Team17, the developers behind the classical indie game known as “Worms” has had a long week. Not quite long, the developers declared their plans to launch their first NFT project “MetaWorms”. But, due to substantial controversies from both the gaming community and their partners, the developers decided to put a stop to the project.
The developer’s initial plan was to sell exclusive editions of computer-generated, and eco-friendly artworks via Reality Gaming Group, the developers’ NFT partner. The proceeds from the NFT sales will then be invested into Refeed Farms. Refeed Farms is an investment initiative developed by Coin 4 Planet, an NFT sustainability company.
Whiffs of a glitter-covered and 3D version of the classical worm artwork were released on social media and the MetaWorm website as promotional ads. However, one interesting fact is that some team members of Team17 were completely unaware of the firm’s proposal to launch the NFT project. At least, not until the public announcement was made on the 31st of January.
To add to this, some team members of Team17 were informed of the plan after an official deal was made. Nonetheless, these team members gave their disapproval of the NFT project which was also ignored as the project was announced on Twitter to the community.
However, the community didn’t receive the news as Team17 expected. After the announcement, Worms fans shared their disapproval across the game’s social media platform. It is believed that the chaos surrounding the project is a result of the conception it emits. Metaworm being an NFT project indicates the prospect of NFT disrupting the gaming scene, something many developers and gamers are still against.
Team17 via one of their spokesperson addressed the situation stating that the company is licensing Worms to their latest third-party partner. The spokesperson claims that the partnership will be able to create collectible digital artwork developed on one of the favorite IPs in indie games. However, the company has no plans to integrate any gameplay mechanism relating to play-to-earn NFT.
Despite making this announcement, Team17, on the 1st of February, eventually made a tweet, announcing a stop to the MetaWorms NFT project. The company affirmed that they have listened to their development partners, gaming communities, and Teamsters about the concerns they’ve brought forward. To this end, the company believes that the best line of action is to step away from the NFT scene.
Therefore, it’s safe to conclude that Team17 was unable to find a way to convince fans to be onside with the project. Now, the project has been abandoned in the dirt.
