Exploring NFT Game Websites: Structure and Impact
Intro
The landscape of gaming has been revolutionized with the introduction of non-fungible tokens (NFTs), reshaping how players interact with digital content and each other. NFT game websites have emerged as a novel bastion in this paradigm, not only enhancing the gaming experience but also integrating elements of ownership, investment, and economic opportunities that were unheard of just a few years ago. Understanding this dynamic ecosystem is crucial for anyone looking to navigate the intricate waters of the gaming market today.
As gaming enthusiasts and investors flock to these platforms, it becomes essential to analyze the underlying structures, economic implications, and the technological innovations that power NFT game websites. This article ventures into the inner workings of these sites, examining how they're diverging from traditional gaming models and what this means for the future of digital gaming.
With the incredible surge of interest in NFTs, comprehending market trends and the technology behind these platforms can unveil not just a new way to play games but also a new class of digital assets. Getting grips on these concepts will be vital for investors, developers, and anyone keen on capitalizing on the unique opportunities presented by this gaming evolution.
Market Trends and Analysis
Current Market Overview
The market for NFT game websites is burgeoning. As of late 2023, the combined revenue from these platforms reached a staggering billion-dollar mark, with projections suggesting continued growth. Major players in this space include Axie Infinity, The Sandbox, and Decentraland, each offering unique experiences that merge gaming with blockchain technology.
The allure of owning a digital asset, such as characters, skins, or land, instills a sense of real-world investment in players, making their gameplay experience valuable both emotionally and financially. The appetite for this new form of engagement suggests a shift in priorities within the gaming community, where ownership and economic involvement are prioritized over mere entertainment.
Key Influencers Affecting Prices
Several factors sway the prices of NFTs within gaming environments.
- Rarity: Just as in traditional collectibles, the scarcity of items plays a significant role in their value. Limited editions or one-of-a-kind assets often command higher prices.
- Market Demand: Seasons of high player engagement can create spikes in market activity, where prices can soar due to heightened demand for specific items or characters.
- Influencer Engagement: Like it or lump it, influencers shape trends. When notable personalities showcase certain games or NFTs, often prices take off.
- Game Changes: Updates or patches to games that enhance features or gameplay can alter the perceived value of in-game assets.
This volatile environment requires players and investors alike to stay attuned to both market fluctuations and gaming updates for making informed decisions.
Technology and Innovation
Breakthroughs in Blockchain Technology
The backbone of NFT games lies in blockchain technology, which provides transparency and security to transactions. Ethereum remains the dominant blockchain for games due to its smart contract functionality, enabling developers to create unique gaming experiences and establish ownership through NFTs. Recently however, Layer-2 solutions have emerged, providing quicker transactions at lower costs, enhancing user experience considerably.
- Polygon is one such solution that has gained traction, allowing developers to deliver seamless gaming experiences without the high gas fees that Ethereum transactions sometimes carry.
These advancements provide both developers and gamers the tools to push the boundaries of what's possible within digital gaming environments.
The Role of Smart Contracts
Smart contracts are the unsung heroes in the NFT landscape. They automate transactions, ensuring that the ownership transfer process is not only smooth but also secure. Whenever an NFT is sold or traded, the smart contract governs the rules and protocols, making sure the rightful owner collects their payment without intermediaries. This decentralization not only saves time but also builds trust among players and investors.
"Smart contracts ensure that agreements are honored. They cut out the middleman, making transactions more efficient than ever."
To summarize, as the gaming industry continues its transformation, understanding the interplay between market trends and technological advancements will be key. For investors, developers, and players alike, navigating the intricate web of NFT game websites promises challenges but also unprecedented opportunities.
Understanding NFT Game Websites
The emergence of NFT game websites marks a pivotal moment in the intersection of gaming and digital assets. As these platforms gain traction, comprehending their structure and functionalities becomes essential—not just for players but for everyone involved in the gaming ecosystem, including investors, developers, and market analysts. Understanding the dynamics of NFT game websites goes beyond just gameplay; it delves into how non-fungible tokens alter traditional gaming economics, player interactions, and ownership rights.
