Ethereum NFT trading activity is rebounding thanks to OpenSea’s new rewards program and growing utility in NFTs.
After months of dormancy, Ethereum’s NFT sector is seeing signs of real recovery. Nearly 40,000 traders were active recently—approaching levels not seen since June 2022. This resurgence is driven by OpenSea’s OS2 platform upgrade and the rollout of its “Voyages” rewards system. This program allows users to earn XP by using the marketplace, likely as a precursor to a future airdrop.
Utility Is Replacing Hype in NFT Markets
Beyond rewards, Ethereum NFT trading activity is increasingly focused on real-world use and applications. Orange Cap Games acquired the Moonbirds IP, suggesting it may feature in future editions of their Vibes trading card game. These moves hint at a shift from speculative flipping to creative integrations. Meanwhile, Mythical Games’ announcement of FIFA Rivals—including Adidas-branded digital assets—shows how NFTs are infiltrating mainstream gaming.
OpenSea also reported its highest user count since 2022, coinciding with OS2’s beta exit. The convergence of platform upgrades, incentives, and developer activity is reigniting interest. It’s a far cry from the 2021 boom driven by pure speculation. Back then, profit-hungry flippers dominated the charts. Now, meaningful partnerships and in-game uses are reshaping how users engage with NFTs.
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More Than Just JPEGs
Gaming is proving to be one of the most powerful drivers of renewed activity. Inspired by Steam’s success with in-game economies, blockchain-based games are offering NFT rewards and real value. Mythical Games’ NFL Rivals was a case study in this success. With FIFA Rivals in the pipeline, expectations are high.
Ethereum NFT trading activity benefits directly from this shift. Users now trade for purpose, not just profit. That represents a maturing market dynamic. While memecoins have siphoned off speculative traders, the remaining audience seems more committed to long-term value.
Ethereum NFTs Regain Steam
IP acquisition is also adding momentum. Moonbirds is just one example of how collections are evolving into broader entertainment ecosystems. These efforts add credibility and stickiness to NFT projects.
If this trend holds, Ethereum NFT trading activity could continue its climb. Key players are no longer banking on hype—they’re building real-world relevance. Traders, collectors, and developers now have reasons to engage beyond short-term gains.
The NFT world may have burst its speculative bubble, but in its place grows something stronger: community, creativity, and utility.