The Sandbox (2018) is based on the Ethereum Blockchain and is a decentralized NFT gaming Metaverse. The Sandbox makes it possible for non-tech savvy users to create, sell, use, and monetize their virtual reality NFTs. Pixowl, the creators enjoyed the success of The Sandbox (2011), and The Sandbox Evolution (2016), respectively. The creators in 2018 thought about introducing this successful User Generated Content gaming IP and the extensive network of creators in the Blockchain ecosystem. The objective was to give the creators the actual ownership of the creations in the form of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and to reward them for participating in the ecosystem.
What is the Sandbox Metaverse?
The Sandbox Metaverse comprises three integrated products that give a comprehensive gaming experience for the User Generated Content (UGC) Production. The three integrated products are.
- VoxEdit
It enables the user to create voxel models. The voxels are the building blocks in The Sandbox game, which are 3D pixels. It is an NFT creation package for Mac or PC that lets users create and animate any 3D objects like human beings, vehicles, animals, etc.
- Marketplace
The Marketplace in The Sandbox lets users upload, publish and sell their voxel model creation made with VoxEdit. First, the users upload their creations into an IPFS network that gives decentralized storage and helps them register onto the Blockchain to prove their ownership. Then, post this; the creations turn into ASSETS that the user can sell by making a sale offer in the Marketplace, through which the prospective buyers can also make the purchase.
- Game Maker
With the help of Game Maker, anyone can create their own 3D games for free. Even those creators who do not have any coding experience can create stunning 3D games by themselves within minutes due to the user-friendly visual scripting tools.
Who created the Sandbox?
The Sandbox was created by a team of developers led by Arthur Madrid and Sebastien Borget in 2012. The team initially started developing mobile games but eventually pivoted to Blockchain-based gaming in 2018. The idea behind the Sandbox was to create a platform that would allow users to create, share, and monetize their own games and experiences. The team believed that Blockchain technology could revolutionize the gaming industry by creating a decentralized platform that would give power back to the users.
Sebastien Borget serves as the co-founder and COO of the platform. Borget explained that the Sandbox is not just a game, but a platform that allows users to become creators and owners of their own virtual worlds. Borget’s vision for the Sandbox is to create a Metaverse that would be owned and governed by its users, rather than a single company or entity.
Is the Sandbox Truly Decentralized?
While the Sandbox is a decentralized platform, it is important to note that the team behind it owns a significant portion of the platform’s utility token, SAND. The token is used to buy and sell virtual land and assets within the platform, and is an essential part of the Sandbox ecosystem.
However, the team’s ownership of SAND is not just for their own benefit. In fact, the team has been using their SAND holdings to fund the development of the platform and reward creators for their contributions. In a recent tweet, Sebastien Borget revealed that the Sandbox team will give out over $1 million in rewards to creators, showing their commitment to building a platform that benefits everyone involved.
Unique Features of the Sandbox Metaverse
- The Sandbox Metaverse is unique in its approach to creating a decentralized platform. Unlike other virtual worlds, the Sandbox Metaverse is built on the Ethereum Blockchain, which ensures transparency and immutability. This means that every asset created within the Sandbox Metaverse is unique, and ownership can be verified on the Blockchain.
- This Metaverse platform allows users to create their own content using VoxEdit, a powerful 3D modeling tool. This tool allows users to create custom assets, such as characters, buildings, and landscapes, which can be used within the Sandbox Metaverse. The Sandbox Metaverse also has a marketplace where users can buy and sell assets, providing a unique way for creators to monetize their work.
- It also has a social aspect that allows users to interact with each other in a virtual world. Users can attend events, play games, and explore together, creating a sense of community within the Metaverse. The Sandbox Metaverse also allows for cross-platform play, meaning that users can access the world from different devices.
- The Sandbox Metaverse has a gaming aspect, with a range of games available to play. These games are designed by both the Sandbox team and community members, creating a diverse range of experiences for users. The Sandbox Metaverse also has a game creation tool, allowing users to create their own games within the virtual world.
- The platform has a unique approach to land ownership. Users can purchase virtual land within the Metaverse, which can then be used to build structures and create experiences. This provides a unique opportunity for users to own a piece of the virtual world and shape it in their image.
