- Splinterlands previously launched a fantasy-based card game
- MLSPA hopes the deal will benefit its members
The Major League Soccer Players Association (MLSPA) is working on a blockchain soccer game with developer Splinterlands, hoping the card-based mechanics and play-to-earn (PTE) structure will generate revenues, as well as grow the individual brands of its members.
The partnership is Splinterlands first with a major sporting organisation and ‘Genesis League Soccer’ (GLS) will adopt the same card-based mechanics of its existing fantasy-based blockchain game, with an eye on appealing to MLS fans, as well as blockchain enthusiasts.
Players will collect and trade non-fungible token (NFT) cards based on real-life MLS players to use in games based on in-match events and player statistics.
Splinterlands intends for GLS to become the flagship title in a series of ‘Genesis League Sports’ games based on various properties.
“As the MLSPA continues to expand our players’ commercial footprint, we strive to identify partners at the cutting edge of innovation, technology, and new category creation,” said MLSPA chief operating officer, Dan Jones. “Joining forces with Splinterlands, a pioneer and demonstrated leader in the fast-expanding world of PTE gaming, allows our players to shape the future and create new gaming experiences to engage fans around the world.”
“This is an incredible innovation in the sports industry, and MLSPA is one of its biggest players,” added Jesse Reich, Splinterlands co-founder and chief executive officer.
“Web 3.0 offers new standards and development possibilities set by its community members, and these form a new pathway to massive opportunity for all involved: for those within the industry as well as for fans and sports enthusiasts.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with them in this groundbreaking model, and I look forward to these exciting ways of connecting sports, gaming, crypto, NFTs, DeFi, and blockchain technology.”
MLS itself has signed a separate deal with Sorare for it to become the league’s official NFT fantasy game.
