Introduction

The choice of blockchain infrastructure is crucial for the success of Web3 games, as it directly impacts performance, security, and scalability. Big Time, a Web3 game developed by Big Time Studios, has chosen Ethereum as its underlying blockchain. [1a] This report will cover:

• The alignment of Ethereum's features with Big Time's gameplay and economic model, focusing on smart contracts and mainstream adoption. [1a]
• The implications of Ethereum's transaction costs and scalability for player experience and future growth. [1c]
• The measures taken to enhance security and address environmental concerns associated with Ethereum. [2a]
• The potential for future interoperability and cross-chain functionality in Big Time's ecosystem. [1d]

Ethereum's Features and Big Time's Needs

Big Time leverages Ethereum's robust infrastructure, including smart contracts and programmability, to enhance its gameplay and economic model. [1a] The use of Ethereum's smart contracts ensures that in-game assets, such as SPACE NFTs, can be securely traded and managed within the game's ecosystem. [1a]

• Ethereum's mainstream adoption provides Big Time with a well-established ecosystem, making it easier for players to access and trade in-game assets. [1a]
• The security features of Ethereum's blockchain ensure that player assets are protected from potential vulnerabilities or attacks. [3a]

Transaction Costs and Scalability

One of the challenges of using Ethereum is its high transaction costs, which can impact the player experience, particularly for frequent in-game transactions. [2b] To mitigate this, Big Time has developed its patented Vault technology, which allows players to store assets off-chain, reducing the need for frequent on-chain transactions. [1h]

• The Vault technology significantly reduces transaction costs by storing asset records off-chain, only minting NFTs on the blockchain when necessary. [1c]
• This approach not only lowers costs but also enhances scalability, as the game can handle more transactions without being limited by Ethereum's current network capacity. [1c]

Security and Environmental Impact

Security is a top priority for Big Time, with the game undergoing rigorous audits to ensure the safety of its smart contracts and blockchain infrastructure. [3a] The environmental impact of Ethereum's proof-of-work consensus mechanism has been a concern, but the transition to proof-of-stake is expected to address this issue. [2a]

• Big Time's use of Ethereum's robust security measures ensures that player assets and transactions are protected from potential threats. [3a]
• The transition to Ethereum's proof-of-stake consensus mechanism will significantly reduce the environmental impact of the blockchain, aligning with Big Time's commitment to sustainability. [2a]

Interoperability and Future Prospects

Big Time has shown a forward-looking approach to blockchain technology, with plans to enable cross-chain functionality in the future. [1d] This move towards interoperability aligns with the broader trend in Web3 gaming, where players expect to use assets across different platforms and ecosystems. [1d]

• The potential for cross-chain functionality ensures that Big Time remains adaptable to future advancements in blockchain technology, enhancing its long-term viability. [1d]
• Interoperability will allow Big Time to expand its ecosystem, enabling players to use their assets in other games or platforms, further increasing the value of in-game items. [4a]

Conclusion

Ethereum's blockchain infrastructure provides a solid foundation for Big Time, aligning well with the game's requirements and future scalability. [1a] However, challenges such as high transaction costs and environmental concerns have been addressed through innovative solutions like the Vault technology and Ethereum's transition to proof-of-stake. [1c] [2a]

• The use of Ethereum's smart contracts and mainstream adoption enhances the security and accessibility of Big Time's in-game assets. [1a]
• The Vault technology significantly reduces transaction costs and improves scalability, ensuring a smoother player experience. [1c]
• The transition to Ethereum's proof-of-stake consensus mechanism will address environmental concerns, aligning with Big Time's commitment to sustainability. [2a]
• Big Time's potential for cross-chain functionality ensures its adaptability to future advancements in blockchain technology. [1d]

References

[1] Filippo Bertocchi. Big Time Studios: The Best AAA Blockchain Game? Coin Bureau. 4 Apr 2022. Available from: https://coinbureau.com/analysis/big-time-blockchain-game/

[2] Dean Takahashi. Big Time Studios is raising $21M to bring NFTs to game economies | VentureBeat. VentureBeat. 12 May 2021. Available from: https://venturebeat.com/games/big-time-studios-raises-21m-to-bring-nfts-to-game-economies/

[3] CoinMarketCap. About Big Time. CoinMarketCap. date unknown. Available from: https://coinmarketcap.com/currencies/big-time/

[4] CMO Intern. Big Time NFT Game - In-Depth Analysis of One of the Most Promising Play-to-Earn Blockchain Games. CMO Intern. 11 Mar 2024. Available from: https://www.cmointern.com/2024/03/big-time-nft-game-in-depth-analysis-of.html