Ubisoft experiments with NFTs, starting with Ghost Recon Breakpoint

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Ubisoft is exploring blockchain technology by announcing the introduction of NFTs to Ghost Recon Breakpoint through a new platform called Ubisoft Quartz. These NFTs are called Digits and will come in the form of in-game items such as vehicles, weapons, and equipment. 

“Digits are a new way to experience cosmetic items” and is a “the next step in Ubisoft’s four-year exploration of blockchain technology through in-house research and development”, says Ubisoft in their press release. 

NFTs is known for its effects on the environment as it requires a heavy amount of energy to do all the required transactions of every NFT being processed. According to Ubisoft, Digits are “energy-efficient” as Ubisoft Quarts will use Tezos, a proof-of-stake blockchain that utilizes less energy. According to Ubisoft,  “a single transaction on Tezos uses roughly the same amount of energy as streaming 30 seconds of video”.

Ubisoft has shown interest in blockchain and NFT before and has revealed their development plans during an investors call at the start of November. Ubisoft chief executive Yves Guillemot told investors that “we want to be one of the key players there”, which right now is an ideal time as there aren't that many big triple A companies exploring the technology just yet. 

In Ghost Recon Breakpoint, Ubisoft will release Digits as “part of limited Editions”, which features a fixed number of items with players only able to own one of each Edition released. The limitation of these items are intended as Digits can be resold to other players through Ubisoft Quartz. 

Ubisoft will launch its first batch of free Digits for Ghost Recon Breakpoint on December 9, December 12, and on December 15. For those interested, all you need is a copy of the game through Ubisoft Connect, have reached at least level 5 in the game, and are at least 18 years old.

You also need to live in these select countries:

  • United States

  • Canada

  • Spain

  • France

  • Germany

  • Italy

  • Belgium

  • Australia

  • Brazila

The platform Ubisoft Quarts will be available in beta starting December 9 at 1 PM EST for the countries mentioned above.

Choosing Ghost Recon Breakpoint as their first franchise to feature Digits definitely shows their hesitation in revealing this new venture to their community. How it performs  will likely determine if Digits will eventually come for other Ubisoft franchises.