OpenSea Pauses XP Airdrop Reward System Amid Community Backlash
OpenSea faces backlash from users regarding its new airdrop reward system following the launch of its OS2 beta marketplace on January 28, 2025. Key issues include:
- The points-based system prioritizes fee generation over genuine engagement.
- Critics argue it does not support developers and encourages wash trading.
- Long-time users feel neglected, particularly those with high trading volumes lacking specific NFTs.
- Notably, NFT influencer Wale termed the mechanics as "Blur farming on steroids."
In response to the criticism, OpenSea co-founder Devin Finzer announced a pause on XP rewards for listing and bidding activities. The focus will shift to XP shipments aimed at enhancing user participation and addressing concerns.
OpenSea's attempt to mimic competitors like Blur may have affected its market position, but responsiveness to community feedback could help recover user trust.