February 2025 – GMGames.gg here with our regular roundup of web3 gaming news that you need to be aware of. This time a we are looking at three blockchain gaming projects that are making headlines- Shrapnel, Star Atlas, and Immortal Rising 2 – as they roll out significant updates to their platforms.
Shrapnel Introduces Free-to-Play Model and New Features
Shrapnel marks a significant milestone with its transition to an “always-on play” model, adopting a free-to-play approach. The game introduces several new features that boost player engagement and rewards.
The new Schematics and Printer system serves as a blueprint mechanism for in-game items. Players can now create weapon skins and charms by paying a small fee in SHARP tokens. Early participants who joined pre-play sessions receive exclusive pre-launch schematics, which they can trade on the marketplace.
A new Recycle Depot system allows players to repurpose existing skins. By investing SHARP tokens, players can recycle their skins for random items, with higher investments yielding better rewards. The game also introduces operators with unique abilities, available through the marketplace. Extraction Pack holders can claim operators as rewards, while Operator NFT holders will receive them through airdrops.
Star Atlas Shows Substantial Technical Progress
Star Atlas demonstrated significant technical advancement throughout 2024, particularly with its Unreal Engine 5 implementation. The February update brings notable improvements to combat and multiplayer features:
- Species-specific health stats and movement speeds
- Enhanced combat mechanics with improved kill animations
- Better multiplayer navigation using waypoint markers
- Optimized bot respawn system
- Enhanced grenade mechanics
The development team streamlined the onboarding process by making wallet creation optional, though wallet users benefit from improved recovery systems and better password recognition. The Fleet Command mode received visual upgrades, including new scanning visuals, mining animations, and thruster effects.
Project Galia, an experimental mode, now lets players explore space sectors and discover planets. The multiplayer experience improved with private lobbies and post-match ranking displays.
Immortal Rising 2 Unveils 2025 Roadmap
Immortal Rising 2, a Web3 RPG on the Immutable platform, released its 2025 roadmap with quarterly milestones:
Q1 2025:
- Introduction of the IMT token
- Ability to swap in-game Starlite earnings for IMT
- New earning and spending mechanisms
Q2 2025:
- Launch of functional NFTs including weapons and armor
- Introduction of unique avatars
- Implementation of guild competition system
Q3 2025:
- New in-game world release
- Additional boss encounters
- Updated competition mechanics
Q4 2025:
- Introduction of guild championships
- Inter-server battles
- New faction system dividing players between Celestials and Infernals
- Discord integration for faction-based communication
Players interested in participating can join Launch Pool Season 3 before February 11th, preparing for the upcoming token launch.
Key Takeaways
Shrapnel Updates
Free-to-Play Launch: Moving to “always-on” gameplay model
New Features:
- Schematics and Printer system for weapon skins
- Recycle Depot for trading skins
- Operator system with unique abilities
Rewards: Pre-launch schematics for early participants
Star Atlas Technical Progress
Combat Improvements:
- Species-specific health stats
- Enhanced combat animations
- Better waypoint navigation
- Optimized bot spawns
Quality of Life:
- Optional wallet creation
- Improved recovery systems
- Better Fleet Command visuals
New Content: Project Galia space exploration mode
Immortal Rising 2 – 2025 Roadmap
Q1 2025:
- IMT token launch
- Starlite to IMT swap system
Q2 2025:
- Functional NFT launch
- Guild competition system
Q3 2025:
- New world expansion
- Additional boss content
Q4 2025:
- Guild championships
- Faction system launch
- Discord integration
Current Opportunity: Launch Pool Season 3 open until February 11th
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shrapnel’s new free-to-play model?
Shrapnel is transitioning to an “always-on play” system that’s free to play. Players can create weapon skins and charms using the new Schematics and Printer system by paying a small fee in SHARP tokens.
How does the Recycle Depot work in Shrapnel?
The Recycle Depot allows players to recycle their existing skins for random items by investing SHARP tokens. Higher investments in the recycling process yield better rewards.
What are the major Star Atlas updates for February 2025?
Star Atlas introduced species-specific health stats, improved combat mechanics, better multiplayer navigation, and enhanced visual effects. They’ve also made wallet creation optional for new players and added private lobby features.
What is Project Galia in Star Atlas?
Project Galia is an experimental mode where players can fly through space, explore different sectors, and discover planets. It serves as a preview of future Star Atlas content.
When is Immortal Rising 2 launching its IMT token?
The IMT token is scheduled to launch in Q1 2025, allowing players to swap their in-game Starlite earnings for IMT tokens.
What is the faction system in Immortal Rising 2?
Coming in Q4 2025, the faction system will divide players between Celestials and Infernals, affecting both in-game play and Discord community organization.
How can I participate in Immortal Rising 2’s Launch Pool Season 3?
Players can join Launch Pool Season 3 before February 11th, 2025, to prepare for the upcoming token launch.
Will Shrapnel operators be available on the marketplace?
Yes, operators with unique abilities will be available through the Shrapnel marketplace. Extraction Pack holders can claim operators as rewards, and Operator NFT holders will receive them through airdrops.