Identifying the Types of Tokens in the Sandbox Metaverse
In the Sandbox ecosystem, there are typically four types of users: players, creators, curators, and landowners. And there are six types of tokens in The Sandbox Metaverse. But in order to create an enclosed economy amongst the users, they usually rely on four user-specific tokens: SAND, ASSETS, LAND, and GAME. Rest two tokens, GEM and CATALYSTs, are saved for constructing assets in VoxEdit.
- SAND Token
SAND Token is a utility token used within The Sandbox for all the interactions and transactions using the ERC-20 standard. One can view SAND as the native currency or Sandbox coin in The Sandbox Metaverse. The user can use the SAND token for Governance, Staking, Foundation, Accessing the platform, and the Free capture model in the Metaverse.
- ASSETS Token
ASSETS token depicts the virtual assets in The Sandbox Metaverse. The Users can trade these tokens in the Marketplace or use them on land in order to create any additional utility. Through VoxEdit, the users can create numerous assets to monetize on the platform. Also, all the users have the ownership rights to the Assets they have created, which they trade in the game.
- LAND Token
A LAND Token is a vital part of The Sandbox Metaverse. The LAND Token is also called the virtual real estate investment in The Sandbox ecosystem. The users can buy lands and then integrate different pieces of adjoining lands to make estates and districts in the Metaverse.
- GAME Token
The GAME token has to be always together with the LAND Token for the users to be active in The Sandbox. A GAME token gives an interactive experience to the users, which is developed by integrating the game programming and assets.
- GEMS Token
GEMS are utility tokens that boost the attribute value of the Assets in The Sandbox ecosystem. It is also burnt-on-usage tokens, wherein one GEM can give 25 attribute points to an asset, which becomes quite helpful and valuable in the game.
- CATALYST Token
CATALYST is yet another burnt-on-usage token that defines the user’s ASSET’s tier and scarcity displayed in The Sandbox Metaverse. The user can add an empty socket to their asset that they can load with GEM attributes with the help of the CATALYST Token.
What is SAND used for?
SAND is the utility token in The Sandbox Metaverse Blockchain that can be utilized to make ASSETS tokens, buy and sell ASSETS in the Marketplace, partake in trades concerning LAND, and interact with user-generated experiences. For instance, in order to purchase or sell LAND from the public sales in the game, the user must have the SAND token in their Metaverse wallet. In addition, the GAME assets, GEMS, and CATALYSTS are also purchased using the SAND Token from the Marketplace.
The SAND token is used for the below-mentioned purposes.
- For Accessing the Platform
Players or Users can use the SAND tokens to play games, buy equipment and customize their Avatar. It is also used to purchase ASSETS, LAND, and stake the token for other benefits.
- Staking
With the help of SAND, the users can stake and get passive income on LANDS; furthermore, the users can get more SAND by staking it. Also, SAND is the only way users can get the GEMS and CATALYSTs required to create assets.
- Governance
The SAND token users are allowed to vote on the platform’s governance via the Decentralized Automated Organization (DAO). In addition, the users or players having the SAND token can also vote for themselves or transfer the privilege of voting to the other users.
- Foundation
The Sandbox Foundation’s mission is to boost the platform’s ecosystem by giving grants that would facilitate the creation of high-quality games and content. As the value of the games supported by the Foundation increases, it also increases the overall value of the Metaverse, thereby creating a circle that helps in funding more deserving games.
- Free Capture Model
5% of the total transaction volumes of the SAND token are distributed. The 5% is equally distributed amongst the Foundation and the staking pool in rewards to the token holders.
What is Sandbox Land, and How to Buy Land in Sandbox?
LAND is a digital real estate portion of the Sandbox ecosystem. The user can buy a LAND by learning about the Sandbox Metaverse’s entire landscape. If you are still unable to figure out Sandbox or anything related to Metaverse, it is best to opt for a Metaverse course.
Regular and premium LAND are the two types of LAND available to the users. LAND is an essential component that the user will need in order to expand their games and worlds, and users cannot play this game without a token. In addition, the player must have Ethereum in their wallet to help cover the fees needed at the time of the purchase. Finally, as mentioned earlier, SAND is the native currency used in the ecosystem and is also used to pay for buying the LAND tokens. Once the players have all these, they must click on the available LAND they desire on the website map.
