Semper Fortis Esports PLC (AQSE:SEMP) announced the launch of its new blockchain-based play-to-earn gaming division, SMPR Guild.
Play-to-earn is a new category in video gaming that rewards players for winning and completing tasks with game-based tokens which are free to use in-game or convert into cryptocurrency and then into fiat currency.
The e-sports group said it will buy in-game items (non-fungible tokens known as NFTs) which are the characters, plots of virtual land, and weapons required to play a game and then provide access to these to active game players on a revenue share basis.
The players earn game-based token rewards by playing which are then split between the player and the company, a statement said.
The earnings split will vary game by game depending on factors such as time and effort spent as well as the initial NFT cost.
According to a statement, the price of the NFTs can range from between US$10 to US$1,000, which will “enable players who do not have the upfront capital required to purchase the NFTs to still be able to participate in games”.
As part of the launch, the company also enrolled gamers into the SMPR Guild scholarship.
It confirmed its first hire back in October, becoming one of the earliest teams to give a professional e-sports contract for play-to-earn games.
“The SMPR Guild is a community of players who regularly play together and collaborate for mutual benefit,” the statement said.
“The potential for substantial growth in the sector is significant; ultimately wherever there is an internet connection and a mobile phone, users will be able to find ways to create income by playing games,” said chief financial officer Jassem Osseiran.