Play-to-Earn games have totally changed our perception of gaming. You're no longer playing just for fun; you're playing for money now. And we’re not just talking about virtual gold or equipment. We`re talking about real-world rewards such as crypto, tokens, and NFTs that have value. It’s a sideline for many, while for others a whole new lifestyle.

But not every project is worth your time. That’s why I put together this list. I believe these are the best play-to-earn games out there right now. Legit play-to-earn games with real communities, real assets, and opportunities to make money.

Understanding Play-to-Earn Games (P2E)

Play-to-Earn (P2E) games are built on blockchain technology and use tokenized assets. That means you’re not just grinding for nothing; you’re earning tokens, NFTs, or other digital assets that you can actually sell, trade, or use.

How does it work? Pretty simple, in theory:

Play a game.
Complete tasks, battles, or quests.
Earn crypto tokens or in-game items with real-world value.

All of this is backed by blockchain. Every item or token you earn is verifiable. You own it, unlike in traditional games where developers can nerf or delete your progress at any time.

That’s the power of crypto gaming.

Types of Play-to-Earn Games

P2E games come in a variety of genres. I think this is what makes the space so exciting; there’s something for everyone.

Simulation and idle games are ideal for casual players who want to earn rewards without constant grinding (think RollerCoin).
MMORPGs and strategy Games with deep gameplay and long-term earning potential.
Card & Battle games are perfect for competitive players who enjoy fast-paced action.
Metaverse games where you can build, explore, and trade assets in virtual worlds.
Puzzle & casual games are lightweight, but surprisingly profitable.

Each genre has its own mechanics and monetization systems. That’s why it’s so important to choose games that match your style and patience.

10 Best Play-to-Earn Games

These are my top picks right now. Some are huge, others are underrated gems. All of them let you play games to earn money, some in crypto, some in NFTs, some both.

RollerCoin

If you’re new to crypto gaming, RollerCoin is the perfect place to start.

It’s a mining simulator where you earn Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other tokens by playing mini-games. I love how simple it is. You don’t need any expensive gear or wallets to start. Just sign up, play, and start earning.

What makes it stand out is how it mimics real crypto mining. You build your virtual mining rig and increase your power by completing tasks and games. It’s quirky, fun, and doesn’t take itself too seriously.

You’re not gonna get rich overnight, but you will earn. And honestly? It’s addictive in the best way.

Platforms: Browser (no download needed)

Native Tokens: BTC, ETH, DOGE, RLT

Unique Feature: Play to simulate mining without risk

Try it if: You want to learn crypto basics while having fun.

Chainers

Okay, I can't hide this from you anymore. Chainers is probably the most colorful and inviting crypto game I’ve seen.

It’s a social metaverse based around NFTs, where players collect characters, design digital spaces, and interact with other players. It has a creative, Sims-like vibe, but you can earn in it.

You can use and trade the NFTs you collect in the game (they’re called Chainers). The ecosystem is expanding fast with a lot of creativity here. The developers have been providing a solid long-term ecosystem value and community focus. You receive a free avatar, create spaces, and unlock content through participation.

Platforms: Browser (mobile version in development)

Native Tokens: Chainiverse Token (upcoming)

Unique Feature: NFT customization and social gameplay

Try it if: You enjoy creativity, collectibles, and a friendly community.

Axie Infinity

Axie Infinity first made headlines in 2021 when players in the Philippines began to make more money from Axie than they did at their jobs. It’s a battle game in which you breed and battle adorable little creatures called Axies. When you win battles, you earn SLP (Smooth Love Potion).

Years later, Axie is still alive and on hype. Developers are rolling out new game modes and constantly working on economy enhancement.

Platforms: PC, Android

Native Tokens: AXS, SLP

Unique Feature: Breeding and battling collectible NFTs

Try it if: You want a proven P2E model with solid infrastructure.

The Sandbox

The Sandbox is like Minecraft meets crypto. You can buy virtual land, build games or experiences, and monetize them. It’s one of the biggest metaverse projects out there.

Big brands like Atari and Snoop Dogg have partnered with The Sandbox, which gives it serious clout.

Platforms: PC

Native Token: SAND

Unique Feature: Land ownership and content creation

Try it if: You want to build and monetize your own virtual world.

Illuvium

If you’re into AAA graphics and deep gameplay, Illuvium is your jam. It’s an open-world RPG with monster collecting, battling, and exploration. It’s still in development but already looks gorgeous. Unreal Engine levels of detail.

You earn by capturing and trading creatures called Illuvials.

