The Solana ecosystem continues its foray into hardware with the upcoming launch of a device focused solely on Web3 gaming.

Play Solana, a project focused on building gaming devices powered by the Solana blockchain, announced on August 26th that its debut model, the Play Solana Gen 1 (PSG1), will begin shipping on October 6th. The console is priced at $199.

The PSG1 console arrives with gaming-ready specs, powered by an octa-core ARM processor, 8 gigabytes of RAM, WiFi, Bluetooth connectivity and a touch LCD screen. 

What makes this release stand out goes beyond the hardware. Play Solana has equipped the PSG1 console with a built-in Solana wallet, allowing players to store, receive and send crypto tokens and NFTs directly on the device. 

Consequently, this native access empowers developers to create games with true digital identity at their core, blending gameplay with asset ownership in a way that traditional consoles cannot replicate.

To foster early adoption, Play Solana released a limited NFT collection. This move grants 2,000 holders exclusive early access to the PSG1 and ties their benefits directly to the ecosystem’s growth.

Furthermore, Play Solana disclosed that the PSG1 console will support everything from nostalgic pixel-style games to advanced modern titles. It is also expected to run Solana-based dApps, serving as what the team calls a distribution hub for Web3 games on the network.

Play Solana is not alone in its push to link gaming with blockchain hardware. The drive to make on-chain gaming more accessible has prompted rival blockchain networks like Sui to announce their own console, the SuiPlay0X1, slated for launch later in 2025. 

Elsewhere, the focus is on extreme security. B3, a Layer-3 Web3 gaming protocol founded by former Coinbase and Ethereum engineers, is set to build the B3PC. 

Unlike traditional gaming devices, this machine is designed with self-destructing safeguards. Sensitive crypto data can be digitally erased or even physically destroyed at the push of a button. 

Web3 esports is also gaining traction. Miomi Game, a competitive platform offering PvP matches, tournaments, and social features, has integrated with the Polygon network. 

Its players can now earn prizes in AUSD, Agora’s stablecoin, connecting gameplay to real financial rewards.