Blockchain integrated game to create a decentralized game ecosystem on Cardano

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Phùng Thế Anh

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

Entity (Incorporated)

[GENERAL] Co-proposers and additional applicants

• Trần Đức Dương
• Trần Hữu Hưng
• Nguyễn Văn Tuấn
• Nguyễn Việt Hoàng

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

7

[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 will create a blockchain-based gaming platform for secure asset ownership, cross-platform trading, and real-world monetization, boosting the gaming economy and player engagement.

[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

Open Source Status of Our Project Outputs.

Our project will be open source throughout its entire lifecycle, promoting transparency, collaboration, and community engagement within the Cardano ecosystem. We believe that by making our code publicly available, we can foster innovation, allow for community contributions, and ensure that our platform remains adaptable to the needs of its users.

Type of License.

We intend to use the MIT License for our project. This license is widely recognized and allows for:

• Free use: Users can use, copy, modify, merge, publish, distribute, sublicense, and/or sell copies of the software.
• Attribution: All modifications must include the original copyright notice and the permission notice, ensuring that credit is given to the original authors.

Open Source Repository.

We will establish a publicly accessible repository on platforms like GitHub, where the entire codebase, including documentation, will be made available. This repository will include:

• The core code for the blockchain integration, including smart contracts.
• The frontend and backend code for the gaming platform.
• Documentation detailing installation, usage, and contribution guidelines.

Elements Open Source.

While the primary focus of our project will be open source, certain proprietary components, such as specific game assets (graphics, audio) and confidential business logic related to monetization strategies, may not be released under the open-source license. However, all fundamental features related to the blockchain integration and platform functionality will be open source.

By committing to an open-source approach, we aim to create a collaborative environment that enhances the development of our project while simultaneously contributing to the growth of the Cardano community. This transparency will allow for community input, bug reporting, and feature requests, ensuring that the platform remains aligned with user needs and industry standards.

[METADATA] Horizons

Gaming (GameFi)

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Proposed Solution: Own assets in the game.

1.Perception of the Proble

• The gaming industry currently faces critical issues surrounding asset ownership, security, and economic sustainability. Players often do not have genuine ownership of their in-game assets, which limits their ability to trade or sell these items outside the game environment. This results in a lack of liquidity and a diminished player experience. Additionally, game developers struggle to maintain vibrant economies within their games due to centralized control, leading to issues like inflation or asset devaluation. Our project aims to address these challenges by implementing blockchain technology to enable true ownership and a decentralized in-game economy.

(Diagram describes how NFT Marketplace connects game, performs transactions via blockchain Cardano)

Reasons for Our Approach.

2.We believe that integrating blockchain into gaming is the most effective way to solve these problems because:

• True Ownership: By utilizing Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), players will have genuine ownership of their in-game assets, allowing for secure transfers and trades.
• Interoperability: Blockchain enables assets to be used across multiple games, fostering a more interconnected gaming ecosystem where players can leverage their investments.
• Security and Transparency: Implementing smart contracts ensures that transactions are secure, transparent, and automated, reducing the risk of fraud or manipulation.
• New Revenue Streams: Our solution will allow players to monetize their in-game efforts through play-to-earn models, transforming gameplay into a financially rewarding experience.

Engagement with Stakeholders.

3.Our project will actively engage a diverse group of stakeholders, including:

• Gamers.
• Game Developers.
• Investors and Blockchain Enthusiasts.
• KOLs and KOCs for marketing purposes, leveraging their influence to increase visibility and drive user adoption.

Demonstrating and Proving Impact.

4.To demonstrate and measure our project's impact, we will utilize both quantitative and qualitative metrics:

• User Metrics.
• User Feedback.
• Community Engagement.

Unique Aspects of Our Solution.

5.What makes our solution unique is its focus on decentralization and interoperability in the gaming sector:

• Decentralized Ownership.
• Cross-Platform Functionality.
• Sustainable Game Economies.

Importance to Cardano.

6.Our project holds significant importance for the Cardano ecosystem:

• Showcasing Innovation: It serves as a use case for Cardano's smart contract capabilities, attracting developers and projects interested in building on the platform.
• Community Growth: By expanding the user base and fostering engagement across diverse groups, we contribute to the overall growth and adoption of Cardano.
• Inspiring Future Projects: Our innovative approach can inspire further exploration and development within the Cardano community, showcasing the potential of blockchain technology in various industries.

In summary, our proposed solution not only addresses critical challenges in the gaming industry but also provides a unique opportunity for the Cardano community to expand its reach and demonstrate the potential of blockchain technology in creating new, engaging experiences for users

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

Our project will create a decentralized gaming ecosystem powered by Cardano, driving adoption of its blockchain for mainstream use cases. By integrating blockchain-based in-game asset ownership, we will attract both gamers and developers to the Cardano platform, enhancing the ecosystem’s utility and expanding its user base.

