Sony has officially launched its Ethereum scaling network, Soneium, marking a significant step into the blockchain space. The network, developed by Sony BLS (a Singapore-based subsidiary), aims to bring blockchain technology to the masses, with potential applications in gaming, film, and music. But the big question on everyone’s mind is: Will PlayStation games integrate blockchain technology through Soneium?
What is Soneium?
Soneium is a permissionless Ethereum scaling network designed to operate in the background, enhancing user experiences across various industries. According to Sota Watanabe, Director of Sony Block Solutions Labs, Soneium could onboard “ordinary people” into the crypto world by seamlessly integrating blockchain technology into everyday applications.
Gaming on Soneium: A New Frontier for PlayStation?
While Soneium’s website lists gaming as one of its key consumer applications, Sony has yet to confirm any specific plans for integrating blockchain technology into its PlayStation ecosystem. However, the potential is undeniable. Iconic PlayStation franchises like God of War, Uncharted, and Gran Turismo could theoretically leverage Soneium to introduce digital assets, NFTs, or even play-to-earn mechanics.
A Sony BLS spokesperson told Decrypt, “We’re excited about the possibilities blockchain technology brings to gaming, but we don’t have any specific updates to share on that front at this time.” This leaves the door open for future developments, especially as blockchain gaming continues to grow.
Sony’s Blockchain Journey: From Patents to Soneium
Sony’s interest in blockchain technology isn’t new. The company has previously filed patents for tracking in-game assets using NFTs and creating “super-fungible tokens”—bundles of NFT-based in-game items. These patents suggest that Sony has been exploring blockchain integration long before Soneium’s launch.
Current Soneium-Based Games
While no PlayStation titles currently leverage Soneium, the network already hosts around a dozen blockchain-based games, most of which are in early development. Examples include:
- Derby Race: A “pick-to-earn” horse racing game available as a mini app on Telegram.
- OverTrip: A battle royale shooter that combines competition with staking meme coins and NFTs.
These games, though not developed by Sony or its partner Startale Labs, demonstrate the potential for blockchain-based gaming on Soneium.
Challenges for Blockchain Gaming on PlayStation
Integrating blockchain technology into PlayStation games isn’t without challenges. For instance, Off the Grid, a battle royale shooter available on PlayStation 5, tracks user-owned items on an Avalanche L1 blockchain testnet. However, its developers have admitted that crypto elements on the PS5 version will need to be “handled differently” compared to the PC version.
Similarly, rumors about Grand Theft Auto 6 incorporating digital assets have been circulating for over a year. However, Rockstar Games has banned crypto and NFTs in player-run Grand Theft Auto 5 servers, citing concerns over commercial exploitation and intellectual property protection.
What’s Next for Soneium and PlayStation?
While Sony has not confirmed any immediate plans to integrate Soneium into PlayStation games, the network’s launch signals a growing interest in blockchain technology. If Sony decides to embrace blockchain gaming, it could revolutionize the industry, bringing crypto to millions of PlayStation users worldwide.
Conclusion
Sony’s launch of the Soneium network is a bold step into the blockchain space, with potential applications across gaming, film, and music. While the integration of blockchain technology into PlayStation games remains speculative, the possibilities are exciting. As the crypto and gaming industries continue to converge, Soneium could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of digital entertainment.