The website will mark the Regular land in gray if the land is available and highlight the piece of land in yellow if the available land is a premium. Once the user clicks on the “Buy” button, the land has been reserved for the user. Subsequently, the appropriate wallet will open and show the user the gas fees and the SAND price. The LAND will be highlighted in purple, signifying that the LAND is booked. The transaction will be called complete only when the user’s wallet confirms it. The amount chosen for gas and any congestion in the Blockchain decides the completion time of the transaction. Once the transaction is fully completed, the LAND will turn red, indicating that the user now owns the LAND. Users should ensure that the transaction is completed within two hours, or else the LAND will be available to everyone again.
Another way of purchasing the LAND is by using OpenSea. OpenSea is a secondary marketplace where users can buy several NFTs. In order to buy LAND from the OpenSea platform, the user should first create an account on it. Then, the users can get LAND with the help of SAND or ETH as per the seller’s preference.
The main objective of LAND is to allow the game developers and designers to post their experiences on them. These posts can be appreciated by fellow gamers and can help in monetization as well.
How to Get an NFT in the Sandbox?
The Sandbox Metaverse has become a popular destination for those looking to explore a virtual world where they can create, own, and monetize their creations. One of the ways to get involved in The Sandbox is by acquiring an NFT (non-fungible token) – a unique digital asset that represents ownership of virtual land, items, and experiences within the Metaverse. If you are interested in getting an NFT in The Sandbox Metaverse, here is a step-by-step guide to help you out:
Step 1: Get a Wallet
The first step to getting an NFT in The Sandbox Metaverse is to get a wallet that supports Ethereum and NFTs. Some of the popular wallets are Metamask, MyEtherWallet, and Trust Wallet. You can choose any wallet that you are comfortable with and ensure that you keep the private keys secure.
Step 2: Get Some Ethereum
The next step is to get some Ethereum, which is the cryptocurrency used in The Sandbox Metaverse. You can buy Ethereum from any of the popular exchanges such as Binance, Coinbase, or Kraken. Once you have purchased Ethereum, transfer it to your wallet.
Step 3: Get Some SAND Tokens
SAND tokens are the native tokens of The Sandbox Metaverse, and they are used for buying and selling assets within the ecosystem. You can buy SAND tokens from any of the popular exchanges such as Binance, Huobi, or KuCoin. Once you have purchased SAND tokens, transfer them to your wallet.
Step 4: Visit The Sandbox Marketplace
The Sandbox Marketplace is the primary place where you can buy, sell, and trade NFTs and other digital assets. You can access the marketplace through The Sandbox Metaverse app or the web version. Once you are on the marketplace, you can browse through the various NFTs available and choose the one that you want to buy.
Step 5: Buy the NFT
Once you have found the NFT that you want to buy, you can click on the “Buy” button and follow the instructions to complete the transaction. Make sure that you have enough Ethereum and SAND tokens in your wallet to complete the transaction. Once the transaction is complete, the NFT will be transferred to your wallet, and you will become the owner of the asset.
How to Create an Avatar in the Sandbox Metaverse?
To get started with the Sandbox, you need to have a Sandbox account. If you don’t have one, you can create an account on the Sandbox website by clicking on the “Sign up” button on the top right corner of the website. Once you have created an account, you will be asked to create an avatar.
Creating an avatar in the Sandbox is a simple process. The platform provides an intuitive avatar creation system that allows players to customize their avatar’s appearance, clothing, and accessories. The avatar creation process is divided into five categories: Head, Eyes, Mouth, Body, and Accessories. You can select each category and choose the options that best represent you or the character you want to create.
To create an avatar in the Sandbox, you will need to have SAND tokens. As mentioned earlier, SAND is the utility token of the Sandbox Metaverse. It is used to purchase lands and other digital assets within the Sandbox world. You can buy SAND tokens on various cryptocurrency exchanges, such as Binance, OKEx, and KuCoin.
