The game development studio Bright Star Studios announced the closure of Ember Sword on May 22, 2025, impacting the GameFi sector and raising concerns about blockchain gaming’s long-term viability. The shutdown, which came after the game failed to secure additional funding, leaves a trail of stranded investors and raises doubts about the sustainability of projects based on virtual land sales and other Ethereum-based mechanics. 2021 saw Ember Sword raise over $203 million through Ethereum-powered virtual land sales, attracting prominent investors such as Dr Disrespect, Kevin Lin, and Rob Pardo, whose contributions remain a point of speculation amidst this sudden closure.