Crypto games or DeFi games have made possible what was difficult for many gamers – earning by playing video games. Blockchain technology was a game-changer, and it ushered in good times for the play-to-earn games.
For a while, games based on crypto have been trending. There are now countless DeFi games on the internet. But before you go ahead and dive into one, let’s understand what exactly are DeFi games. And, we have also created a list of some of the best DeFi games to play in 2022.
What are DeFi Games?
The term “DeFi” has been created by using two words – ‘decentralized’ and ‘finance’. As the name might hint, the games work without a central authority. All the game’s transactions get logged into a public blockchain.
These games usually have a play-to-earn model and use NFTs to represent in-game items. The Non-fungible tokens can be bought from the game’s market or any other marketplace like OpenSea. The NFT assets can be traded inside the game.
DeFi games can also have their native crypto tokens. These tokens can be traded within the game without any centralization. This enables players to stake their holding and earn profits. In-game items can be bought with the native currency.
Think of the classic board game monopoly or Minecraft but based on blockchain technology. The economy inside the game is completely autonomous and free of any authoritative interference.
Top 8 DeFi Games to Check Out
Here are some of the best DeFi games that you can check out:
1. Decentraland
With the DAO and SAB, Decentraland is one of the oldest blockchain projects. Soon after the game’s launch, the DAO (Decentralized Autonomous Organization) was set up and the creators took a backseat.

© Decentraland
You, as a player, can buy LAND and start developing it. You can sell the LAND parcel or lease it for a profit. The LAND-holders can create proposals, take votes, and decide the changes that take place in the game.
So far, this is the most sophisticated metaverse game that you will come across. The VR compatibility and the unique theme make it one of the best DeFi games around.
2. Axie Infinity
Axie Infinity is currently one of the most popular crypto games. If you have played Pokemon games, you are likely to adore Axie Infinity. You unlock, breed, and train ‘Axies’, the in-game creatures. You can then fight other Axies and try to win battles.
The DeFi game runs on AXS and SLP. Based on the Ethereum blockchain, Axie Infinity is one of the best crypto breeding games to check out.
3. Alien Worlds
As the name suggests, Alien Worlds crypto game has a galactic theme. Players can hop from one planet to another in the game’s universe. The goal is to mine TLM or Trillium, Aliens World’s primary currency. Players can earn a profit by renting, leasing, or selling the land in the game.
Alien Worlds is considered to be one of the earliest DeFi games that gained 100,000 users. The game runs on the Ethereum blockchain as well as WAX and Binance Smart Chain.
4. My Neighbor Alice
My Neighbor Alice has been gaining popularity for the last few months. The DeFi game also has some building and crafting elements that appeal to all kinds of gamers.

© My Neighbor Alice
To play, you have to buy a piece of land in the game. Land is represented by NFT tokens that can be bought from Binance. You can develop your plot of land and unlock rewards if you are a ‘good’ landowner.
Apart from land, you can buy houses, animals, and other cosmetic items with Alice – the primary game currency. DeFi services like collateralization, buyback, and staking runs on Alice.
5. CryptoBlades
CryptoBlades is a popular RPG that runs on the Binance Smart Chain. The crypto game enjoys around 500,000 players every month. Players can battle against others, make their team powerful, and earn rewards. You can also create your own weapons.
To get started, you will have to buy some Binance Coins to pay the fee. Once inside, you can start taking advantage of their P2E model.
6. Splinterlands
Splinterlands is an action-packed trading card game that enjoys a wide user base. Very much like Hearthstone, you have to collect cards, train the heroes, and win battles. Winners get crypto rewards. The game has its native currency DEC,
If you are looking for card games based on crypto, then you cannot go wrong with Splinterlands. To start playing, you will have to buy the $10 starter pack. The game’s currency can be traded for HIVE and TRX.
7. The Sandbox
The Sandbox is another metaverse game that has been gaining the spotlight for a while. Just like Minecraft and Terraria, Sandbox is a 3D open-world game. Players have to explore the world, craft items, and sell the NFTs for a profit.

© The Sandbox
The Sandbox gives players the freedom to develop their land, create their own game, display their NFT art, and do much more. Some big companies own virtual land in the game. Snoop Dogg, Deadmau5, and many more have made appearances in the popular metaverse.
8. Uplands
Uplands is not your regular metaverse game. Uplands is more of a real estate trading game. The locations in the metaverse mirror the locations in the real world. Once you own a piece of land in the game, you can collect profits every few hours. You can sell or buy other properties in the game’s marketplace.
However, the in-game trade does not reflect the trade in real life. Uplands runs on its native currency UPX. This is a relatively new game with a unique concept.
Conclusion
Most of the DeFi games can be downloaded for free over a multitude of platforms. But to get started, players might have to buy some avatars or basic kits. Most of the games will require you to use a good wallet to use for games. For instance, Ethereum-based games use Meta Mask. You can check out our list of best wallets for crypto gaming.