Standardizing Global Game Development: Play-to-Earn ADA

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Mahlet Duressa

[GENERAL] Are you delivering this project as an individual or as an entity (whether formally incorporated or not)

Individual

[GENERAL] Please specify how many months you expect your project to last (from 2-12 months)

6

[GENERAL] Please indicate if your proposal has been auto-translated into English from another language

No

[GENERAL] Summarize your solution to the problem (200-character limit including spaces)

We'll develop a global Play-to-Earn(P2E) standard for games, starting with a logic puzzle game prototype. Players will earn ADA for completing levels, showcasing seamless blockchain reward integration

[GENERAL] Does your project have any dependencies on other organizations, technical or otherwise?

No

[GENERAL] If YES, please describe what the dependency is and why you believe it is essential for your project’s delivery. If NO, please write “No dependencies.”

No dependencies.

[GENERAL] Will your project’s output/s be fully open source?

Yes

[GENERAL] Please provide here more information on the open source status of your project outputs

Our project will be fully open-source under the MIT License, this ensures transparency, encourages collaboration, and allows other developers to integrate the Play-to-Earn ADA feature into their own games, contributing to the development of a global standard.

[METADATA] Horizons

Collectibles

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

We are solving the problem of limited financial rewards and blockchain adoption in gaming by developing a global Play-to-Earn ADA standard. Currently, there is no standardized approach for integrating ADA rewards across different game genres and platforms, restricting the potential for blockchain-enabled incentives in gaming.

Our approach is to create a Play-to-Earn (P2E) ADA system that can be integrated into any game, starting with our proof-of-concept logic puzzle game. This game features a “Man, Lion, Goat, and Grass” riddle, where players earn 1 ADA for completing levels. The rewards are powered by ad-based revenue. Ads will generate income above 1 ADA, ensuring sustainability while giving players meaningful incentives.

Why This Approach?

We believe that starting with a logic puzzle game provides a simple and engaging way to showcase the Play-to-Earn concept. As we refine the system, we will expand it to other game genres, establishing a standardized framework for ADA rewards. By making our solution open-source, we empower developers globally to integrate this model into their games, creating broader adoption of ADA rewards in gaming.

Engagement & Impact

Our project will engage:

• Gamers interested in earning ADA while playing,
• Game developers looking to integrate blockchain-based rewards, 
• Advertisers looking for effective engagement with users.

To demonstrate impact, we will track:

• User adoption and ADA rewards distributed,
• Revenue generated from ads to ensure sustainability,
• Developer adoption of our Play-to-Earn standard across multiple games.

Unique Solution

Our solution is unique because it combines seamless ADA rewards, free-to-play mechanics, and a sustainable ad-revenue model. The project's open-source nature ensures that the Play-to-Earn ADA standard can benefit not only Cardano’s blockchain ecosystem but also the global gaming industry, driving more engagement and use cases for ADA in gaming.

Current Status

We have successfully developed the initial level based on the "Man, Lion, Goat, and Grass" riddle and are working to integrate the basic functionality of the P2E system. The game is playable, and we are in the process of refining the level and testing the gameplay experience.

Github repo : https://github.com/EsubalewAmenu/Puzzle-Game

[IMPACT] Please define the positive impact your project will have on the wider Cardano community

Our project will have a significant positive impact on the wider Cardano community by promoting the adoption of blockchain technology in gaming and enhancing user engagement through tangible rewards.

Value to the Cardano Community

1. Increased ADA Utilization: By integrating a Play-to-Earn model, we will create a new use case for ADA, encouraging gamers to earn and transact using the cryptocurrency, thus driving its adoption.
2. Developer Empowerment: Our open-source standard will empower developers to easily integrate ADA rewards into their games, fostering innovation and diversity within the Cardano ecosystem.
3. Community Engagement: Engaging both gamers and developers will create a vibrant community around the Play-to-Earn model, encouraging collaboration and shared learning experiences.

[CAPABILITY & FEASIBILITY] What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability? How do you intend to validate if your approach is feasible?

We are well-equipped to deliver this project with high levels of trust and accountability due to our team's experience in game development, blockchain integration, and project management. Our existing capabilities include:

Team Expertise

• Development Skills: Our team has a strong background in software development, particularly in Flutter and Dart, allowing us to create cross-platform games efficiently.
• Blockchain Knowledge: We possess expertise in blockchain technologies, particularly with Cardano, which enables us to implement the Play-to-Earn ADA system effectively.
• Project Management: We have experience managing projects through github, ensuring transparency and collaborative development.

Feasibility Validation

To validate the feasibility of our approach, we will:

1. Prototype Testing: We have already developed a playable prototype of the "Man, Lion, Goat, and Grass" riddle level, which allows us to test gameplay mechanics and user engagement.
2. Ad Revenue Analysis: We will conduct an analysis of potential ad revenue streams and partnerships to ensure sustainable income that exceeds our payout threshold.
3. User Feedback: We plan to conduct user testing sessions to gather feedback, iterating on our design and gameplay based on user experience

[PROJECT MILESTONES] What are the key milestones you need to achieve in order to complete your project successfully?

Game Homepage/Dashboard and Prototype Development

• Description: Develop the game homepage/dashboard that showcases settings, user profiles, and available game levels. Finalize the implementation of the "Man, Lion, Goat, and Grass" riddle level, ensuring that all navigational elements function correctly.
• Acceptance Criteria:
• Fully functional game homepage/dashboard with intuitive navigation.
• Fully functional first level with engaging gameplay.
• User settings accessible and operational.
• All game levels displayed and selectable without errors.

