Introduction
The blockchain gaming industry is on shaky ground. As token prices crash and venture capital dries up, players are flocking to controversial yet entertaining Ponzi-like games such as Bigcoin. These games, while unsustainable, offer the thrill and clarity that mainstream blockchain games seem to lack.
Blockchain Gaming Faces a Harsh Reality
Token Prices Collapse Across the Sector
According to CoinGecko data, the total market capitalization of blockchain gaming tokens has plummeted by 68%, from $29.3 billion to just $9.24 billion. No gaming token currently ranks in the top 100 cryptocurrencies—a stark contrast to 2024 when six made the list.
Leading tokens have suffered massive losses. Immutable (IMX) is down 87%, Gala Games (GALA) has dropped 80%, and The Sandbox (SAND) lost 64% of its value. Even newly launched tokens like PIXEL (-98%), NOT (-94%), HMSTR (-68%), and GUN (-62%) have seen steep declines.
Investors Pull Back Amid Weak Gameplay
Web3 gaming projects raised just $91 million in Q1 2025—a 71% decline from the previous quarter, based on DappRadar data. The gameplay offered by most crypto games lacks depth. Critics argue that 99% of blockchain games focus more on tokenomics than engaging content.
“Most Web3 games don’t need native tokens,” says Jaxie from the GIA gaming community. “They’re often just marketing tools with no real gameplay value.”
Ponzi-Style Games Are Stealing the Spotlight
Why Bigcoin and Others Are Gaining Traction
Ponzi models, once seen as destructive to the crypto world, are being reborn as blockchain games. Bigcoin, for example, simulates mining tokens on Ethereum’s Layer 2 Abstract network. Players purchase virtual mining machines to earn BIG tokens, with early adopters getting the lion’s share.
Despite a sharp 83% drop in BIG token value just days after peaking on April 12, 2025, many players eagerly look for the next Ponzi-style game. The simplicity and predictability of returns—assuming no drastic price movement—appeals to many.
“You know exactly what you’re getting,” says Inspector, founder of Tokenize 360. “If the price holds, you can calculate your returns.”
Users Disillusioned with Tap-to-Earn & Airdrop Grinds
Frustration with other blockchain gaming trends like play-to-airdrop and tap-to-earn is fueling the shift. Users of Hamster Kombat describe the rewards as “dust” relative to time spent. Catizen players have voiced dissatisfaction with last-minute rule changes.
These flawed reward mechanisms contrast with the straightforward risk-reward setup of Ponzi games.
“They’re corrupted but fun,” a player said. “At least they’re honest about what they are.”
The Psychology Behind the Craze
The Thrill of Simple, Risky Rewards
The search for fast profits and high-risk excitement is driving users to these games. With most new gaming tokens dumping 70-80% upon launch, players are increasingly willing to gamble on risky games just to feel the rush.
“Game Ponzi titles give that thrill that others lack,” explains Inspector. “There’s a weird honesty in their setup.”
Are Ponzi Games All Bad?
While these games are clearly unsustainable long-term, some believe they serve a purpose. Inspector recalls that Axie Infinity was once labeled a Ponzi scheme—yet it brought millions into crypto.
“I’m looking for Web3 games that are scalable and creative,” says Iceyyy, founder of Gaming Daily. “Games that can grow communities and push the space forward.”
Conclusion – The Dangerous Appeal of Ponzi Games
The rise of Ponzi-style blockchain games like Bigcoin highlights a deeper issue: a lack of engaging, sustainable gameplay in the Web3 gaming space. Players aren’t just chasing profits—they’re chasing excitement and clarity in a market increasingly defined by complexity and disappointment.
Until blockchain gaming can offer more compelling, sustainable alternatives, Ponzi-like games will continue to attract thrill-seeking players, despite their risks.
