On January 12, 2026, Animoca Brands, a leader in digital entertainment and blockchain gaming, announced a strategic partnership with the global esports organization Team Secret. The collaboration centers on the integration of the CHECK token (CHECK) into Team Secret's competitive ecosystem, marking a significant step in the convergence of esports and Web3.
The partnership was unveiled through the Checkmate Ecosystem, a gaming network focused on community-owned strategy games utilizing blockchain technology. As part of the deal, Team Secret will launch a Web3 Membership NFT Pass. Holders of this NFT will gain exclusive benefits, including access to community tournaments, VIP ticket opportunities for global esports tours, and private AMA sessions with players from Team Secret's rosters in games like Dota 2, VALORANT, and Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege.
Furthermore, Team Secret will adopt the CHECK token as a payment and participation token across its operations, applicable towards merchandise and other fan engagement activities. This move is designed to enhance esports monetization and create new avenues for fan interaction through token-based utilities.
Yat Siu, Co-founder and Executive Chairman of Animoca Brands, commented on the broader vision, stating, "I envision a future where regulatory clarity in 2026 paves the way for significant growth in real-world assets and tokenization." The initiative aligns with Animoca's strategic goals for 2026 and its reputation for driving digital asset innovation in the gaming sector.
While the immediate financial impact on broader cryptocurrency markets is unspecified, the partnership is seen as a potential trendsetter, possibly encouraging other esports organizations to explore similar cryptocurrency integrations within their operational frameworks.
