The way people play games has changed forever. The metaverse is no longer a buzzword; it’s a fast-growing space where millions of players gather, play, and even make money. In this article, we’ll walk you through 30 key stats about gaming in the metaverse. Under each stat, we’ll break down what it means, why it matters, and how you can act on it. Whether you’re a game developer, investor, or gamer, there’s something here for you.
1. The global metaverse gaming market was valued at over $14 billion in 2023.
That number might look massive, and it is—but it’s only the beginning. In 2023, the gaming metaverse carved out a serious space in the entertainment world. What’s behind that $14 billion figure?
It’s a mix of virtual land sales, in-game purchases, token economies, and digital events that bring real-world revenue.
For developers, this stat shows there’s a hungry market waiting for new, immersive experiences. If you’re building a game, now’s the time to add metaverse features—like avatar personalization, VR support, or cross-platform worlds.
You don’t have to go full sci-fi, but adding just one of these features can increase your appeal and market size.
For entrepreneurs, it’s a green light to invest. Startups that create tools for virtual worlds, manage digital assets, or build social layers are in demand. Think of things like virtual property management, avatar clothing stores, or security layers for blockchain-based games.
These are growing industries on their own.
And for marketers, it’s a signal to start crafting campaigns inside games. Ads on digital billboards, brand-sponsored items, or hosted virtual events are just a few ways to reach an engaged, young audience that lives and breathes digital life.
2. Metaverse gaming is projected to reach $60+ billion by 2030.
Growth like this doesn’t happen by chance. The jump from $14 billion to over $60 billion shows the pace at which innovation, adoption, and monetization are expanding.
That $60 billion projection includes new gaming experiences, social hubs, NFT economies, virtual real estate, and monetized user content.
If you’re a game developer or a studio, start planning long-term. Future-proof your platform by investing in scalable technologies—think Web3 integrations, decentralized hosting, and cross-chain compatibility. You want to build a game that isn’t stuck on one device or one type of asset.
For investors, this is your runway. Early backing of metaverse studios, infrastructure tools, or blockchain protocols will pay off as more users join and the economy deepens.
Focus on companies that are solving real problems, like lag-free virtual worlds or easier crypto payment systems for players.
Content creators, too, will see big opportunities. In a $60 billion market, influencers, streamers, and modders can turn their work into income.
Partner with platforms that support creator royalties, and build your brand inside games, not just on YouTube or Twitch.
The main idea here is timing. The metaverse is not a trend—it’s a growing economy. Getting in early, even with small experiments, will give you the experience and network edge you need later on.
3. Over 400 million people actively engage in metaverse platforms monthly.
That’s not a niche audience. That’s a global community almost the size of the U.S. population, showing up every single month in digital worlds. And these aren’t just casual visits.
Users are attending events, playing games, trading items, and socializing—all within immersive, persistent environments.
If you’re building anything digital, this is your new audience. For brands, it means you should stop thinking of the metaverse as a side channel. It’s a core platform now. People aren’t just playing—they’re shopping, networking, and even dating in these virtual spaces.
For game developers, this is a powerful retention signal. You’re not just attracting players anymore—you’re inviting them into a universe. To keep them, you need updates, events, and tools for expression.
The more freedom they have to create and interact, the longer they’ll stay.
If you’re a marketer, this stat screams engagement potential. 400 million people logging in every month means repeated brand exposure, user-driven word-of-mouth, and the chance to create immersive ads that people actually enjoy.
The advice here is simple: go where the people are. And right now, a big chunk of them are in the metaverse.
4. Roblox has over 70 million daily active users, primarily for metaverse gaming.
Roblox isn’t just a game—it’s a metaverse. With over 70 million people logging in every day, mostly kids and teens, this platform is shaping the next generation of gamers, creators, and digital consumers.
For developers and studios, Roblox is a testing ground. You can build mini-games, launch virtual products, and test new ideas without massive budgets. The platform has tools to monetize and a built-in audience hungry for fun, social gameplay.
If you’re a brand, Roblox is a way to connect with younger audiences in a language they understand—interactive, creative, and community-driven. From Nike to Gucci, big names are creating their own virtual spaces on the platform.
Why? Because this is where tomorrow’s consumers are growing up.
