Sparq is launching Crown U, an innovative collegiate sports game that integrates AI, blockchain technology, and more to transform the development and marketing of mobile sports games. Crown U is a proprietary mobile gaming publishing and acquisition platform, and Sparq has announced that it has begun pre-production on its inaugural title, Crown U, which will showcase collegiate sports trademarks and the name, image, and likeness (NIL) of top male and female athletes in the college sports arena. This dynamic, multiplayer game will feature real college athletes, teams, and stadiums, offering thrilling cross-sport competitions. In contrast to traditional sports simulations, Crown U combines engaging, skill-based gameplay with the lively atmosphere found in party knockout games like Fall Guys, according to the company. In a distinctive approach, the Sparq team applied their advanced, proprietary AI methods to determine the game's genre, subgenre, mechanics, and economic features. Additionally, an optional blockchain-enabled rewards program allows fans to earn incentives through cryptocurrency tokens and digital assets in the off-game Sparq Locker Room. The company describes it as a sophisticated integration of Web2 and Web3 gaming features. Sparq's publishing and acquisition team brings years of experience from working on some of the most esteemed intellectual properties, having previously contributed to projects for Lord of the Rings, Marvel Comics, Dungeons & Dragons, Game of Thrones, Madden NFL, and over 25 other major gaming titles. Their veteran-led, proprietary gamer acquisition engine is enhanced by AI-driven support and various user acquisition tools and applications. “Our skilled team is intentionally merging blockchain technology with our unique AI approach to mobile game publishing and acquisition, aiming to connect dedicated college sports fans globally with university brands and the rich traditions, excitement, and experiences that make college sports truly one-of-a-kind, ” stated Jan Horsfall, CEO and co-founder of Sparq Games. Through this partnership, Sparq will assist U. S. universities, such as the University of Utah, in monetizing their dedicated fan bases.

The company plans to reach over 700 universities and integrate NIL gaming features for more than 100, 000 collegiate athletes. Athletes will receive compensation through a blockchain back-end that ensures comprehensive record-keeping of activities is available for verification of NCAA compliance by each athlete and university. “While established brands like EA Sports primarily concentrate on console gaming, Sparq is deeply committed to fast-paced, entertaining gameplay in the mobile sector, engaging the world’s most dedicated fan base, " said Jeffrey Steefel, head of games at Sparq. "More than 65% of Americans over 12 have a favorite college sports team, and the level of fan engagement in college sports surpasses that of FIFA, NFL, NBA, MLB, F1, or the Olympics. Our team possesses extensive experience in delivering IP-based fan engagement through games. ” Sparq is committed to empowering athletes globally by developing exceptional, engaging sports games that entertain both gamers and fans while providing financial support to the athletes involved. "In simple terms, Sparq's success will enable thousands of college athletes to benefit financially from the use of their names and images in a variety of video games. We aim to launch up to ten mobile games on our publishing and acquisition platform by the end of 2029. With five out of six founding team members being former college athletes, we bring valuable insights into achieving this goal, ” Horsfall concluded.