Axie Infinity is one of the OG blockchain games and has gained popularity due to its adorable collectible creatures matched with an intrinsic gameplay.

The visuals of Axie Infinity are a standout feature, blending a mix of 2D and 3D graphics to create a whimsical and enchanting world. The lush, vibrant environments and the intricately designed Axies themselves are a feast for the eyes and bring the game's world to life. The attention to detail in character animations, particle effects, and overall presentation helps to create a fully immersive experience for players. Additionally, the use of different camera angles and visual effects during battles adds a level of excitement and tension that truly brings the gameplay to life.

In the original version of the game, players were required to purchase at least 3 Axies to start playing, which, at times, was a significant upfront cost that deterred many potential players from even trying the game. However, with the release of Axie Infinity Origins, this issue has been addressed. All players are now given 3 free starter Axies to test the game and see if they like it before making any further purchases.

It's important to note that these 3 starter Axies are not NFTs and cannot be traded in the marketplace.

Axie Infinity Origins brings several other changes to the gameplay. One of the main differences is the energy system, which now only has 3 energies per round that don't carry over. This shift encourages an aggressive playstyle where players must make the most of each turn. Another change is the standardization of HP, with all Axies now having 320 HP.

In addition to these gameplay changes, the Origins update introduces Runes and Charms, which can be NFTs minted on the Ronin network as well as non-NFTs. These items add a new level of depth to the game by letting players improve their summoned units, heal their health, or boost their stats. Each team can only use a maximum of 18 charms. This gives them some room to be creative while still giving them enough limits to make strategic decisions.

Runes and Charms are minted using SLP and AXS, with the AXS portion pegged at $3 USD per item.

Axies

In Axie Infinity, the team composition you choose is crucial in determining the outcome of a battle. Each Axie class has its own strengths and weaknesses, and choosing the right combination of classes and utilizing your action cards effectively can give you an advantage over your opponent.

These creatures come with their own unique set of four action cards, giving players a total of twelve options to defeat their opponents.

Building a team requires careful consideration of the synergy between the Axies, as their mixture of classes greatly affects the pace and strategy of the game. There are nine different classes to choose from, including Beast, Bug, Plant, Dusk, Bird, Aquatic, Dawn, Mech, and Reptile. Some classes can only be obtained by breeding specific combinations of Axies. For example, you will get a Dusk Axie if you breed a Reptile Axie with an Aquatic Axie.

Game Modes

The game has two modes, Adventure Mode and Arena Mode, both with similar battle mechanics.

Adventure Mode is a player vs. environment (PvE) mode where players battle against bot enemies and progress through levels to earn experience points. The Adventure Mode features a storyline divided into Chapters, each consisting of 7 big stages and 12 small stages. The big stages have specific challenges that players must complete in order to collect stars.

Arena Mode is where PvP (player vs. player) gameplay takes place. You have the opportunity to join Ranked Matches or Tournaments and compete for bigger rewards.

Axie Infinity was clearly inspired by the Pokémon games for its collectible creature mechanics, but the actual combat is more resemblant of any other trading card game. Players draw action cards and can only use what is in their hands to attack, defend, and use abilities. It’s a fine system, and Axie Infinity combat is just as enjoyable as the games that inspired it.

Coming out victorious in PvP matches earns you resources that you can convert into real money (which we will go over in the next section), but you can’t play Axie Infinity…well, infinitely.

There is a Stamina system in place to prevent excessive leveling up and inflation caused by exploitative actions like grinding and botting. It is still possible to continue playing, but you won’t continue to earn valuable resources.

Playing an Arena or Adventure round will use one of those points.

The amount of stamina that you will have is determined by the total of starter and NFT Axies that you have and is capped at 60 per day.

At the start of each turn, you will draw 5 cards from your deck of 18 cards. You can use the abilities of the cards by tapping on them, and the cards you use will go into the discard pile. You will have 3 Energy at the start of each turn, and as you play the cards, your energy will decrease. Once you have used all your energy or have no more cards to play, tap "End Turn," and any unused cards and energy will be discarded.

The health of your opponent's Axies is displayed by the bars above their heads, and the goal is to reduce their health to 0 before they can do the same to you. The winner will receive rewards such as power-ups or crafting materials.

In Adventure Mode, you can unlock new chapters in the storyline, and in Ranked Arena Mode, you can collect Victory Stars and climb to higher ranks.

Esports

Axie Infinity's focus on skill-based gameplay makes it suitable for esports. Its popularity has led to the creation of numerous tournaments and various prize pools. On the 2023 calendar, there are a number of events around the world where the best players will compete for valuable prizes. The Axie team has provided funding in $AXS tokens to tournament organizers to host competitive contests.

With the growing popularity of Axie as a top blockchain game, tournaments and competitions are becoming more frequent.