​The rise and fall of click-to-earn games on Telegram has marked a pivotal shift in Web3 gaming. Notcoin, once a leader in the tap-to-earn model, now declares the genre unsustainable as developers pivot toward immersive, community-focused experiences. This article explores how Telegram’s gaming ecosystem is evolving, blending AI innovation, social interaction, and sustainable incentives to redefine Web3’s future.

​​The Decline of Click-to-Earn: Why Sustainability Failed​​
Click-to-earn games like Notcoin initially captivated millions by simplifying crypto adoption. With over 30 million users in three months, Notcoin’s success highlighted Telegram’s potential as a Web3 gateway. However, co-founder Vladimir Plotvinov notes that the model’s reliance on token farming led to transient engagement. Players prioritized profit over gameplay, causing rapid user churn. As developers recognize this flaw, they’re abandoning pure monetization mechanics for deeper value propositions.

​​Social Gaming: Where Fun Meets Community​​
Telegram’s next wave of games emphasizes shared experiences. Notcoin’s design lead, Uliana Salo, explains that modern players seek “joyful moments with friends” rather than isolated grinding. Projects now integrate collaborative quests, guild systems, and narrative choices—mirroring traditional gaming’s social appeal. For instance, Notcoin’s upcoming titles incorporate story-driven missions where players vote on in-game outcomes, fostering emotional investment. This shift positions Web3 as an enhancement rather than the core draw, aligning with platforms like WeChat and Facebook’s gaming ecosystems.

​​AI’s Role in Accelerating Game Development​​
Artificial intelligence is turbocharging Telegram’s Web3 evolution. Vladimir Plotvinov highlights how AI streamlines coding, enabling faster prototyping and scalability. For example, Notcoin’s team uses AI to optimize backend processes and manage high user loads. However, he cautions developers to balance automation with expertise: “Understanding APIs and system architecture remains critical to avoid technical debt.” This hybrid approach allows studios to experiment with complex mechanics, such as dynamic NFT evolution tied to player decisions.

​​Telegram’s Gaming Future: Exponential Growth Ahead​​
Despite early challenges, Telegram’s gaming sector is poised for explosion. Salo compares its trajectory to mobile gaming’s rise, citing Telegram’s 900 million active users as fertile ground for innovation. While funding and AAA publishers remain scarce, grassroots projects are testing hybrid models—mixing free-to-play accessibility with tokenized rewards. Notcoin’s pivot exemplifies this strategy, layering DeFi elements atop casual gameplay. Analysts predict Telegram could become a hub for “snackable” Web3 games, blending short sessions with long-term engagement loops.

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The click-to-earn era’s demise signals a maturation phase for Web3 gaming. Telegram’s focus on social interaction, AI-powered development, and sustainable economies reflects a broader industry trend: prioritizing player retention over quick profits. As developers harness these tools, Telegram may emerge as the bridge between mainstream audiences and decentralized technologies—proving that blockchain’s true value lies not in speculation, but in shared digital experiences.