Telegram Mini Apps (TMAs) and the rise of blockchain gaming: top TMAs for crypto

Have your friends sent you invites to Telegram crypto games, but you're unsure what they are? They're a form of Telegram Mini App (TMAs), which are web applications that run seamlessly within the Telegram messenger, leveraging technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

These apps connect directly to Telegram, giving a unified experience from chats or group conversations. There's no need for extra installations, simplifying access for all. For instance, imagine a game or productivity tool that opens with just one click from a Telegram chat, available across Android, iOS, PC, Mac, and Linux. The cross-platform compatibility of this software helps provide a consistent experience no matter what device you're using.

Curious to learn more? In this article, we'll explore what Telegram Mini Apps are, how they support the emergence of blockchain gaming, and introduce some of the top Telegram Mini App games you can play today.

TL;DR

• Telegram Mini Apps run directly within Telegram using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

• TMAs are compatible with Android, iOS, PC, Mac, and Linux devices without requiring extra installations.

• TMAs can be games, content sharing, and productivity tools accessed via the Telegram messaging platform. They use Telegram bots for interactive features.

• Developers can make money on TMAs through purchases, subscriptions, and ads. Telegram offers APIs for easy integration.

• TMAs can use TON's blockchain for decentralized applications, secure transactions, and smart contracts.

How do Telegram Mini Apps merge with Web3?

TMAs connect with Web3 technologies via TON's blockchain to enable decentralized applications (DApps), secure transactions, and smart contracts. This integration transforms Telegram from a messaging platform into one that supports DApps.

TON blockchain integration

The TON blockchain plays a role in merging TMAs with Web3 technologies. It provides the infrastructure needed for decentralization, making sure that data is securely stored and transactions are transparent and tamper-proof. For example, in a typical scenario, the TON blockchain would handle the transaction if you used a TMA to trade crypto.

DApps

DApps within Telegram use TMAs to offer decentralized services that can be accessed directly from the messenger app. These applications operate on the blockchain, providing advantages such as increased security, transparency, and independence from centralized authorities. For example, a DApp like a decentralized finance (DeFi) platform could allow users to lend or borrow crypto without the need for intermediaries, all from within Telegram.

Secure transactions

Each transaction is recorded on the blockchain, making it highly secure and resistant to fraud. When using a TMA to purchase a non-fungible token (NFT), for example, the transaction is securely processed and recorded, making sure that ownership is indisputable.

Smart contracts

Smart contracts are self-executing contracts written in code. They enable automated and secure transactions without manual intervention. A smart contract in a TMA can be used to automatically transfer ownership of a digital asset when payment is confirmed, making transactions faster and more secure.

Real-world example

TMAs can be used to play blockchain-based games where each in-game asset is an NFT. The TON blockchain makes sure that all transactions involving these assets are secure. Meanwhile, smart contracts automate the buying, selling, or trading of these assets, providing a seamless gaming experience within Telegram.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of Telegram Mini Apps?

TMAs have been well-received by the crypto community on Telegram. Let's look at the advantages.

Faster P2P transactions

TMAs provide another way to facilitate peer-to-peer transactions (P2P). The technology not only helps to speed up transactions but also reduces the costs associated with third-party services.

Payment gateways

The integration of payment gateways is another advantage brought by TMAs. The mini apps support multiple payment options, including traditional methods like Google Pay and Apple Pay, as well as cryptocurrencies.Offering altcoins lets TMAs use different digital currencies, which could support the growth of crypto adoption. For example, a TMA could allow you to pay with Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Toncoin.

User-friendly interface

TMAs are designed to be user-friendly, making it easier for individuals to enter the crypto space. By integrating various services within Telegram, TMAs eliminate the need for multiple apps, providing a smoother user experience.

While TMAs offer various advantages, they also come with disadvantages users and developers should be aware of.

Complexity for new users

A major drawback of TMAs is their complexity. Some individuals may be unfamiliar with blockchain and find it difficult to understand concepts like P2P transactions and smart contracts. This complexity could hinder widespread adoption.

Security risks

TMAs may face security risks due to their multiple payment gateways and the handling of sensitive user data. Phishing scams and fake apps may be encountered, deceiving users and leading to potential financial losses. Strong security measures and education on common crypto scams are important to mitigate these risks.

Scalability issues

The TON blockchain may get congested when transaction volumes are high, causing slower processing times and higher fees. This could frustrate some community members, especially during peak times.

Technical barriers

Creating TMAs needs both web development and blockchain knowledge. This can be a hurdle for some developers, especially those new to blockchain. Developers need to know HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and blockchain-specific languages and frameworks, which could present a barrier to getting involved.

Dependency on Telegram

Naturally, TMAs depend on Telegram. Changes to Telegram's policies, platform, or user base can affect TMAs' success and functionality. This dependency could be risky for developers who rely on Telegram for their app's success.

How do Telegram Mini Apps underpin blockchain gaming?

TMAs support the build and deployment of blockchain gaming by providing a decentralized platform within Telegram. Here, users can access in-game token economies and engage with fellow players as members of Telegram's existing user base.

Decentralized games and in-game token economies

TMAs bring the advantages of decentralization to the gaming space, all underpinned by blockchain technology. The mini apps provide transparency, security, and true ownership of in-game assets, giving players more control. TMAs achieve this by integrating blockchain features directly into the Telegram app, meaning you don't have to jump from app to app.

