Back to Basics: Why I'm Excited About Splinterlands' New Free-to-Play Mode
I can't believe I'm saying these words, but here we go:
I'm excited about getting back to basics.
And no, not the Back to Basics ruleset we all want to see forever retired from all forms of Splinterlands gameplay.
In the most recent Town Hall, something quietly monumental happened—Basics Mode was officially announced.
While it may have been glossed over in the moment, make no mistake: this is the most meaningful commitment to new player acquisition & long-term development we've seen in all our years with Splinterlands.
It’s not just another feature.
It’s a mindset shift.
A sign that we’re finally serious about onboarding, experimentation & creating a real onramp into this incredible game we’ve spent years building.
Let’s talk about why that matters.
Back to Basics: The First Time I'm Actually Excited About This Phrase
We’ve been talking about it for years. And now, finally, we’re seeing real traction: Basics Mode is coming.
This new free-to-play game mode represents a major step toward solving one of crypto gaming’s toughest problems—how to attract & keep new players.
And better yet, it's a sandbox.
A no-stakes, all-access environment to experiment, to play—and most importantly, to stay.
Why Basics Mode Matters
At a time when onboarding new players is harder than ever, Basics Mode offers a frictionless gateway into the Splinterlands ecosystem.
No NFTs required. No purchases. No complicated preamble before your first battle.
In its ideal form, Basics Mode:
- Lets new players experience the heart of Splinterlands
- Showcases our gameplay-first design & strategic depth
- Encourages experimentation with units, bloodlines, mechanics & rulesets
- Builds confidence before asking anyone to open their wallet
Just as important—it gives us, the community & the dev team a safe space to try new ideas.
A Playground for Testing & Innovation
Growing the game isn’t just about bringing people in—it’s about giving them a reason to stay.
Basics Mode could become our most powerful testing ground yet.
What if we used it to:
- Pilot new mechanics (draft formats, co-op modes, etc...)?
- Test out new reward systems without disrupting ranked play or the broader economy?
- Build tutorials & story-driven experiences that make onboarding actually fun?
The stakes are low.
The opportunity is massive.
Basics isn't just for new players—it’s where Splinterlands can explore its next evolution.
Reinforcing a Premium Model
Let’s be honest: Splinterlands has lasted this long not because of free giveaways or short-lived reward gimmicks—but because we’ve leaned into being a premium game.
Yes, card prices were often inflated.
Yes, that created friction.
But it’s also what kept the lights on.
Basics Mode doesn’t undermine that model—it complements it.
We’re giving players a taste of what makes Splinterlands special.
And when they want more—when they’re ready for land, brawls, and the full economy—we’ll be ready for them.
This is Our Chance to Get It Right
Survival Mode is back. Campaign content is growing. Land Phase 2.0 is on the horizon. Other game modes are rumored to be coming soon.
And now, with Basics Mode, we finally have a legitimate onramp for the next wave of players.
Let’s not waste it.
If we approach Basics with creativity, community support & a little swagger—we just might change the game. Literally.