What is a Dynamic NFT (dNFT)? Use Cases & Examples

Last Updated:
May 19, 2023
What is a Dynamic NFT (dNFT) - Feature Image

Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) have been at the forefront of this revolution, allowing the tokenization of unique digital and physical objects on the blockchain. However, the new wave in this space is Dynamic NFTs (dNFTs). Read more.

The advent of blockchain technology has triggered a sea of change in digital ownership and asset representation. Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) have been at the forefront of this revolution, allowing the tokenization of unique digital and physical objects on the blockchain. However, the new wave in this space is Dynamic NFTs (dNFTs) which bring even more fascinating and complex features to the NFT landscape​​​.

What is an NFT?

To understand dNFTs, we must first revisit the concept of an NFT. A Non-Fungible Token (NFT) is a form of storing unique digital objects on blockchains. Unlike fungible tokens which are interchangeable (like traditional cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or Ethereum), each NFT is unique and not interchangeable with any other. This unique identity is established through a smart contract, which creates an unchangeable token ID for each NFT. The uniqueness and non-interchangeability of NFTs are what make them perfect for representing ownership of unique digital or physical items on the blockchain​​.

NFT Metadata

NFTs store related data in a component known as metadata. This metadata can include the name of the NFT, its traits, and addresses of linked digital items such as images or videos. The metadata provides a description for the NFT and is crucial in differentiating one NFT from another. However, with traditional NFTs, once the metadata is set, it cannot be changed​6​​7​.

Enter Dynamic NFTs

Dynamic NFTs (dNFTs) are an evolution of the traditional NFT concept. Unlike static NFTs, dNFTs have the capability to change over time. This change happens within the metadata of the NFT. Developers build a dNFT and encode automatic changes in its smart contract based on specific conditions. Therefore, dNFTs can evolve and adapt based on external conditions, making them a perfect fit for representing objects or entities that change over time​​.

Examples and Applications of dNFTs

The concept of dNFTs is particularly useful in creating NFTs that experience progress, aging, and changes based on various conditions. An excellent example of this is in metaverse games and worlds. 

In many traditional video games, characters evolve, age, and change as the player continues playing. Using dNFTs in games can allow for the creation of characters and items that evolve and grow as the game progresses or as players achieve certain milestones. 

For instance, a character's attributes could change over time, or the traits of an in-game item could evolve based on in-game events or player interactions. 

This dynamic nature of dNFTs adds a layer of depth and complexity to the gaming experience, making it more immersive and engaging for players​​.

Interaction with Real-World Data

In addition to in-game changes, dynamic NFTs can also interact with real-world data. For instance, NFTs can be minted or changed based on data from the physical world, such as weather conditions, location data, or even data from other digital platforms. These data-driven changes can further enhance the dynamism and versatility of dynamic NFTs, making them highly suitable for applications in various sectors, including gaming, collectibles, digital art, and even real estate and finance.

Use Cases of dNFTs in Gaming

Gaming is a sector where the concept of dynamic NFTs can be fully exploited. Here are a few potential use cases:

  • Competition Based NFTs: In multiplayer online games, in-game items can be minted as NFTs. These NFTs can provide players with special privileges within the game. In this scenario, the ownership of the NFT could change based on in-game competitions, with the NFT being transferred to the victor or placed randomly within the game​​.
  • Verifiable Randomness: Developers can use tools like Chainlink's Verifiable Randomness Function (VRF) to apply random traits to an NFT, randomizing the placement, creation, and distribution of in-game items. For example, fair and unbiased randomness can determine each in-game item’s rarity and power ranking when it is minted​.
  • Augmented Reality (AR) Games: Games like Pokemon GO demonstrate how games can interface with the real world to create global competitions and experiences. In such games, NFTs can be minted in real-world locations based on user-specific or objective data. NFTs can be placed at random locations using tools like Chainlink VRF or can be placed at sponsored locations​.
  • Real-Life Fantasy Sports: Digital trading cards minted as NFTs can represent real-world sports players or gamers to facilitate fantasy sports competitions. The value of the cards could depend on the real-life statistical outputs of the associated player, with the value of cards being used to determine the winners of tournaments and trigger winning payouts​​.

Conclusion

Dynamic NFTs represent a significant advancement in the field of blockchain and NFT technology. By providing the capability for NFTs to change over time based on pre-set conditions, dNFTs open up a myriad of new possibilities in the world of digital ownership and asset representation. 

Particularly in the world of gaming, the use of dNFTs promises to create a more engaging, immersive, and dynamic gaming experience. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see more innovative and exciting applications of dNFTs in the future.