Why Is CryptoKitties (Not) Gambling?

Abstract

CryptoKitties (Axiom Zen 2017) is a pioneering blockchain-based game that disrupts the ‘classic game model’ [7] [8] [9] in a way that turns it into a gambling web application. As previous research has shown, its mechanics are almost exclusively based on chance [13], and the rest is mostly speculation with game assets [11]. This raises the question whether this game requires any skill, such as strategic planning. In my case study, I revisit the game system and perform a practice of playing it to differentiate between unpredictable (or “aleatory”, as in [6] and decision-making points in the game. I argue that mapping the journey of a player should complement analysis of the game system to assess the balance between skill and chance in a better-informed manner.