The Miami Dolphins have entered into a new sponsorship agreement with NFL Rivals, the first NFT mobile game licensed by the National Football League (NFL). As part of this partnership, NFL Rivals will feature in-stadium branding and offer fans sweepstake opportunities to win VIP experiences during the Miami Dolphins’ home games throughout the season.
This collaboration aligns with NFL Rivals’ strategy to expand its user base in anticipation of the upcoming NFL season kick-off. Developed by Mythical Games, the mobile game integrates non-fungible tokens (NFTs) to create a unique gaming experience. Mythical Games employs blockchain technology to empower players, creators, artists, and developers to participate as stakeholders and owners within the gaming ecosystem.
The game has already garnered significant attention, boasting over 2 million downloads and more than 15 million games played. Mythical Games, led by a team of veterans from the gaming industry who contributed to the success of titles like Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, and Marvel Strike Force, is focused on merging NFTs and gaming in innovative ways.
John Linden, the CEO of Mythical Games, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with the Miami Dolphins, a renowned NFL franchise. He emphasized the potential for this collaboration to introduce new and engaging interactions for fans, particularly in a region known for its tech and crypto influence.
Katharine Bohlmann, Vice President of Corporate Partnerships at the Miami Dolphins, highlighted the team’s recognition of the evolving gaming landscape. She expressed optimism about leveraging this partnership to adapt to the changing dynamics of the gaming industry and enhance fan engagement.
In June 2023, Mythical Games secured $37 million in funding led by Scytale Digital, with participation from notable investors including ARK Invest and a16z. The company also launched its gaming superchain on Polkadot in April, positioning itself to compete against other gaming platforms.
By combining the popularity of NFL Rivals with the Miami Dolphins’ fan base and stadium presence, this partnership exemplifies the increasing convergence of sports, NFTs, and gaming in today’s entertainment landscape.