The rise of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) has paved the way for a new era of digital ownership and creativity. As these projects evolve, many are bridging the gap between NFTs and cryptocurrency by launching their own tokens. These tokens enhance utility, reward communities, and expand ecosystems, creating value for NFT holders and crypto enthusiasts alike. Here’s a look at three standout NFT projects that successfully launched tokens and reshaped the landscape of Web3.

1. Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) – APE Token

• Launch Year: 2022
• Blockchain: Ethereum
• About BAYC:
  The Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) is one of the most iconic NFT collections, known for its exclusive membership and high-profile celebrity holders like Eminem, Snoop Dogg, and Steph Curry. BAYC has consistently pushed boundaries with innovative initiatives and ecosystem expansions.
• The Token:
  BAYC introduced APE Coin (APE) as its governance and utility token. APE allows holders to participate in decentralized governance and access exclusive ecosystem features. It’s also used as a medium of exchange within the broader BAYC ecosystem, including games and metaverse platforms.
• Impact:

• APE Coin quickly gained traction, with major exchanges like Binance and Coinbase listing the token.
• The token fueled the development of ApeCoin DAO, empowering the BAYC community to vote on key project decisions.
• APE also became the primary currency for ApeChain, BAYC’s Layer 2 solution, launched in October 2024.

• Why It Matters:
  BAYC’s successful token launch demonstrated how an NFT project could create a thriving ecosystem with both digital and real-world value.

2. Pudgy Penguins – PENGU Token

• Launch Year: 2024 (Planned)
• Blockchain: Solana
• About Pudgy Penguins:
  Pudgy Penguins has emerged as a community-focused NFT collection celebrated for its creativity and inclusivity. Known for its vibrant community and global reach, the project has expanded into physical merchandise, social media campaigns, and now, a dedicated cryptocurrency.
• The Token:
  Pudgy Penguins announced PENGU, a Solana-based token with a total supply of 88,888,888,888 tokens. PENGU is designed to enhance community engagement by offering utility within the Pudgy Penguins ecosystem, including governance participation, rewards, and access to exclusive perks.
• Anticipated Impact:

• PENGU aims to bring millions of fans, including those outside of crypto, into the Pudgy Penguins universe.
• It is expected to play a key role in the project’s upcoming Layer 2 solution, Abstract, which may integrate both Solana and Ethereum-based assets.
• By aligning with Solana, Pudgy Penguins leverages low fees and scalability, broadening its ecosystem’s accessibility.

• Why It Matters:
  Pudgy Penguins demonstrates how NFTs and tokens can bridge the gap between Web3 innovation and mainstream audiences, creating a comprehensive brand experience.

3. Doodles – DOODLE Token

• Launch Year: 2023
• Blockchain: Ethereum
• About Doodles:
  Doodles is a colorful, community-driven NFT collection that has gained widespread recognition for its playful aesthetic and interactive experiences. The project has focused on creating a multidimensional brand, blending NFTs with entertainment, art, and technology.
• The Token:
  Doodles launched the DOODLE token to power its growing ecosystem. DOODLE enables holders to participate in governance, unlock exclusive content, and engage in platform-specific activities like games and metaverse events.
• Impact:

• The DOODLE token introduced a reward system for community contributions, such as promoting the project or creating fan art.
• It became the primary currency within Doodles 2, a platform offering customizable NFT experiences.
• DOODLE tokens have helped fund collaborations with prominent artists and entertainers, elevating the brand’s global appeal.

• Why It Matters:
  Doodles’ token launch highlights how NFTs can evolve into broader entertainment ecosystems, creating lasting value for holders.

Conclusion: The Future of NFT Tokens

The launch of tokens by NFT projects like BAYC, Pudgy Penguins, and Doodles showcases the transformative potential of combining NFTs with cryptocurrency. These tokens offer utility, governance, and rewards, fostering deeper engagement within their respective communities.

As more NFT projects follow suit, tokens will continue to bridge the gap between digital collectibles and Web3 innovation, shaping the future of decentralized ecosystems. For investors and enthusiasts, these token launches signal exciting opportunities to participate in the next wave of blockchain-powered creativity.