Axie Infinity is a popular blockchain-based card battling game where in-game assets, including pets and items, are tradable on the blockchain. This allows players to earn real monetary value while enjoying gameplay. However, getting started requires an initial investment to purchase at least three Axie pets, which are necessary for both Adventure and Arena modes.
As of late 2021, the recommended starting budget was around $1000 USD. This covers the cost of three starter Axies (approximately $400), transfer fees (around $200), and extra operating capital. Due to high transaction fees, especially when transferring from MetaMask to Ronin Wallet, it is advisable to transfer a sufficient amount in one go to avoid multiple costly transactions.
Preparing to Play Axie Infinity
Before you begin, you must set up accounts on a cryptocurrency exchange and create a digital wallet. Browser extensions like MetaMask and Ronin Wallet are highly recommended for ease of use. Always complete identity verification on your chosen exchange platform.
Important Security Note:
Be extremely cautious to avoid phishing websites or fraudulent applications. Never store your account passwords or seed phrases on your computer or in insecure locations. Once cryptocurrency is stolen from a blockchain wallet, it is irrecoverable—no entity or authority can reverse these transactions.
Step-by-Step Transfer Process
The overall fund transfer process involves three main steps:
- Purchasing Ethereum (ETH) on a cryptocurrency exchange.
- Transferring ETH from the exchange to your MetaMask wallet.
- Moving funds from MetaMask to your Ronin Wallet, where ETH is converted to Wrapped ETH (WETH).
1. Purchasing Ethereum (ETH)
In some regions, users may face restrictions when using certain exchanges. For example, in Taiwan, users might prefer the MAX exchange due to limitations with other platforms. Purchase limits may also apply; Binance, for instance, imposes a weekly limit of $500 for credit card purchases.
To purchase ETH:
- Navigate to the "Buy Crypto" section on your exchange.
- Select Ethereum (ETH) as the currency.
- Enter your credit card details and complete the transaction.
- Verify the purchase using SMS and email confirmation codes.
Note that cryptocurrency transactions require network confirmation by miners, so funds may not appear immediately.
2. Transferring ETH to MetaMask Wallet
From your exchange's wallet:
- Locate your ETH balance and select "Withdraw."
- Enter your MetaMask wallet address and ensure the network is set to ERC20.
- Enter the amount you wish to transfer. Consider a test transaction with a small amount first.
- Confirm the transaction and wait for processing to complete.
3. Moving ETH to Ronin Wallet as WETH
- Visit the official Axie Infinity Marketplace and log in.
- Click on "My Account" and select "Deposit to Ronin."
- Paste your Ronin Wallet address (available in the deposit section).
- Confirm the address and approve the transaction in MetaMask.
- Note the transaction fee, which can be significant—often around $100 as of late 2021.
After confirmation, your ETH will be converted to WETH and deposited into your Ronin Wallet.
👉 Explore a step-by-step visual guide to lower-cost transfer methods
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum cost to start playing Axie Infinity?
You need at least three Axies, which cost around $400, plus transfer fees and extra capital. A starting budget of $1000 is recommended to cover all initial expenses.
Why are transaction fees so high?
Blockchain transaction fees depend on network congestion and transfer type. Moving assets between wallets, especially across networks, often involves high gas fees due to computational costs.
Can I use any exchange to buy ETH?
You can use most major exchanges, but ensure it services your region and accepts your payment method. Some players may need to use local exchanges due to regional restrictions.
What is WETH?
Wrapped ETH (WETH) is a tokenized version of Ethereum on the Ronin blockchain. It allows Ethereum to be used seamlessly within the Axie Infinity ecosystem.
Is it safe to store seed phrases digitally?
No. Write down seed phrases on paper and store them offline. Digital storage makes them vulnerable to hacking and theft.
What if I transfer funds to the wrong address?
Transactions are irreversible. Always double-check addresses before confirming transfers. There is no way to recover funds sent to incorrect addresses.