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Qadir AK
Qadir AK
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Qadir Ak is the founder of Coinpedia. He has over a decade of experience writing about technology and has been covering the blockchain and cryptocurrency space since 2010. He has also interviewed a few prominent experts within the cryptocurrency space.
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Mustafa Mulla
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Mustafa has been writing about Blockchain and crypto since many years. He has previous trading experience and has been working in the Fintech industry since 2017.
- Sep 12, 2023 13:30 UTC
What is Initial Game Offering (IGO)? A Beginner’s Guide to Early Game Investments
Imagine getting early access to the next big game before it even launches. Not only that, but what if you could invest in it early, potentially earning rewards when it takes off? That’s exactly what an Initial Game Offering (IGO) does. If you’ve heard about ICOs (Initial Coin Offerings) or IDOs (Initial DEX Offerings), think of an IGO as their gaming-focused cousin.
In this guide, we’ll break it all down in simple terms. No complicated jargon—just easy-to-understand insights into how IGOs work, their benefits, drawbacks, and how they compare to other fundraising methods.
What is an Initial Game Offering (IGO)?
An Initial Game Offering (IGO) is a way for blockchain gaming projects to raise funds by selling in-game assets or tokens before the game is officially launched. It gives early investors a chance to support the project and, in return, they get rewards like NFTs, game tokens, or exclusive content.
Think of it as Kickstarter, but for blockchain-based video games. Developers raise money from investors who believe in their project. In return, investors get early access and valuable assets that could become more valuable over time.
Example: Imagine a game called “CryptoWarriors.” The developers launch an IGO, offering exclusive characters as NFTs. Investors who join early can buy these NFTs, which could later be worth a lot more if the game becomes popular.
How Does an IGO Work?
IGOs happen on special platforms called IGO launchpads (more on that later). Here’s how it works:
- Project Announcement – The game developers announce their project and launch the IGO campaign.
- Token or NFT Sale – Investors buy tokens or NFTs related to the game.
- Funding – The funds collected are used for game development.
- Game Development and Release – Once funded, the developers build and launch the game.
- Profits and Benefits – Investors can either use their early assets in the game or sell them for a potential profit.
Example: You participate in an IGO for a game called “MetaRacers.” You buy some special in-game cars as NFTs. When the game launches and gains popularity, those cars could be worth 5-10 times what you paid.
IGO vs ICO: What’s the Difference?
An ICO (Initial Coin Offering) is used to raise funds for cryptocurrency projects, while an IGO is focused on gaming projects.
| Feature | ICO | IGO |
| Purpose | Raise funds for a crypto project | Raise funds for a blockchain game |
| Rewards | Tokens or coins | NFTs, game assets, tokens |
| Investor Interest | Crypto traders, investors | NFT collectors, gamers, investors |
| Risk Level | High (many scams in the past) | High but linked to gaming adoption |
Example: If Ethereum launched today, it would use an ICO. If a new blockchain-based battle game launched today, it would use an IGO.
IGO vs IDO: Which One is Better?
An IDO (Initial DEX Offering) raises funds by offering tokens on a decentralized exchange (DEX). Unlike IGOs, which are game-focused, IDOs are used for all types of crypto projects.
Main Differences:
- IGO offers in-game assets (NFTs, tokens), while IDO only sells tokens.
- IDO tokens can be used in any project, but IGO assets are specific to a game.
- IDO tokens are instantly tradable; IGO assets depend on game launch.
Example: A DeFi project might use an IDO to distribute its tokens, but a game like “Axie Infinity” would use an IGO to sell its first characters and items.
What is an IGO Launchpad?
An IGO launchpad is a platform where new blockchain games hold their IGOs. These platforms vet projects, helping investors find promising games.
Popular IGO Launchpads:
- Binance NFT – Offers exclusive blockchain gaming IGOs.
- GameFi – A dedicated launchpad for gaming projects.
- Seedify – Supports new blockchain game launches.
- Enjin Starter – Focuses on NFT-based games.
How It Works:
- Developers submit their project to a launchpad.
- The launchpad reviews the project for legitimacy.
- Approved projects list their IGOs on the platform.
- Investors buy assets during the IGO.
- Once the game launches, investors can use or sell their assets.
Benefits of an IGO
IGOs offer great opportunities, especially for gamers and early investors. Here’s why they’re worth considering:
1. Early Access to Game Assets – Get exclusive NFTs, tokens, or items before anyone else.
2. High Profit Potential – If the game becomes popular, early investors can make big profits.
3. Community Involvement – Many IGOs allow investors to influence game development.
4. Helps Developers Raise Funds – Small game studios can fund projects without big publishers.
Example: Imagine you invest in an IGO for a game like “Decentraland.” You buy virtual land as an NFT for $100. A year later, when the game gains popularity, that land is worth $10,000!
Drawbacks of an IGO
Of course, not everything about IGOs is great. Here are some risks to keep in mind:
1. High Risk – If the game fails, your investment loses value.
2. No Immediate Returns – Unlike crypto trading, you may have to wait months or years for the game to launch.
3. Scams and Rug Pulls – Some IGOs are fake projects designed to steal investor money.
4. Market Uncertainty – The gaming market is unpredictable. Even good games can flop.
Example: A game called “CryptoMonsters” raises $5 million through an IGO. The developers disappear, and the game never launches. Investors lose all their money.
How to Get Started With an IGO
If you’re interested in IGOs, follow these steps:
Step 1: Find a Reliable IGO Launchpad – Look at platforms like Binance NFT, GameFi, or Seedify.
Step 2: Research the Game – Read about the team, roadmap, and whitepaper.
Step 3: Join the IGO – Buy NFTs or tokens during the offering.
Step 4: Stay Updated – Follow the project’s development.
Step 5: Use or Sell Your Assets – When the game launches, decide if you want to play or sell.
Tip: Never invest more than you can afford to lose. IGOs are exciting but risky!
Initial Game Offerings (IGOs) are changing the gaming industry, allowing early investors to support and profit from new blockchain-based games. They offer early access to in-game assets, high rewards, and the thrill of being part of something new. However, they also come with risks—scams, failed projects, and long wait times.
If you’re a gamer or investor looking for exciting opportunities, IGOs might be worth exploring. Just remember: Do your research, choose trustworthy projects, and never invest more than you can afford to lose.
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FAQs
An Initial Game Offering (IGO) is a fundraising method where blockchain games sell in-game assets or tokens before launch to early investors.
Play-to-Earn (P2E) games reward players with crypto or NFTs for in-game activities, allowing them to trade or sell assets for real-world value.
The initial game refers to the first version of a blockchain-based game, often released after an IGO, allowing early investors to use or sell game assets.
An IGO funds blockchain games by selling NFTs or tokens, while an IDO raises funds for any crypto project through decentralized exchanges (DEXs).
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