AI and blockchain technologies have begun to secure a significant place in Israel’s fast-growing tech ecosystem, with a particularly strong impact in the gaming sector. Game developers are using AI to make games smarter, more dynamic and player-centric, with in-game worlds now evolving based on player behaviour. Meanwhile, blockchain technology is revolutionising ownership and security in games, allowing players to truly own their digital assets, which are stored securely and transparently. Recognising the potential of these two technologies, Israeli startups are developing innovative solutions that can have an impact on both local and global markets. This technology-driven transformation is paving the way for Israel to become a major player on the global gaming stage.
While large companies are leading the way, smaller startups are also stepping into the spotlight with notable projects. One of the leading companies in AI is Mobileye, best known for its leadership in the automotive sector, but its AI technologies are having a profound impact across multiple industries. In addition to these large-scale successes, smaller but impactful startups also deserve mention. D-ID, for example, focuses on visual content with AI, developing innovative solutions in facial recognition and animation technologies to improve character animation in the gaming world. Similarly, UnCaged Studios, which works on blockchain-based games and in-game economies, is running groundbreaking projects that allow players to own their assets through blockchain technology. Both large-scale projects and smaller but effective startups are creating an innovative momentum in Israel’s tech ecosystem. The combined potential of AI and blockchain is making Israel a key player not only in the gaming world, but also in the global technological transformation.
Another notable initiative in the field of AI and blockchain is Playtika. This company, which has achieved global success in game development, uses AI to personalise the user experience and analyse player behaviour to provide richer and more immersive experiences. In addition, ChainWars, which is working to integrate blockchain technology into game economies, ensures the security of in-game asset trading with a blockchain infrastructure, providing players with both transparency and ownership. Another smaller but notable startup, Toya, is developing technologies that use AI to analyse player interactions and improve game worlds based on this data. Toya is creating a unique opening in the space by designing games specifically for women and young players. On the blockchain side, startup Beam offers solutions that make microtransactions and digital asset transfers in games faster and more secure using blockchain technology. Such examples in Israel show how widespread and diverse technological innovation is in the gaming world.
On the global stage, in addition to Israel, Silicon Valley in the US, the Beijing and Shenzhen regions in China, Tokyo in Japan, and cities like Berlin in Europe are emerging as innovation hubs for AI startups. The Jewish diaspora is also frequently making its mark in this international entrepreneurial ecosystem, playing a crucial role in shaping the future of AI technologies.
One of the notable India-based startups, Forte Labs, aims to create blockchain-based game economies. Forte provides game developers with a blockchain infrastructure that allows in-game assets to be sold in the real world. This allows players to own and securely trade the digital items they earn in games. Another key startup at the intersection of AI and blockchain is Singapore-based Ankr, which provides decentralised cloud computing solutions for games. The platform enables game developers to run decentralised games by providing AI-powered game engines and blockchain infrastructure. In Europe, Sorare stands out as one of the prominent startups integrating AI and blockchain into sports-themed games. Sorare enables the collection and trading of football cards using blockchain, introducing a new economic model to the gaming world. AI algorithms analyse the value and trading of cards, optimising users’ strategies to acquire the best cards. Brazil-based Decentral Games is creating a blockchain-based gaming economy, while using AI to understand players’ in-game behaviour and use this data to make the game more dynamic. These startups show how AI and blockchain technologies can revolutionise the gaming world, with the potential to create profound changes in game economies and user experiences.
One of the standout projects in this regard is RyuJin, an innovative platform that combines blockchain and AI. Known for its association with Uniswap, RyuJin aims to shape the future of decentralised finance while fostering wealth and innovation by supporting the Omikami ecosystem. The project’s commitment to decentralization, security, and community-driven growth makes it an attractive choice for investors and users alike. Described as a “majestic dragon that rules the oceans and the universe”, RyuJin offers its users a secure and decentralised environment powered by AI technologies. They use nice graphics and have a very intriguing story. This platform has the potential to be a major player not only in the tech world, but also in the global economy, emerging as a key AI player in this arena.
Even in countries not known for their technology sectors, small but significant steps are being taken in the field of AI. Despite limited resources, local innovation and entrepreneurial spirit show that AI is starting to spread globally. For example, Twiga Foods, a platform in Kenya, is using AI in the agricultural sector to make the supply process between farmers and retailers more efficient. This platform focuses on local issues and optimises the distribution of agricultural products to markets. Similarly, one of the standout startups in Vietnam is Ami, an AI-powered smart home assistant platform. The platform offers the ability to manage and automate home devices by learning users’ habits. Ami demonstrates that AI can find applications even in countries like Vietnam, by developing solutions that simplify daily life.
In conclusion, artificial intelligence and blockchain technologies continue to transform the tech sector and create new business models. Startups that are creating innovative solutions by combining these two technologies, both in Israel and around the world, are shaping the future of the gaming world. These cutting-edge technologies, offered by both small and large companies, not only make games smarter and more secure, but also provide players with a freer, more transparent and more empowering experience. In the future, we are sure to see more change and development in the gaming industry as these areas evolve.
Dalia Cohen has worked in magazines such as Newsweek, Fortune and TechCrunch in her editorial career. She is actively involved in many NGOs and writes articles on topics such as politics, technology and business. She is also actively working on antisemitism and women's rights.