The term “metaverse” has become more common throughout the second half of 2021. A metaverse refers to a digital ecosystem where elements of the virtual and physical worlds combine. It is the belief that one day the metaverse will represent an interoperable space powered by the internet and the upcoming Web3.
Metaverse projects have been under development for several years. Many have incorporated key elements from the cryptocurrency industry including blockchain technology, tokens and components of decentralized finance (DeFi). However, what has really spurred development is the integration of NFTs. Thanks to NFTs, users are able to take on a unique identity within this digital space.
What is an NFT Metaverse?
An NFT (non-fungible token) metaverse is a digital world that allows users to build, own, monetize and trade decentralized digital assets. These metaverses are built on a blockchain which then records transference and ownership.
Non-fungible tokens are digital tokens that are used to represent ownership of an item. Within the cryptocurrency sector, NFTs have been used to represent both digital and physical items, including digital art. With regards to the metaverse, projects have utilized the technology so that users can own parcels of digital land, avatars and other virtual objects.
While the ownership of NFTs adds a new element to these digital worlds, many projects are under constant development to further improve user interaction. Several projects are now pursuing solutions with both augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technology. Developers hope that technology such as this will enable users to interact seamlessly with these new virtual ecosystems.
Want to learn more about the world of NFTs? Check out our NFT hub here.
What is an augmented reality metaverse?
Augmented reality allows for the physical world to be incorporated and enhanced with digital objects. This is achieved by overlaying visual or auditory data over images of the real world. This type of technology was popularized by the Pokemon Go game, which was launched in 2016 by Niantic Labs.
When applying this technology to the metaverse, it is the hope of developers that the virtual and physical worlds can be combined. Instead of users being in an entirely virtual world, elements of the metaverse will be brought into the physical one. For example, digital assets, represented by NFTs, can be viewed within physical environments, such as one’s own home.
What is a virtual reality metaverse?
Virtual reality takes things one step further. Instead of overlaying elements of the digital world into the physical world, virtual reality creates an entirely computerised environment. Users of virtual reality technology are transported into a 3D world that can be interacted with. The technology is designed specifically to make users feel immersed.
Developers of virtual reality metaverses are looking to create digital representations of users within the virtual ecosystem. In the virtual ecosystem, users may be able to move, play and interact just as they would in the real world. By combining these virtual realities with NFTs, users will be able to swap avatars or different digital assets that they own.
List of top NFT metaverses
Here is a list of the most popular NFT metaverses, their platform and their token, if any.
NFT metaverse | Platform | Has own token |
Decentraland | Ethereum | Yes (MANA) |
Sandbox | Ethereum | Yes (SAND) |
Enjin (Metacity) | Ethereum | Yes (ENJ) |
Ulta | Ultra | Yes (UOS) |
Axie Infinity | Ethereum | Yes (AXS) |
Illuvium | Ethereum | Yes (ILV) |
Sorare | Ethereum | No |
Star Atlas | Solana | Yes (ATLAS) |
Polka City | Ethereum and Binance Smart Chain | Yes (POLC) |
Bloktopia | Polygon | Yes (BLOK) |
Our guide to top metaverse projects
Metaverse frequently asked questions
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