Hamster Kombat and Catizen

Hamster Kombat, a breakout blockchain game in mid-2024, uses TMAs in blockchain gaming. Players train and battle virtual hamsters, each represented as a unique NFT. These NFTs can be traded or sold, creating an in-game token economy. Players also earn crypto rewards that can be used in-game or exchanged on various platforms.

Catizen is another popular blockchain-based game where players adopt and interact with unique virtual cats. These cats are NFTs that players can breed, trade, and compete with.

With Catizen and similar games, TMAs enable real-time interaction and transactions within Telegram, boosting community engagement and encouraging the growth of the player base.

Community engagement

Speaking of community engagement, TMAs boost interactions between players through Telegram's social features. Players can discuss strategies, share achievements, and trade assets within the app, making gaming more social and collaborative.

Real-world example

Imagine a player in Hamster Kombat wanting to trade a rare hamster. They can chat with others, finalize the trade, and have the new hamster in their collection right away.

What are the top Telegram Mini App games?

Now that you understand more about what TMAs are and how they work, let's look at some of the popular TMA blockchain games available today.

Hamster Kombat

Launched in May 2024, Hamster Kombat is a blockchain-based game that allows players to engage in battles with their virtual hamsters. Players can train their hamsters, participate in tournaments, and earn cryptocurrency rewards. NFTs are a key part of the game, as they allow players to buy, sell, or trade unique hamsters and accessories.

TapSwap

TapSwap has gained popularity worldwide for its simple tap-to-earn mechanics. This Telegram-based game allows you to mine digital assets simply by tapping on your phone. By completing simple in-app tasks, players earn gold coins, known as shares, which some speculate will be convertible into USDT upon the launch of the TAP token.

OKX Racer

We contributed to the Telegram Mini App ecosystem with the launch of OKX Racer — the first such app from a major centralized exchange. OKX Racer invites players to predict the price change of Bitcoin in the next five seconds — selecting "moon" or "doom" with a simple tap. Players earn points for correct guesses, with consecutive correct guesses multiplying players' points earnings. Referral rewards are gained when players invite friends to get involved, and points can be used for in-game upgrades.

Dotcoin

Dotcoin is another tap-to-earn Telegram mini-app with simple gameplay: just tap the central dot to earn Dotcoin. The more you tap, the more Dotcoin you accumulate. Dotcoin stands out with its straightforward interface and engaging mechanics. Players can amplify their earnings by completing tasks, inviting friends, and using various boosts.

MemeFi

MemeFi offers two games — MemeFi Club, a Web3 game, and MemeFi Coin, a Web2 game.MemeFi Club features popular meme icons like Pepe the Frog and Doge. Players join clans, tackle daily missions, battle bosses, and participate in clan raids to earn $MEMEFI rewards. Each clan has a leader, the “memelord,” who guides the clan to earn more rewards. The player's goal is to become a memelord.

Meanwhile, MemeFi Coin is a clicker game on Telegram. Players tap the screen to fight ghost meme characters and earn coins. They can join clans to earn more coins based on the total coins they've already accumulated.

Notcoin

With Notcoin, you can explore Web3 products and earn Notcoin through an explore-to-earn model. Projects buy Notcoin, add it to campaign pools, and allow users to complete campaigns to earn from these pools. The explore and earn option provides tasks like joining social media groups for rewards. You'll earn Notcoin by completing these tasks, benefiting both the projects and the users.

Yescoin

Yescoin uses a swipe-to-earn mechanic. The game features a retro, pixelated design, allowing you to earn digital coins by swiping your screen. Players start in the Bronze league and can progress through Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond leagues, each offering higher value coins and greater rewards. Built on the TON blockchain, Yescoin, grants users additional bonuses when they invite their friends to play the game, helping the project to attract millions of users soon after its launch.

Catizen

Catizen is a blockchain-based virtual pet game where users can adopt, train, and interact with digital cats. Think of it as an upgrade to your tamagotchi from the 90s. Each cat is an NFT, and users can trade, breed, and compete with their pets. The game integrates with the TON blockchain for secure ownership and transactions.

Blum

Blum is one other tap-to-earn TMA that's aiming to become a hybrid exchange. As a hybrid exchange, Blum would combine an off-chain order book with on-chain settlement, providing a smoother user experience as crypto traders can directly from their wallet via the TMA. A collaboration with Pokras Lampas gave users an additional way to earn Blum points — the ecosystem's main currency — by taking part in a Drop Game that granted the points as rewards.

The final word

TMAs are web-based applications that operate within the Telegram messenger app using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. These apps integrate with Telegram itself, offering a smooth experience in chats and group conversations, without the need for extra installations.

One major benefit of TMAs is that games or productivity tools can be accessed directly from Telegram chat, providing simple usability and potentially encouraging more people to step into Web3. Meanwhile, TMAs are available on Android, iOS, PC, Mac, and Linux, allowing users to enjoy these features across devices and further lowering the barrier to entry.

Not just used for blockchain gaming, TMAs support content sharing and productivity tools within Telegram, with the potential for further functions as developers build and innovate. If you're interested in learning more about the possibilities for TMAs and the TON ecosystem, be sure to check out our guide here.