Once you have purchased SAND tokens, you can use them to purchase lands in The Sandbox world. Each land is represented by an NFT on the Ethereum Blockchain. You can purchase lands on various marketplaces, such as OpenSea, Rarible, and Binance NFT Marketplace.
To use your avatar in the Sandbox, you will need to connect your wallet to the game. The platform supports various wallets, such as MetaMask, WalletConnect, and Coinbase Wallet. Once you have connected your wallet, you can use your avatar to explore the Sandbox world, play games, and interact with other players.
The Sandbox Metaverse: A Celebrity Playground
The Sandbox Metaverse has quickly become a hub for celebrities and their fans, providing a unique space for virtual exploration, socialization, and even investment. The platform’s combination of Blockchain technology, gaming, and virtual reality has attracted a diverse array of personalities and brands, making it an exciting and dynamic space for anyone looking to escape the mundane and embrace the virtual.
Justin Timberlake: Singer, Actor, and Investor
Justin Timberlake is not only a prolific singer and actor but also a smart investor. Timberlake’s venture capital firm, which he co-founded with his longtime manager, has invested in the Sandbox Metaverse, helping to fuel its growth and development.
The platform allows its users to own virtual land, which can be used to create games, host events, or simply show off their unique digital creations. Timberlake has invested in this virtual real estate and owns several parcels within the platform.
Katy Perry: Pop Icon and Virtual Landowner
Katy Perry, one of the best-selling music artists of all time, has also joined the Sandbox Metaverse. She has invested in virtual land on the platform. Perry’s land in Sandbox includes an interactive garden, an art gallery, and a concert hall where she can perform for her virtual fans. The platform has given Perry the ability to create a space that is uniquely her own, allowing her to connect with her fans in a new and exciting way.
Grimes: Musician and NFT Creator
Grimes, a musician and artist known for her avant-garde approach to music, has also joined Sandbox. Grimes has created her own NFT collection, which is available on the Sandbox Marketplace. The collection includes digital art, music, and other unique creations that can be bought and sold using SAND tokens.
In addition to her NFT collection, Grimes has participated in the Sandbox Game Jam, a competition that challenges game developers to create innovative games within the Metaverse. Winners of the competition receive SAND tokens, which can be used within the platform or traded on cryptocurrency exchanges.
Paris Hilton: Entrepreneur and Virtual Land Baroness
Paris Hilton, a socialite and entrepreneur, has invested in the Sandbox and owns multiple virtual lands within the platform. Her virtual lands are designed to be luxurious and extravagant, reflecting Hilton’s real-life persona.
Hilton’s virtual lands are a prime example of the creative possibilities that Sandbox offers. Users can create anything they can imagine, from small-scale personal spaces to massive virtual cities.
What Can We Expect from the Sandbox in the Future?
At present, the Sandbox has collaborated with more than 165 brands, which includes famous franchises such as Smurfs, Atari, and The Walking Dead. In addition, the Sandbox has also collaborated with Snoop Dogg and Deadmau5 in the form of virtual performances. The Sandbox has also teamed up with the World of Women (WoW) to help them promote female inclusivity and representation in the Metaverse. For this initiative, the WoW Foundation received $25 million for five years, and this fund will be utilized for mentorship and education. The Sandbox has also raised more than $90 million to date. Its team is working towards expanding its Metaverse and the product suite.
Furthermore, as per analyst prediction, the price of The Sandbox might reach more than $7 by the first quarter of 2023 and can reach more than $200 in five years. Therefore, financial analysts believe that The Sandbox has immense growth prospects in the future, as the industry is in the developmental phase. The investors should conduct their own research or talk or listen to Metaverse experts before investing in it, as the industry condition may change as per the various situations.
Conclusion
The Sandbox is one of the many new entrants in the world of cryptocurrency and is touted to be a good investment that is attracting new participants and investors every day. Furthermore, SAND might be a good investment if the historical prices are considered, as it has done well compared to others. But, as said earlier, investors should be careful and do their research before making any investments, as the cryptocurrencies are highly volatile; hence, the prices that are going up today may go drastically down tomorrow. Therefore, it is advisable to learn Metaverse or get Metaverse training to help you make more informed decisions around it before investing.
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