Last week, gaming giant Sony, the maker of PlayStation, filed a patent that would allow players throughout its ecosystem to transfer and use “digital assets” or NFTs between gaming platforms.

While the Web3 space has seen a variety of crossovers in terms of franchises and TradGaming engines like Unreal exploring the space –there have yet to be any console makers to fully integrate the tech into their offerings, setting Sony up to possibly be the first to do so.

The patent specifically outlines the ability to transfer in-game assets between devices, meaning in theory a user could transfer these digital items between tablets, computers, smartphones, and potentially even virtual reality (VR) setups.

Another interesting aspect of the patent is that it mentioned cross-generational transfers of NFTs, meaning that digital assets from the PS4 could theoretically be transferred to the PS5 and beyond. This would create an opportunity for cherished digital collectibles to be enjoyed for longer periods, versus traditionally being left behind on a console’s hard drive as new iterations are released.

Sony also lays out how the framework might be used for NFTs that are earned through achievements and tournaments, explaining that “in some example embodiments, the task may include a victory in an esports tournament and the digital asset may be usable via the NFT by the first end-user entity across plural different computer simulations.”

Possibly the most interesting aspect of the framework includes notes on interoperability, which could bring traditional competitors like Xbox together as collaborators through the ability to operate with any “cloud-based video game.”

No matter where you look, it would appear that TradGaming is warming up to the idea of utilizing the blockchain, with interest from gamers also steadily growing. Whether it’s seen in participation by pro gamers like Mongraal who won BAYC’s Dookey Dash, or from icons like Dr Disrespect who just launched his own NFT-integrated game — a new era does seem to be here and console makers are taking note.

In other news, Magic Eden continues its multi-chain ambitions with launch of Bitcoin marketplace.