Featured Image Credit: Axie Infinity
Axie Infinity has changed significantly since its explosive popularity in 2021. While many players originally joined because of its play-to-earn model, today’s game focuses more on competitive gameplay, collecting Axies, and building your account over time.
If you’re thinking about starting Axie Infinity in 2026, this guide covers everything you need to know—from creating your first team to understanding how players can still earn rewards.
What Is Axie Infinity?
Axie Infinity is a blockchain-based strategy game developed by Sky Mavis. Players collect fantasy creatures called Axies and use them to battle opponents in turn-based card battles.
Every Axie has its own:
- Class
- Stats
- Skills
- Body parts
- Runes and Charms (in Origins)
Building a balanced team and making smart decisions during battles are the keys to winning.
Do You Need to Buy Axies to Play?
Not anymore.
One of the biggest improvements to Axie Infinity: Origins is that new players can begin with free Starter Axies, allowing anyone to learn the game before purchasing NFT Axies.
If you enjoy the game and want to participate in the blockchain economy, you can later purchase NFT Axies through the official marketplace.
How to Start Playing
Getting started is simple.
Step 1
Create an Axie Infinity account and install Axie Infinity: Origins on your preferred platform.
Step 2
Complete the tutorial to learn the game’s mechanics.
Step 3
Play using the free Starter Axies while learning different classes and strategies.
Step 4
Once you’re comfortable with the game, you can decide whether to purchase NFT Axies to participate in the player-driven economy.
Understanding the Gameplay
Axie Infinity: Origins uses a turn-based card battle system.
Each Axie has unique abilities that consume energy during battle. Success depends on:
- Building a balanced team.
- Managing your energy efficiently.
- Predicting your opponent’s moves.
- Combining cards strategically.
As you improve, you’ll unlock stronger runes, charms, and progression systems for your Axies.
Game Modes
Arena
Compete against other players in ranked PvP battles.
Winning matches improves your ranking and helps your Axies gain experience.
Adventure
Battle AI-controlled enemies while learning the game’s mechanics and progressing through the story.
Missions
Daily and weekly missions reward players with useful resources, including Moon Shards and upgrade materials.
Can You Still Earn Money Playing Axie Infinity?
Yes—but not in the same way players did during the 2021 boom.
Today, earning depends on several factors, including your skill level, the value of in-game assets, and current market conditions. Earnings are generally much lower and should not be considered guaranteed income.
Some ways players may earn include:
- Selling NFT Axies.
- Trading Axies on the marketplace.
- Earning and trading SLP.
- Competing for seasonal rewards.
- Staking AXS tokens.
- Trading collectible assets.
What Is SLP?
Smooth Love Potion (SLP) remains one of Axie Infinity’s primary utility tokens.
Today, SLP is used for several in-game systems, including crafting runes and charms, while also remaining part of the Axie ecosystem. Players can claim eligible SLP through the official Axie portal.
Are Scholarships Still Popular?
Scholarship programs still exist within some communities, but they are far less common than they were during Axie Infinity’s peak in 2021.
Since new players can now use free Starter Axies, scholarships are no longer the primary way to begin playing.
Tips for Beginners
If you’re just getting started, these tips can help:
- Learn the different Axie classes before buying NFTs.
- Play with the free Starter Axies first.
- Complete daily and weekly missions.
- Focus on improving your gameplay instead of expecting quick profits.
- Stay updated with balance changes and new seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Axie Infinity free to play?
Yes. Axie Infinity: Origins allows new players to start using free Starter Axies before purchasing NFT Axies.
Can you still earn money from Axie Infinity?
Yes, but earnings depend on your skill, market conditions, and the value of in-game assets. Players should view Axie Infinity as a game first rather than a guaranteed source of income.
Do I need NFT Axies immediately?
No. You can learn the game with free Starter Axies before deciding whether to invest in NFT Axies.
Is Axie Infinity still worth playing?
If you enjoy strategy games, collecting NFTs, and turn-based PvP battles, Axie Infinity continues to receive updates through Origins and remains one of the most recognized blockchain games available.
Final Thoughts
Axie Infinity is very different from the game that became famous during the play-to-earn boom of 2021. Instead of focusing solely on earning cryptocurrency, today’s experience emphasizes strategic gameplay, long-term progression, and collecting digital assets.
The ability to start with free Starter Axies makes it easier than ever for new players to learn the game before deciding whether to invest in NFT Axies or participate in the blockchain economy.
