Splinterlands is a free-to-play* (limited) and play to earn* collectible card game for PC, with in-game rewards and optional purchases integrating blockchain (Hive) and NFT technology protocols that enable players to own and trade what they earn or buy in game for Hive cryptocurrency (exchangeable for ETH, Tron, and WAX). Every battle is a unique challenge that consists of dynamically created combat rules, a timed team building session, and the battle itself. Splinterlands combines the collectability and resale value of physical card games with the convenience and speed of a digital game. This game should not have been added to our free to play game index, but we decided to add it (without any rating) in order for F2P players to know the game isn’t F2P friendly (see bellow). The game was not marketed as free to play by the publisher but other websites make it seem like the game is.
Free to play model
Splinterlands is not a true free to play game, and is pay to win. As with most F2P card games, it is free to play the game using cards you get for free at the start. However, unlike most F2P card games, you cannot earn cards for free by completing daily quests and season rewards from battles. To earn cards by playing, players must purchase a Summoner’s Spellbook (10 USD). Random card packs or individual cards may also be bought to enhance gameplay.
Those who are prone to spending addiction and who may suffer from it should stay away from any randomized product purchases and find a safe way to enjoy themselves or make money.
Play to earn model
Splinterlands is not a free-to-play-to-earn game. It is pay-to-win and pay-and-play-to-earn. All cards can be traded for Hive cryptocurrency with other players, but for F2P players, the only cards you earn for free are those given at the start. You need to pay 10 USD in order to start earning cards, by completing daily quests and season rewards which can be traded for Hive cryptocurrency, and then be used to buy other cards or transferred into real money such as Hive-to-TRON-to-USD or Hive-to-ETH-to-USD.
