezos

Introduction

John Smedley, the gaming industry veteran behind EverQuest and PlanetSide 2, is diving into Web3 with Reaper Actual, an ambitious open-world shooter developed by his studio, Distinct Possibility Studios (DPS). The project, which integrates Tezos’ layer-2 blockchain Etherlink, secured $30.5 million in funding from major investors like Bitkraft and Brevan Howard. This move signals renewed confidence in blockchain gaming, blending high-fidelity gameplay with decentralized economies. This article explores Reaper Actual’s development, its Web3 integration, and its potential to reshape the gaming industry.

Reaper Actual: A New Breed of Shooter

Reaper Actual is a AAA open-world massively multiplayer online first-person shooter (MMOFPS) set on the fictional island of Marova, four times larger than Call of Duty: Warzone’s biggest map. Players take on the role of “Reapers,” elite mercenaries engaging in PvPvE (player vs. player vs. environment) battles, resource extraction, and base-building. The game, described as a blend of Escape from Tarkov and Rainbow Six Siege, emphasizes strategic gunplay and squad coordination. DPS, staffed by veterans from Riot Games and Blizzard, aims to deliver a polished experience on Steam, Epic Games Store, and reaperactual.com.

Etherlink and Tezos: Powering a Player-Driven Economy

The game integrates Etherlink, a Tezos layer-2 blockchain, to enable a player-driven economy where characters, skins, bases, and crafted items can be traded as NFTs. Etherlink’s scalability, energy-efficient protocols, and secure smart contracts support high transaction volumes, crucial for real-time in-game economies. Smedley emphasizes that Web3 features are optional, ensuring accessibility for traditional gamers while offering digital ownership through a transparent blockchain marketplace. This approach aims to bridge mainstream gaming with Web3 innovation.

$30.5 Million Funding: A Vote of Confidence

DPS raised $30.5 million in a funding round led by Bitkraft and Brevan Howard Digital, with participation from the Tezos Foundation, Hashed, Delphi Ventures, and others. The capital will accelerate Reaper Actual’s development, with a “Foundation” Alpha release planned soon, offering early access and tradeable onchain assets. Investors see the game as a fusion of MMORPG and FPS genres, with Bitkraft’s Carlos Pereira praising its “unique” approach. The funding reflects growing optimism in Web3 gaming despite past challenges with player retention.

Challenges and Opportunities in Web3 Gaming

While Reaper Actual promises innovation, Web3 gaming has faced hurdles, with projects like Illuvium and Shrapnel struggling to maintain player engagement due to declining NFT values. Smedley’s team aims to prioritize gameplay over financial incentives, addressing skepticism from traditional gamers wary of blockchain integration. By leveraging Etherlink’s fast transactions and low fees, DPS seeks to create a seamless experience. The game’s success will hinge on sustaining daily active users and delivering on its ambitious vision.

Conclusion: A Game-Changer for Web3?

John Smedley’s Reaper Actual represents a bold step for Web3 gaming, backed by $30.5 million and a veteran team with a track record of iconic titles. By integrating Tezos’ Etherlink blockchain, the game offers a player-driven economy while prioritizing fun over financialization. As DPS prepares for its alpha release, the industry watches closely to see if Reaper Actual can overcome Web3’s challenges and attract millions of players. This project could redefine how blockchain and gaming intersect, paving the way for a new era of immersive, decentralized experiences.