Educators and learning startups can also take note. Roblox is not just about play; it’s about learning through creation. Platforms like Roblox Studio give kids the tools to code and design. That’s a chance to build educational tools that don’t feel like school.
If you’re still on the fence about building for Roblox or similar platforms, just consider this: 70 million daily users means instant feedback, rapid testing, and viral growth potential—all inside a system that rewards creativity.
5. In 2023, gamers spent an average of 12.5 hours per week in metaverse environments.
That’s nearly two hours a day—every day—spent in virtual spaces. This level of engagement is a goldmine for developers, creators, and marketers. It shows not just popularity, but commitment. People aren’t dropping in; they’re living part of their lives in these worlds.
So how can you tap into this time? For developers, think beyond gameplay. Add social layers like voice chat, hangout zones, or clubs. Give people a reason to stay, even when they’re not actively gaming. These in-between moments are powerful for retention.
For product teams, consider what people want while they’re spending that much time inside. Virtual fashion, emotes, custom tools, and seasonal content can all be monetized without feeling like hard sells. Players want to express themselves and stand out.
If you’re a business thinking of entering the metaverse, this stat means you have room to build relationships—not just show ads. Host virtual experiences. Offer exclusive items. Run loyalty programs that live inside games.
The message is clear: 12.5 hours a week means this is more than play. It’s part of the daily routine. Design with that level of engagement in mind.
6. 67% of Gen Z gamers prefer immersive virtual worlds over traditional gaming.
This stat is a clear sign that the future of gaming is already changing. Gen Z, the largest emerging audience in the gaming world, is leaning hard toward immersive, connected, persistent environments. They want more than a single-player level or a basic shooter—they want digital lives.
For developers, this means your games need to feel more like experiences than just levels. Build environments that evolve. Include features like character stories, role-play systems, or dynamic weather. Anything that helps players feel like they’re truly “in” a world rather than just controlling a character.
For brands and sponsors, this is a wake-up call. Standard ad formats and pop-ups don’t cut it anymore. Gen Z wants experiences, not ads. Think virtual concerts, branded quests, or limited-edition wearables tied to real-world campaigns. Let users live your brand inside the game.
Education platforms can also use this shift. Virtual classrooms and career simulators can teach skills in ways that feel like games, but with real-world outcomes. Since Gen Z is already comfortable in these spaces, you’re just meeting them where they are.
The key takeaway is to build around immersion. Gen Z doesn’t want to just press buttons—they want to live, explore, and connect inside the game. If your platform doesn’t offer that, someone else’s will.
7. The metaverse gaming sector saw a 35% year-over-year revenue growth in 2023.
That’s massive growth by any industry standard. A 35% year-over-year increase means the business side of gaming is booming—fast. This isn’t just hype anymore. It’s money in the bank, and it’s happening quickly.
For game studios, this shows that adding metaverse layers to your title can significantly improve your bottom line. Whether it’s through NFTs, virtual cosmetics, or digital real estate, players are willing to spend real money on virtual value.
If you’re a developer, consider how to build revenue into your game without hurting the experience. Cosmetic upgrades, fan-driven content marketplaces, and subscription perks work well when they match the vibe of your game.
Monetization doesn’t have to be aggressive—it just needs to feel valuable.
For investors, this stat points to one thing: velocity. The metaverse is still young, but the money is moving quickly. If you’re looking to enter this space, now is the time to support infrastructure tools, middleware, and cross-game economies. These are the hidden engines behind revenue growth.
For marketers, 35% growth means users are spending. That opens doors for brand collaborations, influencer campaigns inside games, and even limited-time event sponsorships. Meet players in their world with smart, subtle product tie-ins.
Actionable takeaway: this is a high-growth area. Get involved now, or you’ll be late to the next big shift.
8. In-game purchases and NFTs in metaverse games generated over $7 billion in 2023.
$7 billion in one year from digital items? That’s not a bubble—it’s a business model. NFTs and in-game purchases have become core to how players interact with games, and more importantly, how they own their experiences.
Developers need to rethink what ownership means. Players aren’t just buying skins anymore—they’re buying digital identities. When you create items that players can trade, sell, or use across games, you unlock a new layer of value. Players become partners, not just users.
If you’re working on a new title, think of ways to allow limited editions, exclusive drops, or creator-generated content. Partner with NFT platforms or build your own marketplace. Just make sure it’s easy to use—players don’t want to jump through hoops to access cool content.
