Yuga Labs has announced the release of an early version of ‘Legends of Mara’ for open beta testing, encouraging players to experience the game and provide valuable feedback as development progresses. They also announced a partnership with the video game publisher Far away to build an extension in Unity for their open beta. The aim of this partnership is not only to take the game to the next level, but also to actively involve the community in its development.
Other side: Metaverse Gaming Venture from Yuga Labs
Last year, Yuga Labs launched Otherside, described as a “gamified, interoperable metaverse.” This platform combines elements of MMORPG gaming, similar to what you see in ‘World of Warcraft’, with the decentralized features of blockchain-based virtual worlds such as ‘The Sandbox’ and ‘Decentraland’. Players in this metaverse can own virtual land through special NFTs known as Other deeds.
For the uninitiated, the game’s open beta is designed to introduce players to features like “Otherdeed Powers.” Here players can explore the metaverse and collect rewards that become more relevant as the game expands.
Legend of the Mara: gameplay and features
Legends of the Mara itself is a 2D strategy game with a related collecting aspect. Players can secure a ship, unlock its capabilities, and chart their unique journey in the near future. Kodas serve as Otherside’s main guardians.
The centerpiece of the expansion are Maras, creatures that players can collect and evolve. These creatures are divided into three types: hunters, farmers and wizards. Each type has unique abilities and can be assigned to players’ Otherdeed land lots. The Maras help generate resources and defend the land against various threats. Although the game is free to play, possession of an Otherdeed NFT is a requirement to participate.
A snapshot of Yuga Labs’ portfolio
Founded in 2021, Yuga Labs has quickly risen to prominence in the digital asset landscape. With a valuation of $4 billion, the company specializes in developing NFTs related to gaming products and digital collectibles. The company is home to several popular NFT collections such as the Mutant Ape Yacht Club, Bored Ape Yacht Club, and Bored Ape Kennel Club. Furthermore, Yuga Labs owns the intellectual property rights for the well-known NFT collections CryptoPunks and Meebits.
In short: Yuga Labs and Faraway have teamed up to bring new dimensions to the game ‘Legend of The Mara’. The Faraway enables the creation of diverse virtual environments such as games, social hubs and educational institutions. It is designed with ease of use in mind and is suitable for those with no previous background in game development.
Both companies hope to deliver a more intricate and engaging gaming experience as the open beta release looms. With features like Otherdeeds and Maras, the game presents a new approach to virtual ownership and gameplay, adding a new chapter to Yuga Labs’ ever-evolving story.