Episode 55

#52 - Meow or Never: The Purr-fect Play in the Rise of Nyan Heroes, Mecha-Cats & Web3 Gaming with Max Fu

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🎙️ New Podcast Episode: From Surgeon to Web3 Gaming Visionary – A Deep Dive with Max Fu, CEO of Nyan Heroes

In this episode, I sit down with Max Fu, a former gastrointestinal surgical registrar turned Web3 gaming entrepreneur. Max’s story is one of reinvention—people are often shocked to learn that before launching Nyan Heroes, he was on track to become a surgeon. But after years of rigorous medical training, he realized that his true passion lay elsewhere: in technology, gaming, and digital media. That realization set him on a bold new path, one that led him to build one of the fastest-growing digital communities in Australia and, eventually, to revolutionize blockchain gaming.

Now, as CEO of Nyan Heroes, Max is leading a team of AAA gaming veterans from PlayStation, Ubisoft, and Bioware to create a next-generation shooter that blends competitive mech combat with Web3 technology. Under his leadership, the company has raised $10 million in seed funding and is pioneering a new era of player-driven economies and immersive gameplay.

In this episode, we cover:

🔹 How did a surgeon become the CEO of a Web3 gaming studio?

Max walks us through his unconventional journey—from medical school to the surgical training program, and ultimately, to building digital brands with millions of followers before taking on the gaming world.

🔹 What challenges did Max face when breaking into digital media and gaming?

Max had no prior experience in media or entertainment but built a community of over 30 million followers across social platforms. We dive into how he learned everything from scratch—SEO, cinematography, social media, and influencer marketing—before applying those skills to gaming.

🔹 What makes Nyan Heroes different from other Web3 games?

Nyan Heroes isn’t just another play-to-earn game. With high-intensity 6v6 mech battles, customizable Cat Pilots, and a rich sci-fi world, the game is designed to stand on its own, even without blockchain elements. We discuss how they’re balancing AAA-quality gameplay with sustainable Web3 integrations to ensure players are drawn in by fun—not just financial incentives.

🔹 Why is inclusion, innovation, and doing good at the heart of Nyan Heroes’ culture?

As a fully remote studio with team members in over 30 countries, Nyan Heroes has built a culture of mutual respect, teamwork, and inclusivity. Max shares why these values are core to the company’s DNA and how they impact hiring, game development, and community building.

🔹 How is Nyan Heroes supporting real-world causes, including cat rescue efforts?

Beyond gaming, Max and his team are making a real-world impact. The company has already donated $350K to cat rescue organizations and continues to explore ways to use gaming as a force for good.

🔹 What’s next for Web3 gaming, and how will Nyan Heroes continue to innovate?

Max shares his thoughts on the AI revolution, evolving game economies, and the future of blockchain in gaming. He also gives advice to aspiring game developers on staying ahead of tech trends and creating standout experiences in a rapidly changing industry.

With a unique blend of medical precision, entrepreneurial grit, and a deep love for gaming, Max is challenging the perception of what Web3 gaming can be. His vision for Nyan Heroes isn’t just about making a great game—it’s about building an entirely new kind of gaming ecosystem where players, developers, and communities thrive together.

📢 Tune in now to hear Max’s incredible story and get an inside look at the future of Web3 gaming!

Links to Nyan Heroes:

Stay tuned for more episodes as we continue our deep dive into the latest trends and innovations in Web3 gaming. The future is now—let's jump in together! 🎮

Shoutout to my good friend Cheeky Face for making the intro to my podcast. Give him a like, listen and stream.

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About the Podcast

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The Web3 Gamer
Crypto, Blockchain, Technology, Web3, Gaming, Video Games

About your host

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Matthew Simone

Matthew Simone is a passionate outdoorsman, crypto enthusiast, and lifelong gamer. His love for the great outdoors is only matched by his enthusiasm for the digital world. An avid hiker, Matthew finds tranquility and inspiration in nature's grandeur, often using these moments of solitude to contemplate the deeper meaning of life.

Matthew's journey into the world of cryptocurrencies began in 2017, during the significant boom of Bitcoin. Since then, he has immersed himself in the crypto space, staying abreast of the latest developments and trends. His understanding of the market dynamics, blockchain technology, and the potential of decentralized finance has grown exponentially over the years.

Gaming has been a constant in Matthew's life. From his early days playing on his N64 to now exploring the expansive universes of modern MMORPGs, his love for gaming has only deepened. He sees parallels between the gaming and crypto worlds, with both offering vast, unexplored frontiers.

Matthew Simone is a unique blend of an adventurer and a digital pioneer. His passion for the outdoors, crypto, and gaming makes him a fascinating individual, always ready to explore new trails, whether they're in the wilderness or the digital world.

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