For creators and artists, this is your time. Design unique items, collaborate with game developers, or launch your own wearable lines inside virtual worlds. With NFT royalties and resale markets, your art can keep earning long after it’s sold.
Business teams can explore how NFTs can add value to loyalty programs, special access areas, or exclusive communities. Don’t think of NFTs as just collectibles—think of them as keys.
The bottom line: players are willing to pay for identity, exclusivity, and status. Build around that.
9. VR headset sales exceeded 10 million units in 2023, driven by metaverse gaming.
This is proof that virtual reality is no longer niche. Ten million headsets sold in a single year means people are investing in immersive gear—and metaverse gaming is the reason.
For developers, this is your signal to start designing for VR if you haven’t already. Even if your game isn’t fully VR-native, adding optional VR support can attract a growing user base. Focus on motion controls, spatial sound, and intuitive menus. VR gamers expect a fluid experience.
Hardware makers and accessory brands should also pay attention. More headsets mean more demand for better haptics, sound systems, and ergonomic accessories. If you can improve the comfort or immersion of a VR session, you’ve got a solid product line.
For investors and startups, this means the VR ecosystem is heating up. Think training tools, social spaces, controller alternatives, or cross-reality integration. Any tech that enhances the VR metaverse will have serious demand.
Marketers have a new playground too. VR allows for 360-degree product demos, interactive storytelling, and branded experiences that feel real. It’s time to create campaigns you can walk through—not just click.
The growth in hardware tells a bigger story: people are ready to dive deeper. Build for depth, not just display.
10. 45% of gamers say they play metaverse games for social interaction.
This is a big shift from the “play to win” mindset of past generations.
Almost half of all metaverse gamers are logging in not just for the game—but for the people. That means your game is also a social network, and your design needs to reflect that.
For developers, this means features like friends lists, group chat, player hubs, and co-op modes aren’t just extras—they’re essentials. Consider how players meet, bond, and communicate.
If it’s clunky or too limited, they’ll move to games that let them socialize better.
Game studios can benefit by hosting virtual events, club nights, or seasonal hangouts inside their games. These don’t require complex development. Sometimes just a themed room or special emotes can turn an average game night into a social event.
For brands, this is a big opportunity to engage communities rather than individuals. Sponsor a hangout area. Offer virtual items that can be gifted. Partner with creators who organize in-game meetups.
When people are emotionally connected to a space, they’re more likely to stick around—and spend.
This stat reminds us that people crave connection. Games that foster friendship, not just competition, are the ones that will keep players coming back.
11. Sandbox and Decentraland saw a 200%+ increase in user-generated content revenue in 2023.
This kind of growth shows just how powerful user creativity can be when it’s supported by the right tools and platforms.
In Sandbox and Decentraland, players aren’t just playing—they’re building, selling, and earning. And with a 200%+ revenue increase from user-generated content, it’s clear this model works.
If you’re a developer or platform builder, the message is simple: enable creation. Give your users the ability to build their own worlds, objects, or games. Then, let them sell or trade those items with others.
This creates a healthy creator economy where your players become contributors and business owners.
To do this right, make sure your platform supports easy-to-use creation tools. Not everyone is a 3D designer, but with drag-and-drop editors or in-game building kits, anyone can create something cool.
Also, keep transaction systems safe, fast, and transparent—players won’t engage if they feel like they’re being scammed or underpaid.
If you’re a marketer or brand, this is your entry point. Sponsor contests, fund creator grants, or collaborate with top builders to design branded environments. A creator who knows your audience can craft something much more engaging than a traditional ad ever could.
This stat proves that giving players ownership, control, and rewards for their creations leads to serious growth. The more power you give users to shape your world, the more invested they become.
12. Average session time in metaverse games is 45 minutes, double that of traditional games.
A 45-minute session may not seem long at first glance, but in the gaming world, it’s a huge signal. Compared to traditional games, this means metaverse players are not just dropping in—they’re staying, exploring, and engaging deeply with the content.
For developers, the longer a player stays, the more chances you have to build loyalty, sell items, and encourage social interaction. This stat tells you to design for longevity.
That could mean longer missions, evolving storylines, seasonal updates, or just cozy spaces for players to chill out and hang with friends.
