It is difficult to avoid a discussion around NFTs today, and many are even seeing the technology creep into otherwise unrelated products. Despite some fans claiming they don't want to see NFTs in their video games, it seems that the blockchain technology will be making its way into the future of gaming. Companies such as Ubisoft have already claimed they will include NFTs in future games, and other big names like Activision Blizzard have shown interest in learning how many fans would want to see NFTs in their games.Specifically, Activision Blizzard surveyed gamers about NFTs recently via YouGov. The survey was only sent to a select few Blizzard players, asking them questions concerning which games they played most and how frequently they played various Blizzard titles. The section of the survey which had fans concerned regarded the inclusion of "new technologies" in Activision Blizzard games. These questions were about pay-to-earn cryptocurrency and NFTs, leaving some fans fearful that new games from the publisher would have these elements.The survey then directed fans to Blizzard's online store, Battle.net. In the days following the discovery of the survey, many Blizzard fans and gamers in general displayed their dissatisfaction with both the questions and how the company is looking to the future. Blizzard's President Mike Ybarra has decided to speak out in response to fan fears caused by the survey and has stated on Twitter that "no one is doing NFTs."
Ybarra took over as Blizzard President towards the end of 2021, following the company's troubles with sexual harassment lawsuits. He has since sought to rebuild Blizzard's connection with its fans and employees. However, the trust hasn't been repaired just yet. Alleged plans of NFTs in Blizzard games may again anger its fanbase. But according to Ybarra, there will be no NFT games in Blizzard's roster of titles.
Fans were split over Ybarra's tweet. Some were relieved to hear that the NFTs creeping their way into the gaming industry would not have a home at Blizzard, while others dismissed Ybarra's claim, believing that the company would not have included questions about NFTs and crypto in its survey unless it had plans to put these elements into a future title. With a new Blizzard IP on the way, some fans think that the near future could reveal the publisher's NFT plans.