Metaverse has undoubtedly created an uproar in the virtual space. More than anything else, it has become a phenomenon that has enticed the larger sections of society. It has catered to industries like real estate, healthcare, entertainment, education, etc. and gaming is no exception. By 2030, the metaverse market is estimated to reach a whopping $936.57 billion, which is insane. Roblox is a metaverse game that has been the top pick for gamers, and its daily active users are increasing tremendously. Reportedly, more than 58.8 million daily active users log in to Roblox games globally. Looking at the spectacular opportunities offered by this mind-blowing 3D virtual space, many entrepreneurs are looking forward to venturing into this spectacular business.
Gaming has always been the hot favourite of users. With metaverse, the level has just gone up. This mesmerizing platform provides a highly interactive and engaging environment for the players that they can’t resist. Fantastic computer-generating gaming characters, design, and real-time responsiveness are enough to capture the attention of gamers. Now, with the advent of blockchain, utmost security with significant transparency, creativity, and control over assets has amplified the way of gaming.
Developing a metaverse gaming platform is no joke. Lots of effort and precision are required, and speaking specifically about the metaverse gaming platform, several factors directly impact the metaverse game development cost. However, the estimated cost to build a metaverse game ranges between $55,000-$150,000. The prices may also rise, depending upon the level of personalization.
This article will reveal all the possible aspects that influence the development cost so that you don’t spend too much money on the not-so-important things.
Top Metaverse Development Companies in Dubai & Saudi Arabia
Metaverse Game Development Cost And The Parameters Affecting It
Developing an ideal metaverse game is a dream for many businesses, so it is necessary to have a proper cost breakdown. Here, we have discussed some of the most important factors that affect the metaverse game development cost.
(1) Metaverse Game Development Process
| Development Process | Development Cost |
| Research And Analysis | $5000-$6000 |
| Design And Development | $8000-$15000 |
| Quality Assurance | $6000-$10000 |
| Launch And Post Maintenance | $5000-$8000 |
| Marketing | $6000-$9000 |
(2) Metaverse Features
Metaverse games are highly dependent on integrated features. This 3D virtual space captivates the players’ attention, and this is all due to its wonderful features and functionalities.
Hardware
The basic feature of the metaverse game platform is the hardware that consists of dynamic graphic cards that render graphics in 3D. It even can run the desired gaming engine at high frame rates to make the games look super immersive and realistic. Along with the engine, they also run other devices like VR headsets, game controller sets, and motion controllers. The cost will depend hugely upon the type of hardware you want for your metaverse gaming platform.
Infrastructure
The infrastructure is the most pivotal element of the metaverse game, as it constantly maintains top-notch connectivity with the virtual world. There is also the requirement of high-powered 5G towers for extraordinary speed, low latency, and massive capacity to make the virtual experience of gamers more delightful.
Digital Avatars
The most important characteristic of the metaverse games is the digital avatars. These are the computerized replicas of the real-life user in the virtual space. Whatever actions the players enact in the physical world are replicated in the metaverse. Therefore creating digital avatars requires maximal perfection and clarity.
Security
There have been enough cases regarding security threats and fraudulent activities. And most importantly, when it’s about creating a virtual world, security plays a key role. Metaverse offers ultra-high security and privacy to users so that they don’t fall for any cyber-attacks.
(3) Metaverse Tech Stacks
Tech stacks form the basis of any platform, and in the case of metaverse games, it matters a lot. It is because here we are forming a seamless connection between the real and virtual world that delivers a higher level of interactivity. To make this scenario happen, first-rate technologies are required. Here we have mentioned a few important ones;
Augmented Reality
AR helps in amplifying real-world scenarios with computer-generated content. This technology completely changes boring with highly interesting and appealing visuals. It requires a bandwidth of >100Mbps, and the users can be in touch with the physical world while engaging with the virtual world.
Virtual Reality
VR creates a virtually immersive environment where the users are completely transported to the virtual world. The bandwidth required is a minimum of 50 Mbps, and to access that part of the world, a VR headset is a must.
Artificial Intelligence
AI is a fantastic technology that uplifts the gaming experience to another level. All the tasks are automated and are linked with human cognitive functions. This amazing technology can potentially create extremely realistic and super-smart virtual opponents powered by advanced computer algorithms.