If you’re in UX or game design, this stat should push you to review your pacing. Games with higher session times often have smoother flow, fewer abrupt stops, and lots of reasons to stick around.
Look at how players move through your world. Are they running out of things to do too fast? Are they frustrated by menus or mechanics? Clean that up, and they’ll stay longer.
From a business point of view, 45 minutes gives you a big window for monetization. You don’t need to push ads constantly—but you can offer optional extras, highlight community events, or prompt social sharing during natural pauses.
Remember, people stay where they feel welcome, entertained, and connected. So build your world like a great café—somewhere people want to hang out, not just grab and go.
13. Over 55% of metaverse gamers have customized avatars.
More than half of all players are spending time and energy to make their virtual selves look and feel unique.
This is more than a fun feature—it’s a fundamental part of how people relate to the digital world.
For developers and platform owners, this is a cue to invest in avatar systems. Give players more options, more styles, and more ways to express who they are. Hair, clothing, gear, and movement styles are just the start. Let them stand out in a crowd.
The opportunity here is also financial. Customization drives commerce.
When players care about how they look, they’ll spend to unlock new styles, limited-time items, or rare cosmetic upgrades. Just make sure your monetization isn’t pay-to-win—focus on visual flair, not power boosts.
If you’re a brand, avatar fashion is your new frontier. Create virtual clothing lines, team up with creators for branded skins, or drop exclusive accessories for special events.
These items are more than outfits—they’re statements. Players use them to signal status, taste, or community membership.
And for creators and artists, this is your playground. Start designing wearable art for metaverse platforms. Many ecosystems now support independent designers and offer resale royalties, giving you ongoing income from your designs.
The takeaway here? In the metaverse, identity is visual—and players are willing to invest in it.
14. 1 in 4 metaverse users have attended virtual concerts or events.
This stat is a major indicator that the metaverse isn’t just about games anymore—it’s becoming a full-blown entertainment venue.
Whether it’s a DJ set in Decentraland, a Travis Scott concert in Fortnite, or a virtual movie premiere, these events are pulling in millions.
For developers, this means your game can be more than a game. Think about creating multi-use spaces where concerts, talks, or social gatherings can take place.
Even simple features like a stage area, dynamic lighting, or emotes like clapping and dancing can make your world feel event-ready.
If you’re in the entertainment business, you should absolutely be exploring this space. Virtual concerts are lower cost, global, and interactive in ways that real-world venues can’t match.
Start small—a Q&A, an album drop party, or a fan meetup—and scale up as you learn what your audience loves.
Brands can benefit too. Sponsor events, offer branded digital merchandise, or run campaigns around virtual tours. These events offer the kind of engagement traditional ads dream about—emotional, shared, and talked-about experiences.
The action here is to think of the metaverse as a media platform, not just a game. Events bring people together, create buzz, and deepen emotional connection. Start planning yours now.
15. Over $500 million was spent on virtual land in gaming metaverses in 2022–2023.
Yes, you read that right—half a billion dollars spent on plots of digital land. In the metaverse, land is more than just space. It’s opportunity. It’s access. It’s brand power. And people are buying in.
For developers and platform owners, this shows demand for ownership. Create land systems that let users build, customize, and monetize their space. Whether it’s a home, shop, gallery, or mini-game, users want to feel like they own a piece of your world.
But ownership must come with value. Give land perks—visibility, foot traffic, or exclusive building rights. Support marketplaces so owners can trade, rent, or co-build. The more utility land has, the more people will invest.
If you’re a business, virtual real estate is your next storefront. Brands are already setting up metaverse HQs, showrooms, and event venues. These spaces let you host experiences, sell digital goods, and build brand loyalty—no physical rent required.
For real estate investors, this is a new asset class. Just like physical property, virtual land values can rise based on location, traffic, and development. Choose platforms with solid communities, development tools, and long-term roadmaps.
The real takeaway? People aren’t just visiting the metaverse—they’re planting roots. Give them the tools to build, and they’ll stick around.
16. Mobile accounts for over 50% of metaverse gaming time spent.
This stat tells us something major: the metaverse isn’t locked inside a PC or VR headset. It’s in your pocket. More than half of all metaverse gaming time happens on mobile devices—phones and tablets. That’s a huge shift in how and where players engage.
