Definition ∞ Player governance is a system within online games, particularly those integrating blockchain technology, where players hold decision-making power over aspects of the game’s development, economy, or rules. This mechanism often involves voting with governance tokens to propose or approve changes. It shifts control from a centralized developer to a decentralized community of participants. This approach aims to foster a more engaged and self-sustaining game ecosystem.
Context ∞ Player governance is a growing trend in blockchain gaming and decentralized autonomous organizations DAOs within the metaverse. News articles frequently report on specific governance proposals, community votes, and their impact on game mechanics or tokenomics. The effectiveness and fairness of these governance structures are often debated, particularly concerning voter participation and potential centralization risks. This model represents a significant departure from traditional game development and publisher control.