1.Measuring Impact:

• Quantitative: Growth in Cardano transactions, new wallet creations, and active users in our platform. Metrics such as the number of in-game assets tokenized, trades conducted, and player earnings will be tracked.
• Qualitative: Feedback from users and developers regarding enhanced gameplay experience, security, and engagement with the Cardano blockchain.

2.Sharing Outputs and Opportunities:

• We will openly share our progress, including code repositories, platform architecture, and user guides, with the wider Cardano community via GitHub and developer forums.
• Regular updates through community channels (social media, Cardano forums) and partnerships with other Cardano-based projects will help spread knowledge and foster collaboration.

[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?

Capability to Deliver the Project with Trust and Accountability.

1.Existing Expertise and Experience:

• Blockchain Development: Our team has extensive experience in developing blockchain solutions, particularly on the Cardano platform. We have successfully completed projects related to smart contracts such as applying blockchain to medical record storage......

• Gaming Industry Knowledge: We have a strong understanding of gaming platforms, having worked on various gaming projects. Our experience includes developing engaging user interfaces and integrating complex game mechanics.
• Technical Proficiency: We are skilled in using weak design development tools like Plutus for creating smart contracts, React, Unity and Next.js for frontend development.

2.Feasibility Validation

• We will build a functional prototype in the initial phases of the project to demonstrate core features such as asset tokenization, secure transactions, and smart contract operations. This prototype will help validate our approach and gather user feedback.
• After developing the prototype, we will conduct user testing sessions to gather insights and identify areas for improvement. This iterative feedback loop ensures the platform is aligned with user needs and expectations.
• We will perform comprehensive audits of our smart contracts and platform security with the help of third-party auditing firms. This step will validate the robustness of our security measures and the functionality of our smart contracts.

3.Financial Management and Accountability

• Transparent Budgeting: We will create a detailed budget that outlines how funds will be allocated across various project phases. This budget will be made available to stakeholders, ensuring transparency in financial management.
• Regular Reporting: We will provide regular updates to stakeholders regarding fund usage and project milestones. These updates will include progress reports, budget reviews, and any adjustments needed to stay on track.
• Accountability Mechanisms: We will implement internal controls to track expenses and ensure they align with the budget.
• Stakeholder Involvement: We will involve stakeholders in key decision-making processes, particularly concerning budget adjustments and project direction. This collaborative approach fosters trust and ensures that all voices are heard.

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

1.Platform Design and Architecture (1 months)

• Market Research and Analysis: Conduct surveys and interviews with gamers and developers to identify their needs and preferences regarding blockchain integration in gaming.
• UI/UX Design: Create intuitive designs tailored for gaming integration, focusing on enhancing user experience and engagement.
• Blockchain Architecture Definition: Outline the architecture for in-game asset management, ensuring scalability, security, and interoperability across different games and platforms.
• Project Management Setup: Establish project management frameworks and development pipelines to streamline workflow and ensure timely delivery of milestones.
• Technical Specifications: Develop detailed technical documentation for the integration of blockchain technology, including smart contracts and API specifications.
• Prototyping: Begin initial prototyping of the user interface and blockchain functionality to gather early feedback and iterate on designs.

2.Frontend and Backend Development (4 months)

• User-Friendly Gaming Interface: Develop an engaging and intuitive gaming interface using React.js, ensuring ease of navigation and interaction for users.
• Seamless Blockchain Interaction: Implement smooth interactions between the user interface and blockchain features, allowing players to easily access and manage their in-game assets.
• Smart Contract Design: Create robust smart contracts for asset ownership, trading, and transfers using Aiken and Lucid, ensuring security, transparency, and compliance with the defined business logic.
• Backend Development: Build a scalable backend to manage in-game data, handle user authentication, and facilitate communication with the blockchain for asset transactions.
• Integration Testing: Conduct thorough testing to ensure seamless integration between the frontend interface and backend functionalities, as well as the blockchain components.

3.Prototype Testing and User Feedback (1 month)

• Launch Small-Scale Testnet:
• Create a testnet for users to interact with core features, mimicking mainnet functionality.
• Include an onboarding phase to familiarize players with game mechanics and blockchain features.
• User Interaction and Feedback Collection:
• Provide tutorials to guide gameplay and asset management.
• Gather feedback through surveys and forums to identify improvements.
• Official Game Launch:
• Set a launch date on the Cardano mainnet, generating excitement within the community.
• Host a launch event with live demos and incentives for early adopters.