Internet Of Things
The essential feature of a metaverse game is IoT which connects various devices for smooth and flawless communication between both worlds. It eliminates the chances of any irregularities and bugs that hamper the interconnectivity in many ways.
3D Modeling
Gaming is all about enthralling and riveting graphics and visuals. This is possible by implementing 3D modeling to build characters, virtual settings, and props within the game. It is a perfect feature for creating an immersive experience that uplifts the game’s aesthetics.
Blockchain
Blockchain technology is necessary as it is helpful in providing a safe platform for virtual transactions ensuring security and transparency. It allows complete ownership of the in-game along with providing interoperability among multiple devices.
So, considering the technologies used, the metaverse game development cost will tend to differ.
(4) Metaverse Game Development Team
- UI/UX developers
- 3D modelers
- 3D Game designer
- Blockchain expert and engineer
- Unity 3D, Unreal, Maya, CryEngine developers
- Full stack developers
- Metaverse Research Scientist
- Ecosystem developer
- Metaverse cyber security expert
The list does not end here; there are more people that form part of a solid metaverse game development team. Their salaries play a key role in determining metaverse game development costs.
(5) Genre Of Games
There are various genres of games, and depending on the features and functionalities, the prices differ. Some of the popular game genres are role-playing (RPG), adventure, racing and more. For instance, in RPG games, there are features like interoperable gaming assets, multi-player gaming, PvP combats, reward systems etc.
Similarly, metaverse racing games include social gaming, AI integration, customized avatars, auction cars, AI-integrated scenes, and portable gaming assets. All these genres of games are based on different models like play to earn, in-app purchases, advertising, subscription fees, in-app sponsorships etc. So, based on that, the metaverse game development cost varies.
(6) Games Classification
Broadly speaking, games are divided majorly into three main categories, i.e. Indie, AA and AAA games. This classification is made on the size of the development firm. Let’s understand in detail;
Indie Games
These are developed by independent game companies with lesser team members, so the resources will also be limited, and therefore, the development cost will be lesser.
AA Games
These games are made with budgets slightly above the indie games and have considerably more team members, i.e. somewhere in the range of 50- 80 employees.
AAA Games
These are big-budget games that are produced on a massive level. Their game development team comprises 100+ employees. Because of the greater number of resources, the development cost will also be higher.
| Games Classification | Cost Estimation |
| Indie | $30000 -$50,000 |
| AA | $50,000-$100,000 |
| AAA | >$100,000 |
(7) Geographical Location
The geographical location of the metaverse development company also plays a significant role while predicting the cost of building a metaverse game.
| Geographical Location | Hourly Rates |
| North America | $50-$80/hr |
| Asia | $25-$50/hr |
| Middle East | $45-$100/hr |
| Europe | $60-$110/hr |
Other Factors Corresponding To Metaverse Game development cost
The other factors that affect the overall development cost are mentioned below;
- Platform complexity
- Complications existing within the games
- Level Of Interactivity
- Multiplayer functionality
- Games promotion and advertising
- Server maintenance
- Gaming APIs integration
- Creating fantastic storylines and gaming characters
- UI/UX interface
- Technical complexity (data integration, technologies integration, network architecture)
- Sound effects
- Graphic design
- Integrated features
- Customization as per project requirements
It’s a never-ending list based on which the budget of the metaverse game is decided.
Metaverse gaming utilizes technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Blockchain, Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Spatial Computing, Networking Technologies, and User-generated Content (UGC) tools to create immersive and interactive virtual worlds.
It takes around 8 months get the metaverse game developed.
Bottom Line!!
If you want to develop a metaverse game, then the above-mentioned factors will be helpful for you to make a decision regarding metaverse game development. Though this virtual space is still in its nascent stages with time and ongoing technological advancements, it is set to break several records. There is a sudden craze among individuals, and businesses are finding it a lucrative option to expand their sales and generate high revenue.
In this blog, we have clearly mentioned the metaverse game development cost breakdown and the influencing factors. So, without wasting any time, make a forward move and get started with your metaverse gaming business.