Play-to-Earn ADA System Integration and UI/UX Design

• Description: Develop and integrate the Play-to-Earn ADA system, allowing players to earn ADA by completing levels. Implement ad-based revenue generation to facilitate player rewards after level completion. Design and implement a cohesive user interface for the next level games.
• Acceptance Criteria:
• Functional Play-to-Earn mechanism rewarding players with 1 ADA for each completed level after viewing an ad.
• Starting revenue generation from ads using google admob to begin.
• Comprehensive testing to ensure seamless operation of the P2E system across multiple game levels.
• Completed UI design reflecting engaging and intuitive aesthetics.

Expansion of Game Levels and Features

• Description: Develop and integrate additional puzzle levels and new game features to enrich gameplay. This includes adding various logic puzzles and enhancements to the existing game mechanics.
• Acceptance Criteria:
• At least 3 additional puzzle levels developed and functional.
• New features (e.g., achievements, leaderboards) integrated and operational.
• Successful testing confirms the Play-to-Earn system works consistently across all new levels.

Marketing and Community Engagement Strategy

• Description: Create and implement a marketing strategy to promote the game, focusing on community engagement. Develop materials for social media, and outreach to target audiences.
• Acceptance Criteria:
• Active engagement with the community through social media and other platforms.

Project Close-Out Report and Video

• Description: Prepare a detailed project close-out report summarizing achievements, challenges, and lessons learned throughout the project. Create a video showcasing gameplay and the Play-to-Earn features for broader outreach based on catalyst guidelines.
• Acceptance Criteria:
• Completed close-out report submitted, detailing all project aspects and outcomes.
• Closeout video finalized based on catalyst guidelines.
• Overall project review meeting to discuss feedback and future opportunities.

[RESOURCES] Who is in the project team and what are their roles?

1.Faizur Reshid (PhD)

• Role: Project Lead 
• LinkedIn:Faizur
• Responsibilities: Oversee project execution, manage timelines and budgets, lead backend development, and integrate the Play-to-Earn ADA system.

2.Markos Muche

• Role: Blockchain Developer
• LinkedIn:Markos
• Responsibilities: Develop smart contracts for the Play-to-Earn system, ensuring secure and efficient transactions of ADA rewards. Implement blockchain integration to track player achievements and rewards.

3.Tadesse Duressa

• Role: Developer
• LinkedIn: Tadesse Duressa
• Responsibilities: Design and implement the user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) for the game, focusing on making the gameplay intuitive and engaging.

4.Mohammed Ibrahim

• Role: UX/UI Designer
• Portfolio:Mohammed Ibrahim
• Responsibilities: Develop the visual design elements of the game, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic, and conduct user testing to gather feedback for improvements.

5.Matiyas Seifu

• Role: Flutter/Game Developer
• Github:Matiyas
• Responsibilities: Create and refine game levels and mechanics, ensuring that puzzles are challenging yet solvable and integrated with the Play-to-Earn system.

6.Samuel Birhanu Wada

• Role: Game Mechanics Developer
• Github:Samuel Birhanu
• Responsibilities: Create and refine game levels and mechanics, ensuring that puzzles are challenging yet solvable and integrated with the Play-to-Earn system.

7.Mahlet Duressa

• Role: Marketing and Community Engagement Specialist
• Telegram: @maltb
• Responsibilities: Lead the platform’s promotional efforts and community outreach. Develop and execute a marketing strategy to attract users, both within and beyond the Cardano ecosystem. Manage social media and educational campaigns.

8.Tensae Berhanu

• Role: Full-Stack Developer
• LinkedIn:Tensae Berhanu
• Responsibilities: Develop the technical infrastructure, including front-end and back-end development. Ensure the platform’s functionalities are fully operational.

[BUDGET & COSTS] Please provide a cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources

1.Blockchain Developers:

• Monthly Salary: 5,000 ADA
• Duration: 6 months
• Total: 30,000 ADA

2.Game Developers :

• Monthly Salary: 5,000 ADA
• Duration: 6 months
• Total: 45,000 ADA

3.UI/UX Designer:

• Monthly Salary: 8,000 ADA
• Duration: 6 months
• Total: 16,000 ADA

4.Project Manager, tools & documentation preparation:

• Monthly Salary: 2,500 ADA
• Duration: 6 months
• Total: 25,000 ADA

5.Marketing & Community Engagement

• Marketing Campaigns:
• Estimated Cost: 10,000 ADA
• Community Engagement Activities:
• Estimated Cost: 5,000 ADA

6.Third-Party Services

• Google play app deployment fee:
• Estimated Cost: 1,000 ADA
• Ad Network Integration Fees:
• Estimated Cost: 3,000 ADA
• Legal and Accounting Services:
• Estimated Cost: 5,000 ADA

7.Development & Operational Costs

• Cloud Hosting and Server Costs:
• Estimated Cost: 3,000 ADA
• Miscellaneous Expenses:
• Estimated Cost: 8,000 ADA

Total 150,000 ADA

[VALUE FOR MONEY] How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?

Our proposed budget for the Play-to-Earn ADA is justified by competitive compensation for our skilled team, aligning with industry standards to ensure high-quality delivery. By leveraging Cardano's blockchain for an innovative Play-to-Earn model, we aim to drive user engagement and showcase Cardano's capabilities.

A significant portion of the budget is dedicated to marketing and community engagement, which will enhance awareness and adoption. Our commitment to transparency and accountability in fund management will foster trust within the Cardano community, making this investment valuable for the ecosystem's growth and sustainability.