Uprising Labs, a multichain native yield Layer 2 blockchain built on Oasys Layer 1 and backed by industry giants like SEGA, Square Enix, and Bandai Namco, has officially launched the Web3 version of its popular nautical battle royale game, Maelstrom. This latest release marks a significant milestone for the company, emphasizing its commitment to blending traditional gaming with the innovative potential of Web3 technology.
Since its debut on Steam in September 2019, Maelstrom has offered players an intense tactical naval warfare experience, where up to 16 players engage in fierce multiplayer battles. The Web3 version enhances this already rich experience by introducing new in-game features, maps, updated graphics, and additional multiplayer modes. Players can now immerse themselves in the game as humans, dwarves, or orcs, with extensive customization options for their ships, including stats, weapons, and appearance.
One of the standout features of the Web3 integration is the introduction of blockchain technology to the game. “Not only will you sink other players’ ships and claim their loot, but also engage with the Web3 ecosystem by earning, trading, and upgrading digital assets in ways that were never before possible,” said Uprising Labs CEO Eric Vander Wal. This new approach allows players to truly own their in-game achievements, adding a new layer of value and ownership to their gaming experience.
To celebrate the launch, Uprising Labs has teamed up with the Ultimate End-gamers League (UEL) and Forthright Entertainment, a leading Web2 publisher, to feature Maelstrom in UEL’s Season 9 tournament. With a prize pool exceeding $1 million and up to $2,500 per match, this collaboration offers gamers an exciting opportunity to compete against professional esports players and win rewards such as Uprising points, in-game gold, and more.
Forthright Entertainment’s Ryan Waller expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, “We’re thrilled to partner with Uprising Labs to bring a new dimension to Maelstrom. This collaboration opens up exciting possibilities for the game’s future, allowing us to reach and engage with a broader audience.”
The tournament, which will run from August 23 to August 25, 2024, on UEL’s Discord, promises to be a thrilling event where players will battle it out to sink the most ships and claim victory.