Minecraft creator Mojang has said that it will not be allowing NFTs or other blockchain tech in the game.
In a post on its website, the company laid out what these technologies are for those who might not be aware before laying down the law: this stuff has no place in Minecraft. For one, Mojang says that NFTs create models of scarcity which go against its ethos that all players should have access to the "same functionality".
"Some companies have recently launched NFT implementations that are associated with Minecraft world files and skin packs," Mojang wrote.
"Other examples of how NFTs and blockchain could be utilized with Minecraft include creating Minecraft collectible NFTs, allowing players to earn NFTs through activities performed on a server, or earning Minecraft NFT rewards for activities outside the game.
"Each of these uses of NFTs and other blockchain technologies creates digital ownership based on scarcity and exclusion, which does not align with Minecraft values of creative inclusion and playing together. NFTs are not inclusive of all our community and create a scenario of the haves and the have-nots. The speculative pricing and investment mentality around NFTs takes the focus away from playing the game and encourages profiteering, which we think is inconsistent with the long-term joy and success of our players.
"We are also concerned that some third-party NFTs may not be reliable and may end up costing players who buy them. Some third-party NFT implementations are also entirely dependent on blockchain technology and may require an asset manager who might disappear without notice. There have also been instances where NFTs were sold at artificially or fraudulently inflated prices. We recognize that creation inside our game has intrinsic value, and we strive to provide a marketplace where those values can be recognized."
Mojang does, however, say that it will be paying attention to the blockchain space to see if any potential use emerges that does not go against its ethos.
"We will also be paying close attention to how blockchain technology evolves over time to ensure that the above principles are withheld and determine whether it will allow for more secure experiences or other practical and inclusive applications in gaming," Mojang continued. "However, we have no plans of implementing blockchain technology into Minecraft right now."