• Google Cloud is integrated as the first voluntary validator in XPLA, powering blockchain games without receiving tokens as a reward.

• XPLA, supported by Com2uS, strengthens its blockchain network with Google Cloud, focusing on play-to-own games and community transparency.

Google Cloud has announced its incorporation as the first “volunteer validator” in the XPLA crypto gaming network. This step represents not only a breakthrough in the applications of blockchain technology in the gaming industry, but also a clear sign of the interest of large corporations in the crypto sector.

Founded by Com2uS, a game publisher in South Korea, the XPLA network stands out in the market for its focus on integrating blockchain into the video game industry .With the entry of Google Cloud as a validator, XPLA not only gains a strong ally, but also access to a secure, high-performance cloud infrastructure.

This could translate into a remarkable acceleration in Web3-based game development and innovation, as Jack Buser, general manager of Gaming Industry Solutions at Google Cloud, highlighted in a pressrelease.

Validators in a blockchain network have the crucial role of verifying and confirming transactions, thus maintaining the integrity and smooth operation of the network. In the particular case of XPLA, these volunteer validators do not receive rewards in the form of tokens. Instead, these rewards go into a community fund, a strategy that seeks to foster a more transparent and equitable ecosystem.

This plan is currently up for a vote, having so far received unanimous support. The initiative underscores an effort by XPLA and its partners to shape a validation system that benefits the community as a whole, rather than focusing on individual rewards.

The XPLA network is not new to the blockchain world

Initially established as C2X and built on Terra, it had to reinvent itself after the collapse of UST and LUNA tokens in May 2022. The network relaunched as XPLA in August 2022, showing good growth and attracting renowned validators such as metaverse investment firm Animoca Brands and mobile game developer Gumi.

In addition to Google Cloud, XPLA has notable games running on its network, such as “The Walking Dead: All-Stars,” “Summoner’s War: Chronicles” and “Ace Fishing: Crew.” These titles, based on existing intellectual properties, have been adapted for blockchain games under the “play-to-own” model, an emerging trend in the industry.

Google Cloud’s work with the cryptocurrency and blockchain world is not limited to XPLA. The company has played similar roles in other blockchain networks, including Solana, Tezos, Aptos, the Ethereum scaling network Polygon and the decentralized finance (DeFi) network Celo .

It also collaborated with Coinbase to accept cryptocurrency payments and launched its Web3 Startups Program in April, offering additional benefits for crypto companies in collaboration with networks such as Solana, Aptos, Near and Hedera.

Google Cloud’s entry into the XPLA network as a validator is a clear indication of how large corporations are beginning to see the potential of blockchain technology beyond its traditional use in cryptocurrencies.

With this alliance, it not only gains a top-tier technology ally, but also an opportunity to drive innovation and growth in the Web3 gaming space, offering players around the world more engaging and innovative experiences.

About Google Cloud

Google Cloud stimulates the digital transformation of organizations in a variety of industries by delivering robust, enterprise-wide solutions. These solutions are built on Google’s innovative technology, providing resources that enable developers to build more efficiently and ecologically. Companies in more than 200 countries and regions rely on Google Cloud to drive growth and address critical business challenges.

Focus on XPLA

XPLA, founded on Tendermint, is a first-layer blockchain dedicated to digital content. With the tagline ‘Explore and Play’, this platform integrates a variety of digital content, highlighted by its advanced blockchain gaming infrastructure and self-sustaining ecosystem. XPLA positions itself as a universal content powerhouse, offering an unrivaled creative experience, backed by its impressive gaming infrastructure.