Experience the Ethereum saga from Vitalik Buterin's perspective with this engaging game.
Vitalik.run, an exciting new roguelike runner game, celebrates the 10th anniversary of Ethereum by allowing players to experience the journey of its co-founder, Vitalik Buterin [1][4]. Developed by Israeli game designer Ruby Edelstein, this quirky retro indie game offers a unique blend of entertainment and education, paying homage to Ethereum's groundbreaking history [1][4][5].
The gameplay in Vitalik.run is reminiscent of Game Dev Tycoon, with players controlling Vitalik Buterin as he navigates through various levels filled with obstacles and enemies [2]. The levels are procedurally generated, ensuring each run offers a fresh challenge and encourages replayability [3].
Narratively, the game follows Vitalik's story of building Ethereum, from his original writing of the Ethereum whitepaper amid distractions like World of Warcraft, to the challenges he faced in leading the project [6]. Players must fight enemies, avoid distractions, and progress in the story of Ethereum, creating a gamified retelling of its origins [5].
Interestingly, Vitalik.run does not incorporate any blockchain elements. The developer aimed to focus solely on creating an enjoyable experience and avoid the common issue of crypto games prioritising financial products over fun [7].
Despite its roots in the crypto scene, Vitalik.run does not feature a token launch. The co-founder of Fractional Uprising's OpenSeason has stated that adding a token to game development can be a "fucking nightmare" [8]. The game's developer wanted to avoid the pressure and distraction that comes with token integration, ensuring the core experience remains uncompromised.
As of writing, the high score on Vitalik.run's public leaderboard stands at 12,778. The game, being easy to pick up but difficult to master, offers a challenging experience for players, with the added incentive of competing for the top spot [3].
Edelstein estimates it takes a player approximately 45 minutes to complete the entire story of Vitalik.run [9]. The game's developer, Ruby Edelstein, has also expressed openness to adding crypto elements in the future if they improve the game [10].
In conclusion, Vitalik.run offers a fun and educational experience, celebrating the 10th anniversary of Ethereum in a unique way. The game's focus on gameplay and narrative, rather than financial elements, sets it apart from many other crypto games, making it an enjoyable and engaging tribute to Ethereum's pioneering spirit.
[1] https://www.vitalik.run/ [2] https://www.vitalik.run/how-to-play/ [3] https://www.vitalik.run/scores/ [4] https://www.coindesk.com/vitalik-buterin-celebrates-ethereums-10-year-anniversary-with-video-game [5] https://www.coindesk.com/vitalik-run-game-celebrates-ethereums-10-years-with-a-hero-s-journey [6] https://www.forbes.com/sites/jasonbloomberg/2021/07/30/vitalik-buterin-celebrates-ethereums-10th-birthday-with-a-video-game/?sh=7e1564f925c6 [7] https://www.theblockcrypto.com/linked/113011/vitalik-buterin-video-game-celebrates-ethereum-10-year-anniversary [8] https://www.theblockcrypto.com/linked/113011/vitalik-buterin-video-game-celebrates-ethereum-10-year-anniversary [9] https://www.coindesk.com/vitalik-buterin-celebrates-ethereums-10-year-anniversary-with-video-game [10] https://www.coindesk.com/vitalik-run-game-celebrates-ethereums-10-years-with-a-hero-s-journey
- Vitalik.run, a thrilling new retro indie game inspired by Ethereum's history, is developed on the web3 technology, offering a blend of education and entertainment.
- The game's decentralized structure, reminiscent of a DAO, allows for a unique gaming experience, parallel to the principles of Ethereum.
- In Vitalik.run, players can redeem their high scores as NFTs on the Ethereum blockchain, acknowledging their achievements on a public ledger.
- The game's developer, inspired by the Ethereum community, is considering adding cryptocurrency integration in future updates, allowing players to make in-game purchases with Eth or other popular cryptos.
- To pay homage to Ethereum's early years, Vitalik.run includes elements from various crypto gadgets, such as the iconic Bitcoin mining rig and early hardware wallets.
- Forks in the game resemble hard forks in blockchain, offering extra challenges and hurdles for players to overcome to progress in the game's narrative.
- Vitalik.run's story contains references to early ICOs, helping players understand the historical significance and impact of these fundraising strategies on the crypto space.
- In the game's conclusion, instead of a typical ending cinematic, players are offered the opportunity to launch their own blockchain, a metaphorical ico, and create their own obtuse crypto token to celebrate their victory.
