GameStop Eyes Metaverse in Hunt for Ethereum-Based NFT Talent

A trifecta is unfolding in the markets through which GameStop, Ethereum and NFTs are headed for the finish line. Gaming retailer GameStop is one step closer to fulfilling its non-fungible token (NFT) aspirations.

The company has posted a series of job listings on its website featuring NFTs and the blockchain, most notably Ethereum. The job openings range from director of product marketing to product owner and head of Web3 gaming with software engineers sprinkled in between.

GameStop is looking for talent to stay current with all of the trends in the burgeoning NFT space and spot gaming rivals that are looking to do the same. GameStop is specifically looking to hire professionals who have experience with Ethereum and NFTs. In addition, the Web3 job posting states,

“GameStop is looking for a unique individual who can help accelerate the future of gaming and commerce.”

Digital Transformation

GameStop is in the process of transforming its image from a traditional brick-and-mortar retailer to a digital model. Its NFT push is a sign that the company  is eyeing the metaverse, a digital world where gaming and science converge, for expansion.

NFTs and gaming are a natural fit given the popularity of digital collectibles as well as in-game purchases. In addition, GameStop already tipped its hand to its NFT aspirations with the launch of the nft.gamestop.com page, which features the Ethereum logo and a gaming console. On the site, GameStop reveals that it is “building a team” and looking to hire engineers, designers, gamers and more.

In June, GameStop hired Jordan Holberg as its principal engineer. Holberg’s LinkedIn profile says he is “bridging traditional legacy e-commerce and blockchain.”

If I had any actual skills or talent at all beyond being extremely charming and good-looking, this would be the job for me. What an incredible opportunity for an experienced person! Come work with us! It’s a lot of fun! Exclamation point! https://t.co/gTIrzbrBxU

— Jordan Holberg (@eviljordan) October 26, 2021

Ethereum Price

The NFT market has caught on like wildfire and saw sales of $2.5 billion in the first half of this year. This compares to NFT sales of just under $14 million in the year-ago period. Most of the high profile NFT sales have involved Ethereum. For example, Beeple’s famous NFT Everydays: The First 5000 Days sold for $69.3 million and was paid for in Ethereum.

GameStop’s bet on NFTs is bullish for Ethereum, which is holding its own above the $4,000 threshold that it attained in the current bull market cycle. GameStop shares are up 1% on the day.