AI won’t make you rich but crypto games might, Axie founder steps down: Web3 Gamer

CoinTelegraph

by Ciaran Lyons

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The founder of the popular Web3 farming game *Pixels*, Luke Barwikowski, has expressed skepticism about AI being a reliable path to wealth, urging enthusiasts instead to focus on crypto and blockchain gaming. While AI is gaining traction in the industry, Barwikowski highlights that opportunities for significant financial gains are limited to private investors, leaving little room for everyday users. In contrast, he emphasizes that crypto gaming remains a viable area for mainstream participants to capitalize on emerging opportunities. Meanwhile, Web3 gaming giant Animoca Brands has doubled down on AI by launching *Animoca Minds*, a platform allowing users to deploy and operate AI agents. This move aligns with growing trends among content creators shifting focus from blockchain gaming to AI-driven projects. However, not everyone is convinced that AI will overshadow crypto gaming. Content creator "Iceyy" points out that several Web3 games are still thriving, particularly those adopting the risk-to-earn model. Axie Infinity co-founder Aleksander Larsen has announced his departure from day-to-day operations at Sky Mavis, Axie Infinity, and Ronin Network. Larsen revealed that his new focus is on "defense," a decision influenced by the 2022 Ronin Network hack, which exposed vulnerabilities in security practices. The attack, carried out by North Korean hackers, prompted Larsen to prioritize long-term stability over rapid growth. Despite challenges, the Web3 gaming sector continues to evolve. Animoca Brands' foray into AI and the upcoming release of *Illuvium’s Overworld*—an open-world adventure game set for launch in December 2026—are signals that innovation is alive in the space. These developments highlight a dynamic industry where opportunities and risks coexist, keeping crypto enthusiasts engaged and invested in its future.

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Originally published on CoinTelegraph on 2/26/2026