Defining NFT and its Role in Gaming
NFTs, or non-fungible tokens, represent a new breed of digital assets that are unique and irreplaceable. These tokens are recorded on a blockchain, ensuring their authenticity and ownership. In gaming, NFTs serve various roles, transforming how players interact with in-game assets. For instance, a player can own a sword or character skin as a NFT, making it possible to trade, sell, or transfer it outside the game environment. This is different from traditional games where assets are typically bound to the game itself and cannot be monetized. The ability to own and trade these digital assets shifts the ownership paradigm, offering players a chance to turn a hobby into a potential income stream.
Market Trends and Growth
The NFT gaming market has exploded in recent years, with sales reaching unprecedented heights. According to reports, NFT gaming transactions saw a staggering increase, with platforms like Axie Infinity and The Sandbox leading the charge. This rising interest is not merely a fad; it's a fundamental shift in how digital goods are conceptualized and valued. As mainstream audiences become more familiar with blockchain technology, we're witnessing new waves of investment pouring into NFT games. Investors are increasingly keen on backing projects that promise sustainable and innovative uses of NFTs. Understanding these growth trends helps clarify which markets might yield profitable returns and which ones are merely hype.
User Demographics and Engagement
Diving into user demographics offers insight into who participates in NFT games. Research indicates a diverse player base, ranging from younger generations who are already familiar with digital currencies, to older individuals intrigued by the potential investment opportunities that NFTs present. Engagement levels vary, with some players fully immersed in competitive environments, while others view these games as casual avenues for exploration and profit. This blend of motivations—from gamers seeking enjoyment to investors looking for the next big opportunity—shapes how NFT platforms market themselves and develop their offerings.
"Understanding your user base is a key component of strategy in the NFT gaming sphere. Without this knowledge, platforms risk alienating potential players and investors."
The interplay between gaming and investment will only intensify, making the understanding of NFT game websites ever more critical for anyone looking to navigate this modern gaming frontier.
Key Components of NFT Game Websites
In the ever-evolving landscape of NFT gaming, the website serving as its cornerstone plays a critical role. It’s the first point of contact for players and investors alike, setting the tone and expectations of the gaming experience. The crux lies in three primary components: user interface design, backend infrastructure, and the integration of blockchain technology. Each aspect weaves together to create a seamless experience that can either enthrall users or drive them away. Understanding these elements helps developers and investors make informed decisions within this realm.
User Interface Design
User interface design is without a doubt the face of any NFT game website. It’s more than just aesthetics; it influences how users interact with the platform. An intuitive interface allows players to navigate through various options effortlessly, creating an experience that feels organic rather than cumbersome.
For instance, consider how a game like Axie Infinity implements vibrant visuals and easy access to information about characters and transactions. A clunky interface can lead to frustration, causing users to abandon a game before they even experience its core features.
When designing an interface, key elements to focus on include:
- Accessibility: Websites should consider users with different abilities. Text should be readable, and navigation should be straightforward.
- Responsive Design: Players switch between devices, so having a layout that adapts is essential.
- Visual Appeal: Engaging graphics catch a user's eye. Using colors and imagery that resonate with the gaming theme is critical.
In short, a well-crafted user interface cultivates higher engagement rates, ultimately driving the success of NFT games.
Backend Infrastructure
Behind every sleek website is a robust backend infrastructure. This component is often overlooked, yet it is crucial for the operational power of NFT gaming platforms. A sturdy backend ensures that data can be processed without hiccups, supporting real-time transactions and updates. Imagine the chaos if a player wanted to make a critical move but faced lag—this would mar the gaming experience, detracting from a fluid interaction.
The backend must prioritize:
- Scalability: As popularity grows, the website should handle a surge in users. The infrastructure must be prepared for massive spikes in player activity.
- Database Management: Efficient data storage and retrieval affect gameplay speed and user experience.
- Security Measures: Given the financial implications of NFT transactions, security must be paramount. Implementing encryption and regular security audits can protect against breaches.
Ultimately, a sound backend establishes trust, enabling a smooth and secure gaming experience.
Integration of Blockchain Technology
The backbone of NFT game websites lies in blockchain technology. This decentralized ledger system guarantees transparency and integrity in transactions, allowing players to retain ownership of their digital assets.
Integrating blockchain has several implications:
- Ownership Verification: Players can verify ownership of NFTs, which is crucial within the gaming universe. This technology ensures that each asset has a unique identifier.