For developers, this means optimizing for mobile isn’t optional—it’s your main channel. Your game should load fast, run smoothly on mid-range devices, and be easy to control with touch. If you’re building for desktop first, always think about how it will scale down.
Also, consider screen space and social play. Chat boxes, menus, and UI elements should be thumb-friendly. Features like auto-navigation, one-touch emotes, or mobile notifications can keep players engaged even when they’re on the go.
For businesses, mobile metaverse access means broader reach. You’re not just targeting hardcore gamers now. You’re reaching commuters, students, and casual players who open their favorite world while waiting in line. Keep your experiences simple, beautiful, and social so they fit into shorter sessions too.
Marketers should prioritize mobile-first campaigns—use QR codes to drop players into metaverse experiences from physical spaces or social media. Design in-game events that reward frequent check-ins, not just long sessions.
The main point here is accessibility. The more easily players can enter your world from anywhere, the more often they’ll do it. Go mobile or get left behind.
17. 60% of blockchain game projects are metaverse-focused.
Blockchain and the metaverse are growing together, and this stat proves it. A full 60% of blockchain-based games are focused on metaverse-style experiences, blending gaming, socializing, and virtual economies.
For developers building on blockchain, this is your edge. Don’t just think about gameplay—build economies. Let players earn, own, and trade digital items.
The tech is already there: smart contracts, token systems, and NFT marketplaces can all be plugged into your game with the right tools.
But with blockchain comes complexity. So your job is also to simplify. Use clean UI, skip the jargon, and let players sign up without needing a crypto wallet right away. Gradual onboarding builds trust and keeps friction low.
If you’re an entrepreneur, this is a green light to support this ecosystem. Tools for gasless transactions, cross-game asset management, or community governance are all in demand. Players and developers alike want smoother ways to build and play.
Brands can also explore token-based campaigns. Launch collectible items, tie in real-world rewards, or offer community points that players can earn inside metaverse events. Make sure what you offer has actual value and is fun to use.
Blockchain isn’t just about finance anymore—it’s becoming the backbone of digital worlds. Build tools that support ownership, transparency, and community, and you’ll have a strong foundation.
18. Meta (Facebook) invested over $10 billion in metaverse development in 2023 alone.
That’s not a typo. Meta poured more than $10 billion into the metaverse in a single year, and while some questioned the move, it’s a clear sign that the big players are going all in.
For developers, this tells you that the infrastructure is coming. Meta is building platforms, tools, and standards that could make it easier for creators to enter the space.
Stay on top of what’s being launched—from Horizon Worlds to Meta Quest updates—and consider how your projects can integrate or benefit.
For startups and content creators, this means opportunity. Big investment usually comes with ecosystem funding, partnerships, and accelerator programs. Look for grants, hackathons, and co-marketing deals that help smaller builders ride the wave.
If you’re a brand, Meta’s commitment shows the direction of digital interaction. From advertising to product placement and interactive experiences, Meta wants to own the next internet—and they need content to make it stick. Build now, and you could be part of the blueprint.
The takeaway isn’t just about Meta. It’s about momentum. When companies this large put their money where their vision is, it speeds up industry development. Even if you’re not building inside their platform, you’ll feel the effects.
This is the ground floor. Build your foundation now while others are still watching from the sidelines.
19. 30% of all digital gaming revenue will come from metaverse titles by 2027.
That’s nearly one-third of the entire digital gaming economy shifting toward the metaverse in just a few years. It’s a bold prediction—but if current trends hold, it’s on track to become reality.
For developers, this means future-proofing your work. If you’re launching a new game today, ask yourself: can it grow into a persistent world? Can it support creator economies, live events, or virtual identity? These aren’t just bonuses—they’re future revenue streams.
For platform owners and investors, this stat is your call to focus. Supporting metaverse-first titles, cross-platform compatibility, and community-driven monetization will put you ahead of traditional studios still chasing older models.
If you’re working in publishing or partnerships, shift your strategy. Look for IPs that support long-term engagement, not just launch spikes. Players will pay more over time if they feel part of something alive and evolving.
And for marketers, this means moving beyond banner ads and influencer posts. The real wins will come from experiences—places, quests, rewards—inside metaverse games. Partner with developers early to embed your brand deeply into the narrative and gameplay.
Revenue follows attention. And the attention is moving into worlds that never shut down.
