The intersection of gaming, blockchain, and cryptoassets is an exciting yet complex space, buzzing with innovation and riddled with regulatory uncertainties. This blog dives into the current landscape, exploring the intricate links between e-money regulations, token reward schemes, collective investment schemes, gambling and how they interact with gaming.

First, let’s acknowledge the elephant in the room: regulations. The UK, like many countries, is still grappling with how to effectively regulate this dynamic sphere. Currently, no specific “gaming and blockchain” framework exists. However, existing regulations from various authorities like the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and Gambling Commission apply depending on the nature of the activity.

If a game’s token functions like electronic money (e-money), it falls under the FCA’s Electronic Money Regulations (EMRs). This means issuers must register with the FCA and comply with stringent capital adequacy, consumer protection, and anti-money laundering (AML) requirements. This ensures stability and safeguards against financial risks.

However, many games utilize reward tokens that don’t function as e-money. These might grant access to in-game features or cosmetic upgrades but hold no real-world value. The regulatory landscape surrounding such tokens is less clear-cut. However, the FCA recently outlined principles for assessing whether tokens constitute securities or other regulated financial instruments. Determining the specific characteristics and functionalities of these tokens is crucial for understanding their regulatory implications.

If a game involves pooling tokens to invest in collective assets or generate profit, it potentially falls under the Financial Services and Markets Act (FSMA) and the FCA’s collective investment scheme (CIS) regulations. This implies stringent oversight to protect investors. However, determining if a tokenized scheme qualifies as a CIS requires careful analysis of its structure, purpose, and risk-reward profile.

A key distinction lies in how rewards are generated and managed. If players actively manage investments using the tokens, it might indicate a CIS. However, if rewards are simply earned through gameplay without active management, it’s less likely to fall under CIS regulations. This differentiation highlights the importance of understanding the token’s utility and underlying economic model.

The regulatory landscape is constantly evolving. The UK government is actively exploring a comprehensive crypto-asset regulatory framework, and the FCA is expected to issue further guidance on token classification and marketing. These developments will provide much-needed clarity and stability for businesses operating in this space.

For developers and businesses venturing into the exciting world of gaming and blockchain, staying informed about regulatory developments is crucial. Consulting legal professionals to assess the specific characteristics of your game and its token rewards is highly recommended. By taking a proactive approach to compliance, you can navigate the regulatory maze and unlock the full potential of blockchain technology in the gaming industry whilst rolling out the project without a fear of it being shut down or have assets frozen or worst-case face criminal sanctions.