Formula E, the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, is set to release its first official video game called Formula E: High Voltage. This racing management game will utilize blockchain technology and NFTs, making it an innovative addition to the gaming industry. The game, developed by Animoca Brands and Amber, will launch on October 19th.

As the first sport in the world to be certified as net zero carbon, Formula E prides itself on its commitment to combating climate change. The game aims to deliver environmentally sustainable entertainment to players around the globe by operating on the Flow blockchain. Flow is a “sustainability-focused blockchain and leader in energy efficiency.”

Formula E: High Voltage will utilize a “Proof-of-Stake consensus mechanism,” which is known for its efficiency. The game claims that minting an NFT on Flow requires less energy than posting on Instagram or conducting a Google search.

In terms of gameplay, new users will receive four NFTs, consisting of two cars and two drivers, to play for free. Additional NFTs will be available in four different rarities. Players will have the opportunity to collect, train, upgrade, and manage drivers and cars, ultimately building their own racing empire within the game.

Players can purchase NFT crates, with a solo crate containing one card priced between $20-30, and a team crate containing two cars and two drivers (with one guaranteed epic or legendary rarity NFT) priced between $119-149. To connect to the Flow blockchain, players will need a Blocto wallet.

Formula E: High Voltage is part of the REVV Motorsport ecosystem, which includes other licensed racing blockchain games such as MotoGP Ignition and MotoGP Guru, as well as REVV Racing and Torque Drift 2.

Formula E’s gaming director, Kieran Holmes-Darby, expressed excitement about the partnership with Animoca Brands and the launch of Formula E: High Voltage. He believes that gamers will have a dynamic new way to engage with Formula E, and that the gaming experience will increase their interest in the actual Championship.

Animoca Brands’ vice president of commercial strategy, Will Griffiths, emphasized the advantages of true digital ownership brought by NFT and blockchain technologies. He sees the launch of Formula E: High Voltage as a thrilling moment for fans and players alike, who will not only enjoy the excitement of the race but also experience the benefits of these innovative technologies.

While attending the Formula E London E-Prix last year, Holmes-Darby had hinted at the possibility of a Formula E game in the future. He stated that he would never rule it out and that conversations with game developers had already taken place. However, the choice of a blockchain NFT collection for the first official game came as a surprise.

Although some developers have faced criticism for working on blockchain games, Formula E: High Voltage joins other notable projects like Square Enix’s Symbiogenesis and Ubisoft’s Champions Tactics: Grimoria Chronicles in pushing the boundaries of the gaming industry.

Despite initial enthusiasm, the GDC State of the Game 2023 survey from January revealed that interest in blockchain technology among developers has slightly decreased, with 56 percent of respondents expressing opposition to its use. However, Formula E remains committed to incorporating innovative technology into its digital ventures.