- Transaction Transparency: Each transaction is recorded on the blockchain, providing a clear trail. This aspect instills confidence in players, knowing that their assets are securely managed.
- Smart Contracts: These self-executing contracts on the blockchain facilitate automatic transactions, further streamlining the gaming experience.
"The user experience, from the interface to the backend, defines how players connect with NFT games. Investing in these components is more than just technical advancement; it's about fostering a community of trust and engagement."
By focusing on these key components, developers can create NFT game websites that appeal to both seasoned gamers and newcomers, ultimately crafting a platform that stands out in a crowded marketplace.
Economic Models in NFT Gaming
Understanding the economic models in NFT gaming is crucial for grasping the broader implications of this intersection between gaming and blockchain technology. NFTs have brought forth new ways for players to engage with games and for developers to monetize their creations, leading to a versatile economic landscape where traditional paradigms are thrown out the window. By examining the mechanics at play, one gains valuable insights into how NFT games are structured and how they can potentially evolve.
Play-to-Earn Mechanics
Play-to-earn mechanics form the backbone of many NFT games, creating a system where players are rewarded for their time and effort. In contrast to traditional gaming, where players invest time but often aren't compensated, these models encourage participation. For example, titles like Axie Infinity leverage this model, allowing players to earn tokens through gameplay and subsequent trading.
- User Incentives:
- Economic Sustainability:
- Players gain tangible assets, which can translate into real-world value.
- Gamers can accumulate wealth by skillfully engaging in game mechanics.
- Relying solely on initial investments can lead to bubble-like situations. Hence, incorporating a sustainability model is paramount.
Integrating play-to-earn models isn’t without its challenges; ensuring that the economy remains balanced while providing meaningful rewards is a complex undertaking. Developers must constantly refine the game’s economic systems to avoid pitfalls like inflation or an over-saturation of assets.
Marketplaces for Trading
The rise of NFT gaming has ushered in a new wave of digital marketplaces that facilitate the trade of in-game assets. Marketplaces like OpenSea or Rarible have become essential platforms for players looking to buy, sell, or trade NFTs. The process goes beyond mere transactions; it represents a marketplace vibrant with its own set of cultural and financial dynamics.
- Decentralization:
- Liquidity:
- Unlike traditional gaming where assets are locked within the game, NFTs allow for ownership that extends beyond a single platform.
- Players are now accustomed to market fluctuations, and the trading of assets can closely mirror stock trading, reflecting both opportunity and risk.
In these marketplaces, players often engage in a dance of speculation, looking to ascertain the true value of items based on rarity, demand, and utility within games. This volatility can create opportunities, but also exposes traders to risks that casual gamers might not be prepared for.
Valuation of In-Game Assets
Valuation in NFT games is a tricky beast, often determined by a mix of rarity, desired utility, and potential for future earnings. The economic worth of an in-game asset can vary wildly based on player perceptions and market demand, making it essential for investors and players alike to stay informed.
- Rarity:
- Utility:
- Historical Significance:
- Assets that are hard to come by often command higher prices. Unique skins or characters, for instance, can fetch considerable sums.
- Items usable in gameplay can have higher value; for example, a powerful sword in a game will generally be worth more than a purely aesthetic item.
- As some assets might gain cultural significance or become part of a game's lore, their value can appreciate dramatically with time.
"In-game items are not just pixels; they are digital commodities that bind players to the game’s spirit and economy."
Evaluating in-game assets requires players to tap into community sentiments, market trends, and economic theories, making this an intricate ballet of analytics and intuition. Consequently, those adept at navigating this landscape often find themselves more successful in gaming and trading circles.
User Experience in NFT Games
User experience (UX) is the bedrock upon which the success of NFT game websites rests. In a competitive landscape teeming with options, engaging design and seamless user interaction can be the difference between a user sticking around or wandering off to greener pastures. Good UX embodies everything from intuitive navigation to responsive interfaces that cater to both seasoned gamers and newcomers alike. Fostering a positive experience not only enhances player satisfaction but can also directly bolster retention rates, thereby laying the groundwork for a vibrant gaming community.
Onboarding New Users
The onboarding process is a critical first step in cultivating a lasting relationship between the user and the NFT game. When properly executed, it guides new players through the often intricate world of NFTs and in-game economies. A well-structured onboarding experience helps demystify the sometimes complex terminologies associated with blockchain and non-fungible tokens. Utilizing tutorials, tooltips, and guided walkthroughs, games can ease users into their ecosystems, ensuring they understand how to navigate everything from utilizing wallets to making transactions.
