Axie Infinity is an adventure fighting game where you collect, breed and battle pets. It's a play-to-earn game which means that players can earn (crypto) currency by doing well in the game. Although you need to be 18 to play the game, it may be on younger children's radar as well, due to the Pokemon style battles and Adopt Me pet breeding.

To play the game you first need to set up a digital wallet (Ronin) account with real money. You then use this to purchase and sell your digital Axie pets in the game. You aim to turn a profit by adding value to your Axie pets by winning battles and breeding.

The battles are skill-based and highly competitive. Although cartoony, they are designed with an esports feel and modular design so different play styles can be added over time. There are thousands of Axies in the game, each with different abilities and appearances that arise from the complex genetics system employed each time to breed to creatures.

Each pet in the game is unique. They are what is known as non-fungible tokens (NFTs). When they purchase or breed a pet in the game the player owns the unique URL describing it and exclusive access to that unique creature in the game.

Progress in the game focuses on gaining Smooth Love Potion (SLP) or Axie (AXS) tokens. You earn SLP by playing the adventure, winning arena matches and completing daily quests. You need SLP if you want to breed your Axies so must work to build up enough.

You gain AXS tokens by purchasing them, selling your Axies or finding tokens in the game. It's this AXS which is the digital currency. You can sell this for other real-world currencies, and while you hold it you have a say in how the game develops.

The result is a game that offers popular gameplay of collection, customisation and battling. Here though, the wins and loses have a real world value. As you can see below, despite appearances, it's a game for adults.