20. VR/AR-based metaverse games saw a 28% increase in user engagement in 2023.
This is where immersion meets stickiness. A 28% boost in engagement for VR/AR-based games means players are not just trying these platforms—they’re staying longer, playing more often, and returning day after day.
If you’re developing for VR or AR, this stat is your validation. Lean into what makes these platforms special: physical movement, environmental awareness, and tactile interaction.
These aren’t console ports—they’re sensory experiences. Build games that reward exploration, presence, and body-based play.
For product teams, consider how to lower barriers to entry. Make tutorials simple. Reduce motion sickness. And don’t demand high-end hardware to enjoy the experience. The easier you make it to play, the more people will engage and come back.
Marketers and content creators have a fresh canvas here. Immersive storytelling, branded experiences, and interactive environments give you new ways to connect with audiences.
Imagine walking through a product showcase or taking part in a gamified shopping event. These aren’t just ads—they’re adventures.
If you’re in education, health, or training, this growth also applies. Use the same tools to create high-engagement simulations that don’t just teach—they stick.
The metaverse isn’t just seen—it’s felt. And engagement is strongest where players feel like they’re really inside the game.
21. Gamers aged 13–24 make up over 60% of metaverse gaming audiences.
This stat tells you exactly who’s shaping the metaverse: young, digital-native players who grew up with Minecraft, Fortnite, and Roblox. These gamers aren’t just playing—they’re building, customizing, trading, and socializing in virtual worlds they consider their own.
For developers, designing for this audience means understanding what they care about.
They want freedom, creativity, identity, and social connection. That means strong customization tools, regular content updates, and built-in systems for sharing and collaboration.
If your game or platform doesn’t allow young users to express themselves, connect with friends, or feel part of something bigger, you’ll struggle to hold their attention.
This generation expects updates often, listens to their peers more than marketing, and values experiences over transactions.
For marketers, this stat is your north star. Speak their language. Think memes, virtual fashion, music tie-ins, and influencer collaborations—not just product features. But also remember: Gen Z cares about values. If your campaign feels fake or forced, they’ll bounce.
Brands and educators should also recognize that this is a learning generation. They’re curious, entrepreneurial, and willing to experiment. That’s why tools like Roblox Studio, Unreal Engine, or even basic avatar design kits are so popular.
You can reach this audience by helping them create, not just consume.
Your big takeaway here: if you want to win in the metaverse, win with the youth. Make your world a place where they feel seen, heard, and empowered.
22. Over 75% of metaverse gamers engage in virtual commerce monthly.
That’s not just window shopping—this is active participation in a new kind of economy. Over three-quarters of metaverse gamers are spending, trading, or selling something every single month.
It could be avatar items, in-game perks, land rentals, or even NFT drops. The point is—they’re involved.
For developers and game studios, this shows the importance of a robust and easy-to-use marketplace.
Players don’t just want to buy—they want to sell, trade, gift, and even earn. Build systems that support peer-to-peer exchanges, transparent pricing, and community-led moderation.
Make your commerce feel natural. Offer items that carry social value (status symbols), functional value (tools or access), or personal value (customizations). Give players a reason to come back and shop each month with rotating content or time-limited exclusives.
For businesses, this is where product strategy gets fun. Launch branded wearables. Drop limited-edition collabs with creators. Sponsor virtual stores or host in-game shopping festivals.
Just make sure it blends into the world—nobody wants a pop-up ad in the middle of their dreamscape.
For creators, this is your business model. If you design clothes, tools, or spaces, start building your portfolio. Platforms that support creator royalties and community storefronts make it possible to earn consistent income without needing a big studio deal.
Virtual commerce isn’t a side feature—it’s central. Treat it like the engine that keeps your world thriving.
23. NFTs linked to metaverse games accounted for 40% of total gaming NFT sales in 2023.
This shows that the real action in NFTs isn’t in collectibles alone—it’s in gaming. When NFTs give players value inside a metaverse game, whether that’s access, identity, or in-game utility, people are more likely to buy—and keep buying.
If you’re building a game, this is your opportunity to make NFTs meaningful. Don’t just sell art—sell experience. NFTs that unlock missions, exclusive gear, or status in the community feel valuable. Plus, if those assets are tradeable or upgradable, players get even more attached.
For game designers and studios, design NFTs with intent. Add rarity levels, story backdrops, or collaborative utility. Let NFTs evolve based on what players do in-game. This adds a sense of progress that static NFTs can’t offer.