Consider a popular platform like Axie Infinity; they’ve gained traction partly because of their robust onboarding mechanisms. Players are not only introduced to gameplay but also to strategies that facilitate their success while earning cryptocurrency at the same time. This forms a compelling invitation, encouraging both novice and experienced players to immerse themselves without feeling overwhelmed.
Gamification Elements
Gamification refers to the usage of game design elements in non-game contexts in order to enhance user engagement. Integrating such elements into NFT games serves multiple purposes. They can motivate players to participate more actively, create a sense of achievement, and encourage communal interaction—turning mere gameplay into an engaging narrative.
Some common gamification features include:
- Progress Tracking: Players appreciate seeing how far they’ve come; this might mean leveling up or earning new badges.
- Leaderboards: Competitive elements can invigorate participation and retention by introducing a healthy rivalry.
- Quests: Completing specific tasks for rewards can create excitement and drive user engagement.
The significance of these features can’t be overstated. They serve to heighten the overall enjoyment of the game while enriching the player’s journey with layers of involvement that foster loyalty and community. Players who feel a sense of achievement or recognition are more likely to continue engaging with the platform, creating a cycle of investment.
Community Building
Community is the beating heart of any successful NFT game. A robust community fosters an environment where players can share tips, strategies, and trade assets. Through forums, Discord channels, and social media platforms, developers can cultivate discussions that not only preemptively address issues but also actively engage the player base.
- Peer Support: New users often lean on experienced players for guidance, creating a supportive community that enhances retention.
- Events: Organizing in-game events can help players feel like they're part of something bigger. Themed tournaments or charity events, for instance, can rally users together.
- Feedback Loops: Soliciting community feedback not only empowers players but can also guide developers in refining features based on real-world usage.
In essence, an engaged community can bolster the longevity of the NFT game, driving participation and inviting new users to join the fold. When players feel that they are a part of a community rather than just a transaction, they are far more likely to stick around and invest both time and resources into the platform.
Challenges Facing NFT Game Websites
The rise of NFT game websites has not been all sunshine and roses. Various challenges are cropping up that can significantly hinder their growth and acceptance. It’s vital to peel back the layers and understand these issues, as they not only impact developers and investors but also the overall user experience. Addressing these challenges is key to fostering a sustainable ecosystem where NFT games can thrive.
Scalability Issues
Scalability remains a hot topic when it comes to NFT games. When a game suddenly explodes in popularity, the underlying blockchain technology must handle increased transactions without collapsing under pressure. If the infrastructure isn’t robust, players may face slow loading times or even crashes—factors that can drive them straight into the arms of competitors.
For instance, during peak moments in games like Axie Infinity, players have complained about painful latency issues and transaction failures. These experiences make it clear that as more users join the fray, the strain on resources intensifies. Developers are now tasked with finding solutions like layer-2 scaling or utilizing side chains, allowing them to alleviate some of this burden without sacrificing the decentralization aspect of blockchain.
"In the gaming world, a smooth and seamless experience is critical. Otherwise, users won’t stick around."
Regulatory Considerations
NFT gaming isn’t untouchable by the long arm of regulatory frameworks. As governments around the globe start throwing down the gauntlet on cryptocurrencies and digital assets, NFT game websites must navigate a minefield of evolving laws and regulations. Each country has its own stance on NFTs, hindering international operations and complicating the situation for developers.
Moreover, the classification of NFTs—whether they are considered securities, commodities, or something else entirely—can dictate what is permissible within these platforms. Developers need to keep their ear to the ground to understand how regulations may change and be prepared to pivot their strategies accordingly. Not doing so could result in hefty penalties or even shutdowns of platforms.
Environmental Impact of Blockchain
The environmental concerns surrounding blockchain technology can’t be overlooked. Specifically, the energy consumption associated with proof-of-work mechanisms prompts valid questions. Popular platforms that run on Ethereum, for instance, have come under fire for their carbon footprint.
In response, some NFT gaming platforms are exploring more eco-friendly alternatives, such as proof-of-stake or layer-2 solutions that drastically reduce energy consumption. A shift toward greener practices can not only help appease critics but also attract environmentally-conscious gamers who are wary of participating in platforms perceived as harmful to the planet.
