Ethereum NFT project Goblintown tested players with its brutally difficult driving platformer – but no eligible contestant could complete it to win the grand prize.
The Impossible $10,000 Challenge
Ethereum NFT project Goblintown hosted a 3-day pop-up event in New York’s Union Square, showcasing its upcoming “Really Hard Driving Game” ahead of its April 30 release. The challenge? Complete the game on your first try to win $10,000. Result? Every contestant failed.
Gameplay That Crushed All Challengers
Modeled after notoriously difficult platformers like Getting Over It and Only Up, the game requires precise navigation of a Goblintown vehicle through deadly obstacle courses where any mistake means instant failure. During the event: – Hundreds attempted daily from a branded truck – One player finished in 26:12 but was ineligible (previous tester) – Closest eligible contestant reached 90% completion (won a Steam Deck) – Majority of players were non-crypto natives drawn by the eye-catching setup
Strategic Gaming Approach
Despite its NFT origins, the game contains no crypto elements, enabling Steam and Epic Games Store releases. As Goblintown co-founder Alex Taub (AJT) explained: “We focused on making a fun game anyone would play – not just crypto people… Web3 won’t save a bad game.” The team plans future digital collectibles but prioritized core gameplay first.
Roadshow Plans and Industry Reactions
The NYC event served as a test run for an upcoming U.S. conference tour (PAX East to DreamHack). Crypto gaming influencer Kyroh predicted viral success: “If this doesn’t become the next Only Up, I’ll be surprised.” The game launches April 30 on Steam and Epic Games Store.