For collectors and investors, focus on games where NFTs are baked into gameplay—not just tacked on. Look for signs of real utility, strong communities, and developers who have a long-term roadmap.
If you’re a creator, this space is a goldmine. Design gear sets, pet companions, emotes—anything that adds personality or value to the player’s experience. The right design could turn into a marketplace hit.
Bottom line: players want digital items they can use, show off, and trade. Give them something with purpose, and they’ll gladly support your project.
24. Over 80% of top metaverse games offer play-to-earn or token-based rewards.
Earning while playing is now more than just a trend—it’s a core feature in most successful metaverse games. Whether it’s through in-game currencies, token staking, or NFT rewards, players are finding ways to turn their time into value.
For developers, this means building balanced economies. You want to offer ways to earn, but also systems that prevent inflation or farming abuse. Consider models like skill-based rewards, mission bonuses, or creator bounties instead of endless token drops.
For players, this opens up new roles. You’re not just a gamer—you could be a trader, a landlord, an entertainer, or a guide. This creates opportunities for side income or even full-time work inside digital worlds. But it only works if the systems are fair and transparent.
If you’re a platform owner or publisher, consider offering built-in wallets, exchange tools, or earnings dashboards to help users track what they earn. The easier and more trustworthy you make the system, the more people will engage.
For marketers, token-based rewards are also a new kind of loyalty program. Instead of points, give players digital currency they can spend in your world. Instead of coupons, drop NFT items as prizes for event participation or referrals.
Play-to-earn doesn’t mean turning every game into a job. It means rewarding participation in ways that feel meaningful, fun, and fair.
25. User-generated content in metaverse games contributed $1.5 billion to industry revenue.
That’s an eye-opener. Creators—regular players, artists, modders—are responsible for a big chunk of what makes the metaverse profitable. They’re designing items, crafting worlds, building mini-games, and driving player engagement like never before.
If you’re a platform, you should be doing everything you can to support this creator economy. Make content tools accessible. Offer tutorials, creator funds, and monetization pathways. Give creators analytics to understand what works and how to improve.
Developers should treat creators like partners. Highlight their work, promote user-generated spaces, and build game mechanics that encourage modding or remixing. The more players feel empowered to create, the longer they stay—and the more they contribute.
If you’re a creator, this stat is your sign to get serious. Build a brand inside a platform like Roblox, Sandbox, or Fortnite Creative. Partner with other creators. Package your work smartly. With royalties, subscriptions, or asset sales, you can earn real money from digital art.
For brands, this means going beyond corporate design. Collaborate with creators to make products that feel organic and authentic. A creator’s touch can make your brand feel native to the world instead of pasted on top.
The takeaway: the metaverse is being built by its users. Give them the tools and the spotlight, and they’ll build worlds worth exploring.
26. In 2023, the average metaverse game developer earned 3x more via digital asset royalties than traditional models.
This stat highlights a major shift in how developers and creators make money. Instead of relying only on game sales or ads, developers are now earning recurring income from digital assets—things like skins, NFTs, or in-game tools.
Every time those assets are traded or sold again, the original creator gets a royalty.
For developers, this opens up a powerful new revenue stream. You’re no longer bound to a one-time payment model. Instead, create assets that live beyond your initial launch. Focus on items with long-term demand—exclusive fashion, rare gear, or limited-run collectibles.
When players trade these assets, you continue to earn.
To take full advantage of this model, make sure your platform supports automated royalties through smart contracts. You want a system where royalties are built into the transaction so that you never have to chase payments or rely on trust alone.
For artists and designers, this is a goldmine. You can create once, release it on a platform like Sandbox or Decentraland, and keep earning as your item changes hands. Focus on originality, utility, and scarcity—items that are useful and hard to find tend to sell again and again.
For platforms, supporting royalties is a great way to attract top talent. Creators go where they feel rewarded and respected. Build strong legal and technical systems to ensure royalty enforcement and transparency.
This model flips the traditional game economy on its head. Instead of selling once and moving on, you’re creating digital products that keep giving—year after year.
27. Esports events in the metaverse attracted over 10 million viewers in 2023.
Esports isn’t new, but esports in the metaverse is leveling up fast. With more than 10 million viewers tuning in last year, it’s clear that the combination of live gaming, 3D interaction, and immersive viewing experiences is a winning formula.