Exploring Notable NFT Game Platforms
The realm of NFT gaming is not just a fleeting trend; it represents a significant evolution in how players interact with digital assets. By examining notable NFT game platforms, we can gain deeper insights into their mechanics, user engagement strategies, and economic models. Platforms such as Axie Infinity, Decentraland, and The Sandbox are pivotal in understanding the mechanics of this digital playground, as they embody various approaches to integrating NFTs into gaming experiences.
Exploring these platforms allows investors and developers to identify patterns, analyze user behaviors, and evaluate the sustainability of NFT economic models. Each platform brings something unique to the table, from community engagement to marketplace dynamics. Let's dive into these notable platforms to understand their impact in the NFT ecosystem.
Axie Infinity
Axie Infinity has carved a niche for itself in the NFT gaming world, primarily through its play-to-earn model. Players breed, battle, and trade creatures known as Axies, which are unique digital assets represented as NFTs on the Ethereum blockchain. The allure of Axie Infinity lies in its ability to provide tangible rewards for gameplay.
Key elements of Axie Infinity:
- Play-to-Earn Mechanics: Unlike traditional gaming, Axie Infinity allows players to earn crypto rewards that can be converted into real-world money. This economic incentive has attracted a diverse user base, including many from developing nations seeking additional income.
- Community and Ecosystem: The platform boasts an active community, which is critical for user retention and engagement. Players often collaborate and share strategies on forums and social media platforms, driving the game’s popularity and longevity.
- Marketplace Activity: Axies can be bought, sold, or traded on the in-game marketplace, allowing players to capitalize on their time and investment in the game. This creates a dynamic economy within the game that mirrors real-world markets.
Decentraland
Decentraland stands out as a decentralized virtual reality world where users can create, experience, and monetize content and applications. It is built on the Ethereum blockchain and enables users to purchase plots of land, represented by NFTs, and build on these parcels as they desire.
Notable features of Decentraland include:
- Ownership and Creativity: Users can buy land and build anything from simple avatars to elaborate 3D environments, giving them complete creative control. This ownership aspect fosters a sense of autonomy and personalization that many users find appealing.
- Virtual Economy: The in-game currency, MANA, can be used to buy land and other digital goods. Players can earn money by hosting events, selling virtual goods, or leasing land to others. This has created a thriving virtual economy where users can find lucrative opportunities.
- Social Interaction: Decentraland is inherently social. Users can attend events, play games, or explore new experiences, making collaboration and interaction central components of the platform.
The Sandbox
The Sandbox combines elements of game creation with NFT integration, allowing users to create their own games and experiences within its platform. This facilitates a unique blend of user-generated content and ownership of digital assets.
Essential aspects of The Sandbox are:
- Game Maker Tool: The Sandbox provides intuitive tools for players to design their games or experiences without needing extensive programming knowledge. This democratizes game creation and opens the platform to a broader audience.
- Asset Creation: Users can create, own, and monetize their assets as NFTs within the game. This level of ownership attracts creators who wish to capitalize on their skills and artistic outputs.
- Partnerships and Integrations: The Sandbox has aligned itself with notable brands and franchises, which not only increases its visibility but also allows integration of popular IPs into its ecosystem, attracting fans and players alike.
Each of these platforms exemplifies how NFT game websites can leverage the unique features of blockchain technology to create engaging and profitable gaming experiences.
In summary, analyzing these notable NFT game platforms illustrates the innovative approaches they take to combine gaming, economic participation, and community engagement. Investors and developers stand to benefit from understanding these dynamics as they navigate the evolving NFT landscape.
The Future of NFT Gaming
The future of NFT gaming holds significant relevance as it symbolizes the convergence of technology, art, and play. This emerging sector is not just about games; it's about creating sustainable, innovative economies that engage players on multiple levels. The possibilities brought forth by non-fungible tokens challenge traditional notions of value, ownership, and interactivity in gaming. With gamers increasingly craving unique and personalized experiences, understanding the trajectory of NFT gaming is critical for investors, developers, and analysts alike.
