Introduction
Play-to-Earn (P2E) gaming took the crypto world by storm during the 2021–2022 boom, but only a handful of projects have stood the test of time. Fast-forward to 2025, and the landscape looks much more mature. The hype-driven titles have faded, leaving behind a new generation of sustainable blockchain games that focus on long-term tokenomics, player experience, and real utility.
In this article, we highlight the Top 10 Play-to-Earn games still thriving in 2025, offering players both fun and genuine earning opportunities.
1. Axie Infinity (AXS)
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Why it’s still thriving: Despite setbacks in 2022, Axie Infinity evolved its model with Axie Infinity: Origins and upgraded land gameplay.
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Earning model: Smooth Love Potion (SLP) farming, land staking, and AXS governance rewards.
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Unique feature: A massive player base in Southeast Asia keeps liquidity alive.
2. The Sandbox (SAND)
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Why it’s thriving: A leader in metaverse land sales and digital experiences, now with partnerships from brands and creators.
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Earning model: Selling NFTs, creating custom metaverse experiences, staking SAND.
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Unique feature: An expanding ecosystem of virtual concerts, events, and branded content.
3. Decentraland (MANA)
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Why it’s thriving: A pioneer in metaverse worlds that continues to host virtual events, conferences, and gaming hubs.
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Earning model: Renting/selling digital real estate, NFT wearables, MANA staking.
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Unique feature: Strong community-driven DAO governance.
4. Illuvium (ILV)
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Why it’s thriving: One of the most polished AAA blockchain RPGs with stunning visuals and deep gameplay.
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Earning model: Battle rewards, NFT Illuvial sales, staking ILV.
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Unique feature: Cross-platform interoperability and land-based resource farming.
5. Gala Games (GALA)
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Why it’s thriving: A multi-game ecosystem that offers P2E across different genres — RPG, FPS, and strategy.
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Earning model: Node rewards, in-game NFTs, and token rewards from multiple titles.
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Unique feature: Community-owned gaming network with frequent new releases.
6. My Neighbor Alice (ALICE)
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Why it’s thriving: A casual farming and building game with strong appeal to non-crypto players.
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Earning model: Trading land plots, NFT farming tools, and ALICE staking.
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Unique feature: Social gameplay encourages collaboration and trading.
7. Star Atlas (ATLAS)
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Why it’s thriving: A massive space strategy game with epic visuals built on Solana.
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Earning model: Space exploration, mining resources, ship battles, and ATLAS rewards.
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Unique feature: Dual-token economy (ATLAS + POLIS) for governance and gameplay.
8. Splinterlands (SPS)
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Why it’s thriving: A blockchain trading card game that remains one of the most active P2E communities.
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Earning model: SPS rewards, card NFT sales, ranked battles.
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Unique feature: Consistent tournaments and guild competitions.
9. Gods Unchained (GODS)
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Why it’s thriving: A polished card-based strategy game often compared to Hearthstone.
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Earning model: Trading NFT cards, earning GODS tokens from ranked wins.
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Unique feature: Free-to-play onboarding makes it accessible to mainstream gamers.
10. Big Time (BIGTIME)
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Why it’s thriving: A fast-rising action RPG with time-travel mechanics and strong tokenomics.
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Earning model: NFT loot drops, cosmetic sales, BIGTIME token farming.
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Unique feature: Blends MMORPG mechanics with blockchain-powered ownership.
Conclusion
The Play-to-Earn (P2E) space has evolved — it’s no longer just about speculation but about sustainable ecosystems, enjoyable gameplay, and real digital ownership. The top 10 games listed above have proven that P2E is not a passing trend but a new frontier in gaming.
For investors and players alike, keeping an eye on these projects in 2025 can unlock both entertainment and financial opportunities.
👉 Pro Tip: Always do your own research (DYOR) before investing in in-game tokens or NFTs.
