Puma Partners with Web3 Mobile Game UNKJD Soccer to Drive Mainstream Adoption
Puma, the renowned sportswear brand, has entered the Web3 gaming arena through a new partnership with the mobile game UNKJD Soccer. This collaboration aims to integrate Puma-licensed content into the game, enhancing player experiences and showcasing the potential of blockchain technology in mainstream entertainment.
Tal Friedman, CEO of UNKJD, highlighted the significance of Puma's involvement, stating that it adds substantial credibility to the Web3 space and accelerates its acceptance among the public. He emphasized, “When established brands like Puma embrace Web3, it signals a shift in the perception of blockchain technology from niche to mainstream.” The partnership will introduce new Puma-themed characters featuring unique skins and skills that could significantly impact gameplay.
This announcement follows Puma's launch of its 3D metaverse experience, Black Station, which offers exclusive access for holders of Puma Pass non-fungible tokens (NFTs). According to Ivan Dashkov, Puma’s director of emerging marketing tech, integrating with Web3 gaming is a key priority as the brand seeks to engage with its audience in innovative digital environments. He noted that the partnership aligns perfectly with Puma's longstanding connections to both gaming and soccer.
UNKJD Soccer combines elements of street soccer with fantasy gameplay and strategic role-playing, targeting both casual and competitive gamers. The initial Puma-related content is set to be released soon. Friedman believes this partnership represents a crucial moment for the adoption of play-to-earn gaming, stating, “Puma has the ability to introduce Web3 technology to a wide and diverse audience… Major brands like Puma recognize that Web3 is not just the future — it’s already here.”
UNKJD has already attracted 75,000 players during its soft launch, with a full release anticipated in early 2025. The growing momentum in the Web3 gaming sector is evident, as seen in the success of the Telegram-based game Catizen, which recently surpassed 800,000 paying users within six months.
