The Spark Token

With the implementation of the so called Bellini 1 Update on May 25th Upland has initiated the next phase of gameplay. Starting with closed beta players are now able to create buildings on their properties via staking the new resource token named Spark.

As a first step a selected group of players is granted access to the new features to test if the transactions are verified correctly by Upland’s nodes and the EOS blockchain. Upland has not published the selection criteria but mentioned that veteran players will get the chance to become early testers. You might remember the test version of Spark which was called Spud. The mechanisms of building structures with Spud are nearly the same as the ones with the Spark token.

Upland added a new color options and also an enhanced graphics mode which greatly improves the design of structures. Futhermore players will be able to view their finished constructions in their NFT asset wallet. Every structure on a property does represent a unique NFT on the EOS blockchain. These NFTs are connected to the property and can’t be removed. In case the property owner wants to build a different structure the previous one has to be demolished first. Furthermore, they are Upland-only NFTs which means you can’t sell them on third marketplaces. 

Spark staking feature

The Spark exchange is still in development but players can already test one of the upcoming features namely staking. Once a player has started the construction process of a structure other players might click on it and stake stake Spark tokens towards this structure which will 

Google authenticator has finally arrived

Upland has implemented the use of the well-known Google authenticator as new security feature which players might use as an alternative to the SMS two-factor authentication. This is a great addition as the Google authenticator does not rely on the mobile phone provider to work. You only need your mobile which will generate a unique and temporary code. It is strongly recommended to switch your settings to Google’s authenticator because it makes your account safer than relying on unencrypted SMS.

The Bellini 1 Update included:

• The Spark Token (USPK)
• The Structure NFT (UNFT)
• Enhanced Graphics Mode
• Expanded Coloring Options
• Collaborative Construction Structure
• NFTs in Asset Wallet
• Google Auth Support

Future Outlook

Property development represents a major step into Upand’s metaverse where players are able to rebuild the world. I will be happy to see a numerious of styles and structures that will switch Upland’s neighborhoods from a boring 2D perspective into a lively 3D world. Upland’s head of community X1TheGamer mentioned that businesses and private residencies are currently in the development pipeline as well as new structure designs and unique landmark structures for the owners of Upland’s landmarks.