There is a metaverse boom rippling through the cryptocurrency industry. Established projects have gained renewed popularity, while new projects have exploded onto the scene – including the voxel-based Sandbox (SAND) platform. Their recent alpha launch drew intense interest, as it coincided closely with Facebook’s ‘Meta’ rebrand and a renewed focus on metaverse technology. Sandbox combines some of the most popular aspects of virtual worlds and NFTs – allowing content creators to construct unique experiences, or items to bolster user worlds.
Despite their relative newcomer status, Sandbox already punches above their weight class – easily competing with the likes of Decentraland (MANA). This has allowed the start-up to attract significant real-world attention, drawing in several celebrities and brand name companies. Many of these high-profile users have purchased LAND, Sandbox’s virtual real estate. Owning LAND allows them to create unique user experiences, as well as serve as a centralized hub for average user’s properties.
What is Sandbox?
Sandbox is a virtual world crafted by users using voxel-based graphics. In the same sense as Minecraft or Roblox, voxels serve as three-dimensional pixels and allow users to create their own spaces in a friendly, intuitive manner. Like virtual Legos, voxels serve as a robust and memory-friendly way to empower user creativity. Combining this with the SAND cryptocurrency creates a profitable venture – while allowing content creators to monetize their work.
The Sandbox platform offers users the ability to generate NFTs for virtual items. Unlike a traditional game, where purchased content remains permanently locked with the buyer, users may trade this virtual property at will. This is a stark contrast from the centralized control schemes of traditional gaming – and may give Sandbox an edge moving forward.
Real-World Partnerships
Compared with previous boom cycles, legitimate celebrities seem ready and willing to embrace crypto endorsements in 2021. As mentioned before, Snoop Dogg’s virtual mansion drew high interest from those looking to buy land in the immediate vicinity. Snoop embraced cryptocurrencies – and NFT art – in a big way, making his involvement understandable.
Beyond celebrities, corporate brands have begun testing the waters with virtual branding, including Adidas. The designer clothing company purchased LAND in the Sandbox for reasons currently unknown. With more clear intent, The Walking Dead’s production company, Skybound Entertainment, also purchased LAND to create a virtual experience based on the popular franchise. Their space will ultimately feature a uniquely branded ‘virtual attraction’ for Sandbox users.