For game studios and event organizers, this means it’s time to design with spectators in mind. Think beyond the players. Add camera systems, viewing lounges, shoutcaster booths, and interactive features for the audience. Let them cheer, vote, or even influence the match in real time.
For esports teams and leagues, virtual venues are the new arenas. Host tournaments in digital stadiums, where fans can watch, meet players, buy merch, and hang out in the same virtual space. It’s cheaper, scalable, and way more flexible than physical venues.
If you’re a brand or sponsor, metaverse esports is a dream stage. You’re not just slapping a logo on a jersey—you can design an entire branded experience. Build fan zones, give away exclusive skins, or create mini-games tied to the main event.
For creators, this opens up new content types. Stream your experience as a fan, give behind-the-scenes access, or create commentary content inside the metaverse itself.
Esports in the metaverse isn’t just about watching—it’s about being there. The more interactive and social the experience, the bigger your crowd will grow.
28. Over 65% of metaverse gamers participate in co-op or multiplayer modes.
This stat makes one thing clear: the metaverse is social by design. More than two-thirds of players are choosing to game together, not alone. They’re teaming up, building together, hanging out, and creating memories with friends inside virtual worlds.
For developers, this should shape your design choices. Build around teamwork, not just solo missions. Add voice chat, friend invites, party systems, and co-op goals.
People stick around longer when they feel like they belong to something—especially when they’re accomplishing it together.
Even non-competitive games can benefit from multiplayer elements. Think about collaborative building, story paths that split based on team choices, or creative modes where friends work on a shared project. The more ways people can interact, the deeper their engagement.
For brands, this opens up interesting activation ideas. Sponsor team events, launch group challenges, or create experiences where friends unlock rewards together. Think “invite-a-friend” incentives—but inside the game world.
Content creators should also lean into multiplayer. Whether you’re hosting fan games, live events, or collaborations with other streamers, multi-user content tends to be more dynamic, shareable, and fun to watch.
In short, players don’t just want games—they want shared worlds. Build your platform like a digital playground, and they’ll bring their friends.
29. 33% of users claim the metaverse enhances their gaming experience more than traditional formats.
One in three users say gaming in the metaverse simply feels better. It’s more immersive, more interactive, and more personal. That means if you’re not thinking metaverse, you’re already behind in delivering what many players see as the future of gaming.
For developers, this means designing experiences that go beyond the screen. Include features that respond to a player’s mood, social context, or progression. Think adaptive music, reactive environments, or AI-driven characters who remember your choices.
This stat also signals the importance of ownership and personalization. Players enjoy controlling how they look, where they go, and what they do. Give them the tools to shape their journey and they’ll get more emotionally invested.
For brands and marketers, this is an invitation to become part of the experience. Rather than push messaging from the outside, embed your brand inside the game world. Make it part of the environment or the storyline—something users interact with, not ignore.
The big idea: when done right, the metaverse makes games feel alive. That’s what keeps players coming back—not just better graphics, but better experiences.
30. Metaverse games saw a 20% higher player retention rate compared to non-metaverse titles.
Retention is the ultimate metric for success. It tells you if your players are not just downloading—but staying. And metaverse games are winning this battle, with a 20% higher retention rate than traditional games.
This is no accident. Persistent worlds, social features, player ownership, and regular updates all make players feel part of something evolving. That emotional connection is why they stick around.
For developers, this means investing in post-launch content, community support, and long-term engagement systems. Don’t treat your game like a product—treat it like a world. Give players reasons to return weekly, not just to grind, but to belong.
If you’re running a platform, offer creators tools to update content easily and keep their communities fresh. Automate event calendars, seasonal themes, or even surprise pop-ups that keep players curious.
Retention also makes marketing cheaper. If your players stay longer, you don’t need to spend as much to replace them. That means your budget stretches further, and your community grows organically.
For business strategy, this stat shows that metaverse mechanics aren’t just flashy extras—they’re core to long-term success. Build with them, and you’re building a world people don’t want to leave.
wrapping it up
From the billions in revenue to the hours players spend inside virtual worlds, the data is clear: the metaverse is transforming gaming at every level. It’s not just a buzzword—it’s a movement. One that rewards creativity, connection, and innovation.
