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Tencent's Nexon acquisition

Tencent’s Nexon acquisition could reshape Web3 gaming and blockchain integration

https://icn.live/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Tencents-Nexon-acquisition.mp3
  • by ICN.live
Khaled Darwish

Tencent’s Nexon acquisition could reshape the Web3 gaming landscape as major tech meets blockchain innovation.

Reports suggest Tencent is in early talks to acquire Nexon, a South Korean gaming giant. While no formal deal is in place yet, the discussions hint at Tencent’s growing interest in Web3 gaming. Nexon, best known for its popular MMORPG MapleStory, has recently made headlines with its blockchain gaming initiatives.

Tencent’s Nexon acquisition, if realized, would give the Chinese tech titan ownership of MapleStory N and MapleStory Universe. These games are part of Nexon’s broader strategy to bring blockchain to the gaming mainstream. Both titles use NFTs to reward players, offering a blend of traditional gameplay and crypto-powered incentives.

MapleStory embraces NFTs and blockchain

MapleStory N and Universe launched NFT integrations in May 2025. The idea was simple: give players real ownership of in-game assets. This move aligns with a rising trend in blockchain gaming—using digital scarcity and rewards to enhance player engagement. According to DappRadar, games like these helped drive a 368% increase in blockchain gaming activity year-over-year in early 2025.

If Tencent finalizes the deal, it could amplify these gains. The company’s resources and global reach would bring more visibility to Web3 titles. Tencent already has a strong presence in the gaming world, owning stakes in Riot Games, Epic Games, and others.

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High-quality games are changing Web3 gaming

Nexon isn’t the only one pushing the quality envelope. Gunzilla Games’ “Off The Grid,” a AAA Web3 shooter, also drew attention with console-level graphics. Unlike earlier crypto games, it focused on gameplay first and blockchain second. This marks a major shift in the Web3 gaming narrative—from earning crypto to playing for fun.

Tencent’s Nexon acquisition could place it at the center of this evolution. Backing high-quality blockchain games with mainstream appeal could help overcome some adoption hurdles. Chief among them is the complexity of blockchain wallets and resistance from traditional gamers.

Tencent’s Nexon acquisition could push mass adoption

Crypto gaming still has skeptics, especially from traditional communities wary of mixing finance and fun. But with Tencent’s potential involvement, those barriers may start to fall. The company’s infrastructure and marketing power can simplify onboarding, boost user trust, and reshape how gamers see blockchain.

Tencent’s Nexon acquisition could mark a new chapter for Web3 gaming—where quality meets decentralization, and fun meets finance. All eyes are now on what comes next.

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What is Tencent’s interest in acquiring Nexon?

Tencent is exploring the acquisition of Nexon to expand its influence in Web3 gaming. Nexon is a major South Korean game developer known for MapleStory, a title now integrated with blockchain features. Tencent already holds stakes in several global gaming firms and acquiring Nexon would deepen its portfolio in both traditional and blockchain gaming. The move reflects Tencent’s intent to lead the evolution of crypto games by backing projects that combine solid gameplay with blockchain-based ownership.

How has Nexon integrated blockchain into its games?

Nexon launched blockchain integration through two new titles: MapleStory N and MapleStory Universe. These games allow players to collect NFTs that represent in-game items and achievements. Unlike earlier blockchain games that focused solely on rewards, Nexon’s approach combines gameplay depth with crypto elements. This helps attract both core gamers and Web3 enthusiasts. The company aims to set new standards for quality in crypto gaming by offering real digital ownership in fun, immersive experiences.

Why is Web3 gaming important to the future of the industry?

Web3 gaming introduces the concept of digital ownership through NFTs and blockchain. Players can now earn, own, and trade in-game assets, creating new revenue streams and investment opportunities. Beyond financial aspects, Web3 also decentralizes control, giving users more influence over game ecosystems. As quality improves and user experience becomes smoother, Web3 gaming has the potential to redefine the relationship between players and game worlds. Companies like Nexon and Gunzilla are leading this transition.

What challenges does Web3 gaming still face?

Despite growing interest, Web3 gaming faces several adoption barriers. Setting up a blockchain wallet and understanding crypto mechanics can be intimidating to new users. There’s also resistance from traditional gaming communities that view play-to-earn models as exploitative. Moreover, many Web3 games historically lacked depth and polish. However, with high-quality titles emerging and big players like Tencent entering the scene, these challenges could be overcome. The future depends on better design, education, and user-friendly platforms.

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