4.Mainnet Deployment, Marketing, and Community Engagement (1 months)

• Deploy on Cardano Mainnet: Launch the final version of the platform on the Cardano mainnet, ensuring all features are functional and secure.
• Marketing Campaign: Execute a comprehensive marketing strategy targeting gamers and developers to promote the platform and drive user adoption.
• Collect Post-Launch Feedback: Analyze feedback from users after the mainnet launch to identify strengths and weaknesses in the platform, guiding future enhancements.
• Community Engagement Initiatives: Host webinars and workshops to engage with the Cardano and gaming communities, sharing insights, updates, and fostering collaboration for further development.

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

1.Phùng Thế Anh - Project Manager/Frontend Developer

• Responsibilities: Responsible for building user interface with React.js, ensuring the user experience is smooth and friendly. Work closely with Game Designer to realize design ideas. 
• Bio: There are economic, math and blockchain research projects.
• LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-anh-phung-ab0167329/
• GitHub: https://github.com/ptanh05
• Email: anh018031@gmail.com
• Telegram: https://t.me/Phungtheanh05

2.Nguyễn Tuấn - Backend Developer

• Responsibilities: Developing server-side logic, managing database interactions, and ensuring data security and integrity.
• LinkedIn:www.linkedin.com/in/tuấn-nguyễn-văn-48b295332
• GitHub:https://github.com/tuant63
• Email: trung1tin@gmail.com
• Telegram:https://t.me/Tuan24x

3.Nguyễn Việt Hoàng - Game Developer

• Responsibilities: Designing and developing gameplay mechanics, integrating game assets, and optimizing game performance.
• LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/nguyen-viet-hoang-7a705b315/?fbclid=IwY2xjawF0Ij5leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHcUkBj4iqW8iw0lK0DR0M_NlOhlkBX1uW20o3rjLU9DT-h6AhciQPbY1pQ_aem_5zY4bf0sPGqQRb7mzkGOow
• GitHub:https://github.com/NguyenVietHoang725
• Email:hoangnv725@gmail.com
• Telegram:https://t.me/hoangnguyen725

4.Đức Dương - UI/UX Designer

• Responsibilities: Creating intuitive user interfaces, conducting user research, and designing engaging user experiences.
• LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/d%C6%B0%C6%A1ng-tr%E1%BA%A7n-%C4%91%E1%BB%A9c-a1b36a332/
• GitHub:https://github.com/hanhercales
• Email:tdduong2912@gmail.com
• Telegram:https://web.telegram.org/k/#@HanHercales

5.Trần Hữu Hưng - Smart Contract Developer

• Responsibilities: Developing and auditing smart contracts, ensuring security and functionality within the blockchain ecosystem.
• LinkedIn:www.linkedin.com/in/trần-hưng-bbb273332
• GitHub:https://github.com/g1BSsQ
• Email:hungboycl@gmail.com
• Telegram:https://t.me/g1BSsQ

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

Here’s a detailed cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources for the project:

1. Platform Design and Architecture: 6,000 ADA

• Details: This phase includes designing the architecture for both the gaming platform and the blockchain integration, as well as establishing the underlying structure for in-game asset ownership and marketplace features.
• Resources Needed:
• Design Tools/Software: Costs for using software like Figma for design mockups and system architecture tools (e.g., Lucidchart).
• Consultation Fees: Engaging experienced blockchain consultants to review architecture.
• Estimated Allocation:
• Design tools and software licenses: 1,000 ADA
• Consultant fees: 5,000 ADA

2. Frontend Development: 8,000 ADA

• Details: Building a user-friendly interface for the game, including responsive design, integration with blockchain features, and a decentralized wallet interface.
• Resources Needed:
• Frontend Frameworks: Libraries such as React.js or Vue.js.
• Third-Party Services: Hosting services (e.g., Vercel, Netlify) for development and staging environments.
• Graphic Design Tools: Tools like Adobe Creative Suite for creating visual assets.
• Estimated Allocation:
• Frontend development tools and libraries: 1,500 ADA
• Development resources (contracted developers): 6,000 ADA
• Hosting and staging services: 500 ADA

3. Backend and Smart Contract Development: 10,000 ADA

• Details: Creating the backend logic for the game, including blockchain smart contracts for in-game assets and transaction handling, and integration with Cardano.
• Resources Needed:
• Development Tools: IDEs such as Visual Studio Code or JetBrains tools.
• Node Infrastructure: For running a Cardano node to interact with the blockchain.
• Code Auditing: Third-party audit services to ensure smart contract security.
• Estimated Allocation:
• Backend development resources: 6,500 ADA
• Smart contract development: 2,500 ADA
• Code auditing services: 1,000 ADA

