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Solana Labs, the startup representing the founders and main developers of the Solana blockchain network, has announced GameShift, a new software tool that allows game developers to use a variety of third-party crypto applications to build their games on Solana or them to port to the network.
The announcement was shared exclusively with decryptwas created at a Solana-centric gaming event called PlayGG in San Diego on Wednesday.
The goal of GameShift—an API, or application programming interface, that connects software to the Solana network—is to provide game developers with an easy way to add a blockchain layer, or what is known as Solana Labs’ “ownership layer,” to video games.
Blockchain networks like Solana allow players to own their own in-game assets through NFTs and trade them through marketplaces. Traditional video games like Fortnite and Roblox that sell in-game items are typically closed ecosystems or “walled gardens” that don’t allow players to take or sell those items elsewhere.
“Web3 game developers need innovative technology to simplify and accelerate the game development process, which GameShift will achieve,” said Tal Tchwella, director of product at Solana Labs, in a statement. “GameShift is building the ownership layer for games and will offer developers a one-stop shop on Solana, helping them build faster and more securely.”
GameShift will offer solutions for NFTs and cryptocurrency custody, gaming marketplaces, inventory management, NFT mining, and credit card integrations to name a few.
A screenshot of the GameShift UI. Image: Solana Labs
“Developers recognize the potential of Web3 games,” Tchwella said, “but they need help navigating the fragmented landscape of Web3 tools and solutions.”
Solana Labs’ GameShift comes at a time when other crypto companies are also looking for ways to simplify the blockchain game development process and bring in traditional video game developers and studios.
Last month, Twitch co-founder Justin Kan launched Fractal FStudio, a three-part product designed to help game developers add crypto elements to their games. And Avalanche blockchain developer Ava Labs announced last month Avalanche Arcad3, a program that helps connect game developers with crypto companies.
Solana Labs said it plans to release GameShift sometime this year, but interested developers can sign up for early access through the company’s website website.