Crypto is shaking up the entertainment world, giving people new ways to pay for fun activities. With more than 560 million people around the world now owning cryptocurrencies as of 2024, it’s no surprise that the entertainment industry is taking note. If you’re into gaming, streaming, live events, or exploring the metaverse, crypto offers fast and flexible payment options as more platforms accept digital currencies. Here are some ways you can make the most of your crypto while enjoying your favorite pastimes.
Online Gambling
Online casinos have been among the earliest adopters of cryptocurrency. Some of the best crypto casinos now accept Bitcoin, Ethereum, and even stablecoins like Tether, offering faster transactions, better security, and enhanced privacy than traditional gambling sites. Additionally, these sites cater to players who prefer an anonymous experience with fast deposits, quick withdrawals, and hassle-free transactions that make everything more convenient.
This rapid expansion in the global online gambling market reflects crypto’s growing popularity. According to Grand View Research, the global online gambling market was valued at $63.53 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach $153.57 billion by 2030. Most of this growth is being driven by crypto transactions, as they allow players to bypass intemediaries and enjoy borderless gaming experiences.
Gaming and E-sports
The gaming industry is one of the biggest adopters of crypto. Gamers are cashing in on the play-to-earn games, earning crypto rewards simply by playing. Some tournaments like Axie Infinity World Championship allow players to earn real crypto rewards, offering prize pools in Bitcoin and Ethereum. Players can earn tokens such as Smooth Love Potion (SLP) and Axie Infinity Shards (AXS), which can be traded or used within the game’s ecosystem.
Innovative reward systems like these draw players from across the globe, building a worldwide gaming community.
Streaming Services and Digital Content
Big names like Netflix and Spotify don’t accept crypto directly, but you can still use it to buy gift cards through services like BitPay and CoinGate. However, decentralised platforms such as Theta Network are changing the game. Users can stream content and earn cryptocurrency rewards, such as TFUEL tokens, by watching and sharing streams.
You can also support your favorite YouTubers by sending cryptocurrency donations through QR codes or platforms like NOWPayments.
Buying Event Tickets
Want to use crypto for concerts or sports events? Many organizers now accept it. BitPay lets you buy tickets with Bitcoin, and Ticketmaster has tested blockchain-based ticketing to prevent scalping. GET Protocol also uses blockchain to create secure, fraud-proof tickets.
NFT-based tickets are another big trend, granting VIP access, backstage meet-and-greets, or exclusive merchandise. Some festivals and events even provide special rewards for crypto payments, such as early ticket access, discounts, or exclusive content related to the event. For example, Breakaway Music Festival is accepting cryptocurrency for ticket purchases and Ultra VIP bottle service for its 2025 events, making it easier for fans to pay with digital assets.
The metaverse is taking entertainment to a whole new level. Platforms like Decentraland and The Sandbox let users buy virtual land, attend digital concerts, and even visit virtual casinos—all using crypto. Some artists, like Snoop Dogg, have hosted exclusive metaverse concerts where fans can buy NFT-based tickets.
Movies and Cinemas
Even traditional entertainment, like movie theatres and cinemas, is embracing crypto. AMC Theatres accepts various cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Dogecoin, and Shiba Inu, for movie tickets and concessions via their mobile app or online through platforms like Bitcoin. Younger, crypto-savvy audiences have embraced the idea, enjoying more options to spend their digital assets.
Buying Digital Content
Crypto is making waves in the digital content space, giving fans new ways to access and own their favorite media. BitPay lets users buy movies and music with Bitcoin, and NFTs are revolutionizing digital ownership. Artists like Kings of Leon have embraced NFTs to release albums, providing fans with exclusive content and collectibles. As a fan, you can use crypto to buy these albums as NFTs, unlocking special perks and a unique way to support the band.
Crypto Cashback and Rewards
If you’re spending crypto on entertainment, why not earn some back? Crypto.com and Binance offer cashback on gaming, subscriptions, and even movie tickets. Crypto.com gives cashback rewards for gaming and entertainment purchases. You can earn up to 5% back in CRO tokens when you spend on gaming platforms, subscriptions, or entertainment services. So, if you use Crypto.com to buy in-game items, gaming subscriptions, or even movie tickets, you’ll get a percentage of what you spent back in CRO tokens.
Travel and Hospitality
Planning to go on holiday? Crypto can help there too. Travala.com allows users to book hotels and flights through Binance Pay and other cryptocurrencies, offering fast and secure payments without the hassle of traditional banking delays or high fees. Some restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues are also starting to accept crypto, with a few even offering discounts for digital payments. For instance, the House of VR in Toronto accepts Bitcoin as payment, blending virtual reality experiences with a bar and lounge setting.
Subscriptions and Memberships
For those who want to enjoy entertainment without worrying about security, you can use cryptocurrency to pay for services. For example, many VPN providers like NordVPN and ExpressVPN let you pay with Bitcoin. Using crypto, you can keep your online activities private while accessing your favorite content, ensuring a safer streaming experience.
Conclusion
Crypto is changing the way we pay for entertainment, making it easier, faster, and in some cases, more rewarding. Whether you’re buying event tickets, streaming content, or diving into the metaverse, digital currencies offer exciting new possibilities. As adoption grows, expect even more ways to use crypto for fun in the future.
Related
Dutch
English
French
Italian
Portuguese
Spanish
Discussion about this post