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Worms developer and Overcooked! publisher Team17 has announced its intention to step into the contentious NFT market, drawing the ire of fans.
MetaWorms will be officially licensed collectible NFTs based on the series, according to the press release. These collectibles will be one of a kind, and secured and protected on the blockchain. The British games publisher has teamed up with Reality Gaming Group to make the tokens, which it claims will be “environmentally friendly” compared to other NFTs. A portion of sales will also go to Refeed Farms, a scheme to replace synthetic fertilisers using vertical worm beds.
However, if you’ve been following NFTs in games recently, you may have guessed the news hasn’t gone down well with fans on social media. Additionally, Eurogamer reports that many teams within Team 17 had no idea of the plans before they were announced today. What’s more, is that the report also claims those who were aware voiced disapproval only to have their concerns ignored.
A spokesperson for Team17 offered a statement to Eurogamer. “Team17 is licencing the Worms brand to our newest third-party partner so they can produce collectible digital artwork based on one of the most beloved IPs in indie games, in a similar way to already available physical merchandise. Team17 has no plans to introduce NFTs or play-to-earn NFT mechanics into any of its indie games label titles.”
Coincidentally, prolific gaming voice actor Troy Baker has also decided today to not pursue a previously-announced partnership with NFT company VoiceVerse following negative feedback. “Thank you all for your feedback and patience,” he tweeted. “After careful consideration, I’ve decided to not continue the partnership with VoiceVerseNFT. Intentions aside, I’ve heard you and apologize for accusing anyone of “hating” just by simply disagreeing with me.”
Thank you all for your feedback and patience. After careful consideration, I’ve decided to not continue the partnership with VoiceVerseNFT. Intentions aside, I’ve heard you and apologize for accusing anyone of “hating” just by simply disagreeing with me.
— Troy Baker (@TroyBakerVA) January 31, 2022
