Why Is CryptoKitties (Not) Gambling?

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

13 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

CryptoKitties (Axiom Zen 2017) is a pioneering blockchain-based game that disrupts the classic game model' [7] [8] [9] in a way that turns it into a gambling web application. As previous research has shown, its mechanics are almost exclusively based on chance [13], and the rest is mostly speculation with game assets [11]. This raises the question whether this game requires any skill, such as strategic planning. In my case study, I revisit the game system and perform a practice of playing it to differentiate between unpredictable (or "aleatory", as in [6] and decision-making points in the game. I argue that mapping the journey of a player should complement analysis of the game system to assess the balance between skill and chance in a better-informed manner.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 15th International Conference on the Foundations of Digital Games, FDG 2020
EditorsGeorgios N. Yannakakis, Antonios Liapis, Kyburz Penny, Vanessa Volz, Foaad Khosmood, Phil Lopes
PublisherAssociation for Computing Machinery
ISBN (Electronic)9781450388078
ISBN (Print)978-1-4503-8807-8
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15 Sept 2020
Externally publishedYes
Event15th International Conference on the Foundations of Digital Games, FDG 2020 - Bugibba, Malta
Duration: 15 Sept 202018 Sept 2020

Publication series

NameACM International Conference Proceeding Series

Conference

Conference15th International Conference on the Foundations of Digital Games, FDG 2020
Country/TerritoryMalta
CityBugibba
Period15/09/2018/09/20

Free Keywords

  • blockchain
  • browser games
  • crypto games
  • cryptocurrencies
  • Ethereum
  • gambling

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Software
  • Human-Computer Interaction
  • Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition
  • Computer Networks and Communications

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