Platforms: PC (console coming soon)

Native Token: ILV

Unique Feature: High-fidelity 3D graphics in P2E

Try it if: You’re tired of low-effort blockchain games.

Splinterlands

Card battlers rejoice. Splinterland is a fast-paced strategy game where you earn by winning ranked matches.

Each card is an NFT and has value based on rarity and performance. The battles are short, under 5 minutes, which makes it easy to play during breaks.

Platforms: Browser, Android

Native Token: SPS, DEC

Unique Feature: Short battles, deep strategy

Try it if: You like Magic: The Gathering or Hearthstone.

Gods Unchained

Another card battler, but with a different flavor. Gods Unchained puts a strong focus on balance and fairness. You build decks, battle opponents, and earn tokens you can trade. It’s built by former Magic developers, and it's noticeable to fans.

Platforms: PC, Mac

Native Token: GODS

Unique Feature: Play-to-earn with free starter decks

Try it if: You want a competitive game that rewards skill.

Alien Worlds

This one’s all about exploration and mining. Alien Worlds is a space-themed NFT game where you mine resources, stake land, and earn Trilium (TLM). It’s more passive than some games but still engaging.

Platforms: Browser

Native Token: TLM

Unique Feature: DAO-based planetary governance

Try it if: You like low-maintenance income and sci-fi vibes.

Star Atlas

Ambitious doesn’t even begin to cover it. Star Atlas is a next-gen metaverse game with space battles, faction wars, and an economy simulation. It’s still early, but the vision is massive.

It blends DeFi, NFTs, and Unreal Engine graphics. You’ll need to invest time (and maybe money) to get deep into it.

Platforms: PC

Native Token: ATLAS, POLIS

Unique Feature: Full-scale space MMO with player economy

Try it if: You love EVE Online or Star Citizen.

Decentraland

Another metaverse staple. Decentraland lets you explore a virtual world, attend events, build experiences, and trade land, all powered by the MANA token.

It’s more social than gamey, but there’s still a play-to-earn aspect through creation and trade.

Platforms: Browser

Native Token: MANA

Unique Feature: Real-world events and NFT wearables

Try it if: You want to explore and socialize in Web3.

Comparison of Best P2E Games

Game	Native Tokens	Gameplay Type	Earning Mechanism	Platform	Unique Feature
RollerCoin	BTC, ETH, RLT	Idle / Simulation	Play mini-games, build a rig	Browser	Simulated crypto mining
Chainers	Chainiverse	Social / Creative	NFT trading, engagement	Browser	NFT avatars and design
Axie Infinity	AXS, SLP	Battle / Strategy	Breed/fight Axies	PC, Android	Breeding economy
The Sandbox	SAND	Metaverse / Builder	Build & monetize land	PC	Brand partnerships
Illuvium	ILV	RPG / Adventure	Capture/trade Illuvials	PC	AAA 3D graphics
Splinterlands	SPS, DEC	Card Battler	Win ranked battles	Browser, Android	Short strategic matches
Gods Unchained	GODS	Card Battler	Win matches, NFT trading	PC, Mac	Free to start
Alien Worlds	TLM	Mining / Exploration	Stake/mine land	Browser	DAO-based game economy
Star Atlas	ATLAS, POLIS	Space MMO	DeFi + trading	PC	Massive metaverse vision
Decentraland	MANA	Social / Metaverse	Land trade & events	Browser	IRL events and digital fashion

Conclusion

The thing about play and earn crypto gaming is that it allows you to have fun and, at the same time, create value. I feel games like Play-to-Earn with crypto are yet to mature. We are only beginning to see what is possible. So if you're curious, start small. Choose a game that vibes with you, play free online games to earn money, and likely you’ll turn your hobby into a side gig.

FAQs

What games can you play to earn real money?

You can make money playing games like RollerCoin, Chainers, Axie Infinity, and Splinterlands by earning crypto tokens or NFTs that are tradable for real-world value.

Are play-to-earn games legit?

Yes, but always do your own research. Legit play-to-earn games usually have active communities, token utility, and real trading volume. Avoid anything promising "get rich quick."

How big is the P2E market?

As of recent data, the P2E gaming market is projected to be worth USD 24.4 billion in 2025 and continues to expand, with a projected 1.9 billion players by 2027.

Disclaimer: All materials on this site are for informational purposes only. None of the material should be interpreted as investment advice. Please note that despite the nature of much of the material created and hosted on this website, HODL FM is not a financial reference resource, and the opinions of authors and other contributors are their own and should not be taken as financial advice. If you require advice. HODL FM strongly recommends contacting a qualified industry professional.

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