Online chess platform, Immortal Game, an has announced the removal of its cryptocurrency token and “play-to-earn” features. This action follows the realization that these crypto aspects were promoting cheating among players.
The platform, initially integrated with the Ethereum scaling network Immutable X, is discontinuing its Checkmate (CMT) token. It’s closing its NFT marketplace, erasing all crypto-related content on its site, and ending crypto rewards in tournaments. These changes, announced in a Discord message by developer “Luxo,” have already taken effect.
Despite securing $15.5 million in funding, including $12 million last year from blockchain investors like TCG Crypto and Kraken Ventures, Immortal Game is withdrawing from the crypto world. This shift is in line with recent market dynamics, highlighted by a 73% drop in CMT’s value this year.
The decision to eliminate crypto features stemmed from a spike in cheating on the platform. Luxo noted that while the intention was to benefit the community, these features led to increased dishonest practices, largely due to the game’s accessibility and substantial cash rewards.
Immortal’s chess piece NFTs will still be functional in the game’s “Immortal mode.” However, players will need to visit the Immutable marketplace and website for managing or trading these NFTs. Users with custodial wallets are also advised to move their assets to self-custodial crypto wallets.
The official Discord post stated:
“The unintended consequence of offering money to players has increased the unfair practices, and we have decided that we cannot stand by and let this cheating happen any longer. While we’ll still explore Web3 and decentralized technologies, particularly for anti-cheat measures and community engagement, our primary drive is to advance our chess platform, ensuring a fair and enjoyable environment for all players.”