The Web3 gaming sector is experiencing an increasing concentration of senior leadership roles, signaling a shift toward a more top-heavy structure as it prepares for mainstream expansion. According to the Blockchain Gaming Association’s 2024 survey, 73.2% of respondents identified as upper management, with nearly half — 46.7% — holding C-level, founder, or director positions.
The survey, the largest yet from the association, gathered insights from 623 respondents spanning executives, developers, and professional e-sports players. The findings highlight the effects of tighter budgets and hiring slowdowns that followed the 2021 NFT boom and the subsequent crypto winter. As the industry matures, this consolidation of leadership reflects a focus on strategic decision-making and operational efficiency.
However, the influx of seasoned professionals from the traditional gaming industry may be contributing to this trend. Over half of the respondents (52.5%) cited gaming as their primary area of expertise — a significant increase from 34.2% in 2023. In contrast, specialists from blockchain and cryptocurrency backgrounds have dwindled to 10.8%, a sharp decline from the 27.4% recorded in 2021.
AAA Gaming on the Horizon
The report suggests that Web3 gaming is positioning itself for a major breakthrough into the AAA gaming market by 2025. Industry giants like Ubisoft are set to launch blockchain-based titles with significant mainstream appeal, marking a potential turning point for the sector.
Yet, challenges remain. Demographic data reveals that younger audiences are still largely absent. Individuals aged 18 to 24 made up just 6.1% of respondents, suggesting an uphill battle in attracting and nurturing next-generation talent. Without stronger engagement from younger users, sustaining long-term growth may prove difficult.
“Web3’s leadership consolidation and static demographics underscore the need to engage younger audiences and cultivate future talent,” the report warned.
Diversity Gaps Persist
Another challenge highlighted in the survey is gender diversity. The report noted that 82% of respondents identified as male, a statistic that worsens at the executive level. Among C-level executives, directors, and founders, 87.2% were male, with women representing only 12.5%.
While the Web3 blockchain gaming sector shows immense promise for mainstream adoption, these findings underscore the hurdles of inclusivity, talent development, and demographic engagement as the industry gears up for its next growth phase.
