Oxalis Games Ditches Web3 and NFTs: Cozy RPG Moonfrost Pivots to Premium Steam Launch
A Bold Pivot in Indie Gaming
Indie game studios often take risks to stand out. But few make a turn as sharp as Oxalis Games. The team behind the upcoming cozy RPG Moonfrost has dropped all plans for web3 and NFTs. Instead, they focus on a premium release for PC gamers on Steam and Epic Games Store.
This change shows a growing trend. Many players want relaxing games without crypto hype. Cozy games like Stardew Valley and Animal Crossing draw huge crowds. They offer peace, not speculation. Oxalis heard the call and acted fast.
Leadership Shake-Up at Oxalis Games
The news comes with big changes at the top. Gina Nelson is now the sole CEO of Oxalis Games. She shared the role with co-founder Ric Moore until July 2024. Before that, Nelson served as COO for five and a half years.
Moore shared his exit on LinkedIn. He said Nelson wanted to lead alone. Records show he steps down as director by December 31, 2025. But he stays on as an advisory board member and major stakeholder. He still holds significant control alongside Nelson.
This shift lets Nelson steer the ship her way. It lines up with the new focus on cozy, handcrafted gaming.
Why Ditch Web3? Listening to the Community
“We tried a path that didn’t fit
Cozy game fans crave rich worlds, deep progression, and safe spaces to unwind. NFTs and web3 do not fit that vibe. Nelson made it clear: “The communities that truly care about cozy games… don’t want NFTs. So we’re closing that chapter completely.”
Web3 spaces often center on earning and bets. That clashes with
Handcrafted Focus: No AI, Just Human Touch
Oxalis explored AI tools but now doubles down on craft. “
The studio has no plans to cut jobs for AI. In a world of quick, auto-made games, human work stands out. This choice builds trust with players who value quality.
Oxalis Games: From Startup to Web3 Bet, Now Back to Basics
Founded in August 2020, Oxalis Games raised eyes fast. In 2022, they scored $4.5 million in seed funding. Lead investor Blocore joined Supercell, Animoca Brands, Griffin Gaming Partners, Sir Ian Livingstone, and Phil Mansell (then Jagex CEO).
Later, in late 2025, another $2 million came from L1D and Arete Capital. These backers love web3. Yet Oxalis now walks away from it. This pivot tests their support but frees the team for pure gaming fun.
What Makes Special?
Without NFTs, no pay-to-win or wallet logins. Just buy once, play forever. Targeting Steam and Epic means wide reach. Demo or wishlist buzz could build hype.
- Relaxing gameplay loops
- Meaningful progression
- Original music and art
- Premium price for premium feel
This fits the cozy boom. Games like Spiritfarer and Unpacking prove demand.
Implications for Web3 Gaming
Oxalis’s move highlights web3 struggles in games. Hype faded after 2021-2022 booms. Players reject forced crypto. Studios like Oxalis Games show traditional paths work better for non-blockchain titles.
Yet blockchain has spots: true ownership in MMOs or collectibles. For cozy escapes? Not so much. Investors may rethink bets on NFT games.
Nelson’s words ring true. Speculation kills immersion. Gamers want joy, not jackpots.
What’s Next for and Oxalis?
Expect updates on Steam. Watch for trailers showing gameplay. With fresh leadership and clear vision, Oxalis builds excitement.
This pivot could inspire others. Indie devs: listen to fans. Craft with heart. Skip trends that don’t fit.
Cozy gaming grows.
Final Thoughts
Oxalis Games proves flexibility wins. Dropping web3 for cozy purity shows guts.
Stay tuned for
