Highstreet is a metaverse project that combines retail and gaming, allowing users to purchase assets, own virtual real estate, and participate in governance. It's a decentralised commerce-centric play-to-earn metaverse built with virtual reality (VR) support, offering a "phygital" experience by enabling users to explore the metaverse, engage in quests, and acquire goods that have both digital and real-world utility.
Highstreet operates by tokenizing physical items into fractional NFTs, integrating with platforms like Shopify to facilitate transactions between virtual and physical stores. The platform consists of dynamic environments constructed of hexagonal tiles, enabling users to engage in immersive VR experiences. The underlying technology utilises the Ethereum and Binance Coin blockchains, employing smart contracts for governance and in-game transactions.
Highstreet has several potential use cases including serving as an in-game currency for purchasing items and real estate, staking for rewards and governance participation, tokenizing physical products into NFTs, and providing a seamless transition from virtual to physical commerce through Shopify integration. It aims to create new e-commerce and retail experiences, offering a platform for influencer-led brand expansions.
Highstreet was originally founded as LumiereVR in 2015 by Travis Wu and Jenny Guo, focusing on VR retail. It was rebranded to Highstreet, integrating with Shopify and partnering with major brands like Balenciaga and LVMH. In 2021, strategic investments were made by Binance and Animoca Brands. The project evolved into a play-to-earn metaverse incorporating shopping, gaming, and NFTs, with a focus on blending commerce and immersive gaming experiences.