NYC’s iconic Times Square will now have an address in the metaverse. TimePieces, the NFT initiative from Time Magazine, has struck a deal with The Sandbox metaverse to finalise the development. The Sandbox is a virtual gaming world where people build, own, and monetise their gaming experiences in the Ethereum blockchain. This virtual representation of the Times Square in The Sandbox metaverse is intended to serve as a culture and commerce centre, inspired by one of New York City’s most vibrant areas.
Time President Keith A. Grossman has put out a call for virtual architects to participate in designing its digital avatar.
“Since launching TimePieces in September 2021, we have focused on developing a community in Web3 that benefited from the incredible 100-year legacy and access Time has established,” Grossman said in a blog-post, expressing ‘thrill’ at this development.
Holders of TimePieces NFTs will be offered special rewards in the metaverse version of the Times Square. These include virtual access to discussions, events, screenings of Time Studios projects as well as educational experiences.
“The Sandbox is often viewed as a ‘virtual Manhattan’, a vibrant space alive with culture, entertainment, and brands. By partnering with TIME, we’re adding TimePieces as the beating heart and soul of this virtual Manhattan,” said Sebastien Borget, Chief Operating Officer and Co-Founder of The Sandbox, commenting on the partnership.
Meanwhile, the metaverse industry, as a whole, is witnessing expansion and adoption in several parts of the world.