CoinClear

Big Time

5.2/10

Big Time has AAA pedigree and delivers a playable action RPG with NFT cosmetic drops. Better game quality than most Web3 titles, but player numbers are modest and the free-to-play-to-earn loop needs more content depth to retain players long-term.

Updated: February 16, 2026AI Model: claude-4-opusVersion 1

Overview

Big Time is a multiplayer action RPG developed by Big Time Studios, a team led by Ari Meilich (co-founder of Decentraland) and staffed with veterans from Epic Games, Blizzard, and EA. The game features time-travel themed dungeon crawling where players battle through procedurally generated levels, collect loot, and earn NFT cosmetic items that can be traded on secondary markets.

The project takes a deliberate approach to Web3 integration: the game is free to play, blockchain elements are optional, and the focus is on making an enjoyable game first. The BIGTIME token was introduced as an in-game currency earned through gameplay. This "game-first" philosophy distinguishes Big Time from many Web3 games that prioritized tokenomics over fun.

Gameplay

Score: 6/10

Big Time delivers a competent action RPG experience with satisfying combat, class-based character progression, and cooperative dungeon runs. The time-travel aesthetic provides a unique setting, and the procedurally generated dungeons offer replay variety. Multiple character classes with distinct playstyles encourage experimentation. The NFT cosmetic system is integrated without feeling predatory. However, the game lacks the content depth of established ARPGs like Diablo or Path of Exile. Endgame content is limited, and the gameplay loop can become repetitive. It's good for a Web3 game but average compared to traditional gaming standards.

Technology

Score: 6/10

Built on a custom game engine, Big Time delivers decent graphics and smooth multiplayer performance. The game runs on PC with reasonable system requirements. The blockchain integration is handled server-side, meaning players don't need wallets to play — NFTs drop in-game and can optionally be moved on-chain. This is a smart design choice that reduces friction. The SPACE system (virtual real estate for crafting) adds a unique layer. However, the server infrastructure has experienced instability issues, and the game is PC-only, limiting accessibility. The technology is competent but not cutting-edge.

Economy

Score: 5/10

Big Time's economy is better designed than most Web3 games. NFT cosmetics provide genuine scarcity, and the SPACE system (required to produce NFTs) creates a tiered economy. BIGTIME tokens are earned through gameplay and can be spent on in-game upgrades. The cosmetics-only approach avoids the pay-to-win problems that plagued Axie Infinity-style games. However, the economy is still small in absolute terms, and NFT cosmetic prices have declined from early access highs. The sustainability of the earn-through-play model depends entirely on maintaining sufficient player demand for cosmetics.

Adoption

Score: 4/10

Big Time has achieved modest but real adoption. The early access period attracted a dedicated player base, and the game has maintained active servers. However, player numbers are far below what's needed for a thriving multiplayer RPG. Concurrent player counts are in the low thousands. The game has not broken through to mainstream gaming audiences, despite its AAA pedigree. Marketing has been limited compared to the budget expected of a game with this level of talent. The lack of mobile or console versions significantly limits the potential audience.

Tokenomics

Score: 5/10

BIGTIME token has an uncapped supply earned through gameplay, with natural sinks through crafting and upgrading. The SPACE NFT system creates a parallel economy with fixed supply. The token distribution is primarily through gameplay, reducing concerns about insider dumping. However, the uncapped token supply means inflation is a constant pressure. The relationship between BIGTIME token and SPACE NFTs creates a complex dual economy that can be difficult for new players to understand. The tokenomics are innovative but unproven at scale.

Risk Factors

  • Limited player base: Modest adoption despite AAA talent
  • Content depth: Game needs significantly more content to compete with traditional ARPGs
  • PC-only: No mobile or console versions limits audience dramatically
  • Inflationary token: Uncapped BIGTIME supply creates persistent sell pressure
  • Competitive ARPG market: Diablo, Path of Exile, and others dominate the genre
  • SPACE centralization: SPACE NFT distribution was primarily to early investors/insiders
  • Revenue sustainability: Cosmetic sales alone may not sustain long-term development
  • Web3 gaming stigma: Mainstream gamers remain skeptical of blockchain games

Conclusion

Big Time is one of the more credible attempts at building a genuine Web3 game. The team has real gaming industry expertise, the gameplay is genuinely enjoyable, and the approach to blockchain integration (optional, cosmetics-only) is smart. However, "good for a Web3 game" isn't enough — Big Time needs to be good enough to compete with traditional games, and it's not there yet. The limited player base, content depth, and platform availability are all challenges that need addressing. Big Time has more potential than most Web3 games, but potential is not the same as achievement.

Sources

  • Big Time game analytics and server data
  • CoinGecko market data
  • Big Time official documentation
  • SPACE NFT marketplace data
  • Web3 gaming industry comparisons