Japan is known worldwide for its dedication to technological advancement and finesse. For a long time, the country was unrivaled in the realm of technological development, and even today they remain at the top of the list. Especially noteworthy is Japan’s gaming sector. Japanese companies have created some of the most popular games, and have revolutionized the medium, as well as the industry behind it.
But, the 21st century has brought about a ton of change in the tech world. Japan is no longer the top dog, as the United States and China are rapidly developing their own incredible gaming industry. Having said that, there seems to be a beacon of hope for Japan, that might place the Land of the Rising Sun back on top.
We are referencing the burgeoning Japanese blockchain and crypto markets. Reports suggest that Japan is outpacing the rest of the world in embracing cryptocurrency and blockchains. But, it isn’t just about embracing these new products, but also putting them to good use. Japanese game developers have shown that blockchain tech can not only co-exist with gaming, but also enhance the experience.
Why Blockchain Gaming is Perfect for Japan
The integration of blockchain into gaming relies on many factors. For one thing, it requires a certain forward-thinking mindset, which views technological advancements as a net positive for mankind. Of course, an industry would also require creative developers, who are just as capable of running the best online casinos for Japanese players, as they are delving into the depths and complexities of popular Japanese brands.
It is in one of these well-known brands that we can see the aspects of culture which align perfectly with crypto’s ethos. Tamagotchi is a game that requires the player to nurture a digital pet, which continues to grow over the months. The Tamagotchi has spawned several imitators, many of which have actually managed to become just as popular as their predecessor. Their success clearly shows that games like these are ingrained in the Japanese cultural psyche.
But, how does this influence cryptocurrency, or blockchains for that matter? The nurture-based games have almost certainly played a huge role in inspiring the blockchain titles, whose main focus is on enhancing and emboldening non-fungible tokens (henceforth NFTs). By engaging with a blockchain game, the player naturally improves the value of their tokens, leading to an experience that is not unlike that of taking care of a virtual pet.
Anime Studios Are Also in on it
Japan has two massive cultural exports, games and anime. While Japanese IPs may have dwindled worldwide in the gaming sector, the anime industry is thriving. Streaming services have certainly played a role in the success of anime. Netflix hosts several noteworthy titles, and Crunchyroll has done wonders for the success of anime worldwide. The growing popularity of the industry has emboldened anime studios to try their hand in branching out.
Toei Animation is among the most successful anime studios in Japan, owning the IPs to Dragon Ball and One Piece. Naturally, they would be among the first to try and branch out from anime and into the gaming sector. Unsurprisingly, they were also the first to try their hand at launching a blockchain-based game, partnering up with a South Korean company in the process. The game, DenDenGarden is currently one of the most noteworthy examples of a blockchain game. Based on the DenDekaDen IP, the title already has thousands of players.
Believe it or not, the DenDekaDen IP is not the only one to get an NFT-based game. The long-running manga and anime, Captain Tsubasa has also launched a Japan-exclusive blockchain game. It certainly could not have come at a better moment. Football is already one of Japan’s favorite sports, but Samurai Blue’s recent achievements on the international stage have kindled a new passion for the sport in younger generations.
Japan’s Approach to NFT and Blockchain Gaming
Though the Japanese mindset is geared towards blockchain gaming, Japanese developers are nothing if not cautious. They have good reason to be, considering the volatile nature of cryptocurrency, as well as the huge drop in the NFT market. But, in 2025, people are noticing a renewed interest in crypto, and developers are certainly showing interest in developing NFT-based games. Still, Japanese studios like Bandai have opted to remain cautious in their development of blockchain based games.
Of course, there are those who’ve criticized Japan’s cautious approach. Many gamers and hopeful developers believe that Japanese studious should seize the moment, and capitalize on this new and exciting market, before it fizzles out. They point to South Korea as an example of how the approach should work. South Korean studios were among the first to jump on the trend, which is why they had dominance over the market.
Others have praised Japan’s caution, once again pointing to South Korea as an example of why jumping on trends might not be a great idea. Laws passed by the South Korean government in 2021 shot the local blockchain gaming industry in the foot, which has resulted in a huge negative impact. Proponents of the cautious approach have also praised Japan’s dedication to consumer protection, stating that many Japanese studious have learned from past mistakes.
What We Can Expect to See in the Future
What we are seeing today is the dawn of a new gaming era. Blockchains are often associated with cryptocurrency, but in truth, the tech is so much more. It can serve to revolutionize the online landscape, including the gaming industry. Japan seems to stand out here, as a country uniquely compatible with the new era.
Cultural trends in Japanese gaming seem to point in the direction of a blockchain renaissance. However, as we move towards the new dawn, we should remember to tread lightly. Global regulatory measures continue to be put into place, and not many have embraced Web3 as the new status quo. On top of that, there are issues with consumer protection that need to be resolved before we dive into a full-blown blockchain revolution.
