In contrast to the rumors of a return of the Parasite Eve series, Square Enix is instead creating Symbiogenesis, an NFT art project.
NFTs, otherwise known as non-fungible tokens, are unique forms of digital identification that get recorded on the blockchain for the purposes of certifying ownership and authenticity.
The big gaming publisher describes Symbiogenesis as a digital collectible art project built for fans for Web3.
This experience happens in a self-contained world that contains a massive cast of characters minted as collectible NFTs. According to Square Enix, you will be able to utilize the digital artwork as profile pictures on your various social media accounts.
Furthermore, you’ll be able to use your character in a story taking place in an alternate land. You, the player, will solve a mystery by completing missions that involve questions surrounding monopolization and resource distribution.
The publisher will begin to sell NFTs in spring 2023, in addition to the introduction of “a free browser service” for Google Chrome users. The web approach makes sense, given that major digital distribution platforms like Steam completely banned NFT games last year.
Most gamers have rejected the idea of NFTs as part of their experience. Last year, news surfaced that Ubisoft sold barely any of the NFTs available in Ghost Recon Breakpoint, the first title that employed blockchain technology. Several weeks later, an executive from Ubisoft went and claimed players would benefit from a marketplace where they could purchase and sell NFTs as in-game items.
It seems as though Square Enix is going to struggle to make Symbiogenesis successful. This is unsurprising, considering that the company plans to move in such a direction after the January announcement that it would start investing in blockchain games.
Square Enix sold off many of its Western studios and planned to use the funds for blockchain growth and more tech before walking back on the plan.