Predictions for Market Evolution
The NFT gaming market is expected to evolve rapidly as both technology and player expectations shift. One compelling prediction is that the sector will witness increased investment from major gaming entities. This trend could lead to the development of AAA games that incorporate NFT elements, allowing players to truly own their in-game items. This level of ownership will be a game changer, potentially leading to more engaged and loyal gaming communities.
- Shift toward Multi-Platform Releases: We might see a trend toward cross-platform capabilities, enabling players from different systems to interact seamlessly.
- Regulatory Changes: With increasing scrutiny on NFTs, regulatory developments could pave the way for a more secure market, influencing player confidence.
- Enhanced Monetization Strategies: Developers will likely experiment with various revenue models, balancing gameplay enjoyment with profitability.
Innovative Technologies on the Horizon
NFT gaming’s future will also hinge on technological innovations. Mainstream adoption of blockchain technology is set to revolutionize gaming infrastructure. As processing speeds increase and blockchain networks become more efficient, the following advancements could emerge:
- Layer 2 Solutions: These will allow quicker transaction processing, solving some current scaling issues that limit user experiences.
- Augmented and Virtual Reality: Integrating AR and VR with NFTs can transform how players interact with their digital assets, making them truly immersive and engaging.
- Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs): As players band together, DAOs could enable collective decision-making, granting them a stake in the development and growth of games.
Potential for Cross-Platform Play
Cross-platform play could very well redefine the social aspect of gaming. When players from various platforms can interact, this creates a more inclusive community. Here are a few considerations:
- Increased Player Base: Developers can tap into larger audiences, improving game viability and longevity.
- Asset Trading Across Platforms: With NFT assets, players can trade their items without limitation to the specific ecosystem they come from, enhancing their value further.
- Community Building: Fostering engagement across platforms helps build connections among players, leading to more vibrant online communities.
As NFT gaming transitions into a multi-platform reality, both engagement and economic possibilities expand significantly, positively affecting the gaming landscape.
Navigating the future of NFT gaming requires awareness of these trends. Stakeholders who keep their fingers on the pulse of developments will be better positioned to adapt to changing market dynamics and player preferences.
Final Thoughts on NFT Game Websites
The emergence of NFT game websites has revolutionized the intersection of gaming and asset ownership. As we draw the curtain on our analysis, it's clear that these platforms represent more than just a trend; they are reshaping the rules of engagement in digital entertainment. The core elements involve not only the integration of blockchain technology but also an evolving understanding of the economic futures unique to NFTs. From user experience to economic structures, the implications of this phenomenon are broad and impactful.
Summarizing the Findings
In summarizing the findings from our discussion, we can identify several key points:
- Integration of NFTs: Players are now able to own unique digital assets that have tangible value outside the game environment. This has fundamentally changed the motivation behind gameplay.
- Economic Models: Different economic frameworks, especially play-to-earn models, have introduced avenues for income that are not just for developers, but also for players, attracting a diverse user base.
- Challenges Ahead: Despite their growth, these websites face significant hurdles regarding scalability, regulatory concerns, and environmental implications. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for their long-term sustainability.
- User Engagement: The importance of a strong community and the onboarding experience is paramount too—platforms that succeed in creating engaging environments are likely to thrive.
To encapsulate, NFT game websites have transformed from a mere concept to complex ecosystems capable of influencing the larger gaming landscape. This change is not merely technological, but also cultural, as it speaks to new forms of community, value, and interaction online.
Implications for the Gaming Industry
The influence of NFT game websites extends well beyond their immediate functions. The gaming industry is experiencing a paradigm shift in several fundamental ways:
- Value Creation: Games are evolving into decentralized economies where players can monetize their gameplay, creating a new layer of interaction and investment.
- Regulatory Landscape: As NFT gaming continues to grow, it prompts discussions about rights and ownership, driving conversations related to intellectual property and digital assets across various jurisdictions.
- Future Innovations: The incorporation of NFTs could inspire new genres of gameplay and storytelling, potentially appealing to both traditional gamers and those interested in investment.
- Cross-Industry Opportunities: Businesses in and outside gaming are beginning to recognize the potential for advertising and partnerships, paving the way for innovative collaborations.
In essence, as NFT game websites continue to evolve, they will undoubtedly shape the future of digital entertainment, establishing new norms and expectations for how players interact and invest in their gaming experiences. For investors, developers, and gamers alike, staying attuned to these changes is crucial to navigating this vibrant new landscape.