4. Prototype Testing and Feedback: 5,000 ADA

• Details: Conducting tests on the prototype, including user feedback sessions, bug tracking, and iterative improvements.
• Resources Needed:
• Testing Tools: Bug tracking software (e.g., JIRA, Bugzilla) and automated testing services.
• User Testing Incentives: Compensation for test users providing feedback.
• Estimated Allocation:
• Testing tools and software: 1,000 ADA
• User testing incentives: 2,000 ADA
• Iterative development (addressing bugs and feedback): 2,000 ADA

5. Mainnet Deployment and Marketing: 7,000 ADA

• Details: Launching the project on the Cardano mainnet, promoting the launch, and acquiring initial users.
• Resources Needed:
• Deployment Services: Fees for mainnet deployment, including transaction costs.
• Marketing Campaigns: Running targeted social media ads, community outreach, and promotional content creation.
• Estimated Allocation:
• Mainnet deployment costs: 2,000 ADA
• Marketing expenses (ads, content): 4,000 ADA
• Community outreach (events, influencers): 1,000 ADA

6. Post-Launch Enhancements and Community Engagement: 4,000 ADA

• Details: Addressing feedback from the initial launch, rolling out updates, and engaging the community for continued project growth.
• Resources Needed:
• Community Management Tools: Software for managing community engagement and monitoring user feedback (e.g., Discord bots, forums).
• Continuous Development: Funds allocated for ongoing improvements and feature additions.
• Estimated Allocation:
• Community management tools and subscriptions: 1,000 ADA
• Post-launch development resources: 2,500 ADA
• Community events and incentives: 500 ADA

Additional Budget Considerations:

• Project Management (500 ADA): Allocated for tools like Trello or Asana and time spent on project coordination.
• Documentation (500 ADA): For creating detailed documentation, tutorials, and developer guides.
• Legal and Compliance (1,000 ADA): Costs for ensuring regulatory compliance, including legal consultations for smart contract deployment and in-game asset ownership.

Total Project Cost: 40,000 ADA

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

Our project offers substantial value for money by strategically aligning with the interests of the Cardano ecosystem while unlocking new potentials in the rapidly growing gaming industry. Here's how our cost structure represents a wise and justifiable investment:

1. Strategic Use of Blockchain to Add Real Value

• The gaming industry is a massive global market, estimated to be worth over $200 billion in 2023, with a projected growth trajectory. By introducing real-world value for in-game assets through blockchain technology, we will drive Cardano adoption and increase on-chain activity.
• Our project focuses on true ownership of digital assets, which goes beyond traditional gaming models. By allowing players to buy, sell, and trade in-game assets on the blockchain, we create new business models, incentivize user engagement, and integrate the play-to-earn concept.

2. Open-Source Development: Shared Value for the Cardano Ecosystem

• Our approach is open-source, meaning that the codebase, tools, and solutions we develop will be freely available to the community. This allows other developers to adopt, improve, and build upon our work, fostering innovation across the Cardano ecosystem.
• The project's outcomes will serve as a reference model for future blockchain gaming projects, potentially leading to new use cases and innovations within Cardano’s smart contract capabilities.

3. Justification for the Costs

• Cost Structure Calculation: We’ve set our budget based on average wages for skilled roles in the blockchain and gaming industry. For example, in Vietnam, where our team is located, typical freelance rates for developers range from $20 to $50 per hour, which is considerably lower than in Western countries. Our proposed rates are competitive yet reflect fair compensation to attract and retain skilled talent.
• Milestone-Based Funding: We’ve broken down the project into well-defined milestones, each associated with specific deliverables. This ensures that funds are disbursed only when measurable progress is demonstrated, reducing risks and ensuring accountability.

4. Cost Efficiency: Getting the Most Impact for the Funds

• By hiring local talent and leveraging cost-efficient freelance rates, we achieve more with our budget. We prioritize skilled labor in our cost allocation, such as developers and designers, while keeping administrative expenses minimal.
• We’ve benchmarked our costs against similar projects in the industry. For instance, typical blockchain game development projects have budgets that often exceed $100,000 for basic features. Our more streamlined approach ensures maximum value without compromising on quality or project scope.

5. Impact on the Cardano Ecosystem

• Our project aims to increase Cardano's transaction volume and utility through gaming use cases, driving wider adoption of ADA. By attracting gamers and developers to the ecosystem, we create a positive feedback loop of growth and innovation.
• Blockchain-based gaming represents a natural fit for Cardano’s technology stack, particularly with its emphasis on scalability and cost-efficient transactions. Our project helps showcase these strengths, positioning Cardano as a leader in decentralized gaming.

In summary, our budget reflects a careful balance between cost efficiency and project impact, with an emphasis on long-term benefits for the Cardano ecosystem. By optimizing resource use and ensuring each expenditure contributes directly to our goals, we provide exceptional value for the requested funds.