Proof of Run: A Fair and Sustainable Blockchain Consensus Protocol Based on Game Theory in DApps

As the metaverse and blockchain technology evolve, electronic-gaming decentralized applications (DApps) have gained popularity. With blockchain technology providing a foundational consensus protocol, DApps benefit from assured asset ownership and secure transactions, essential for their stable functionality. However, existing consensus protocols within DApps often result in wealth concentration and inequality. Moreover, the disconnect between mining and playing means miners might abandon the electronic game if their revenues fail to meet expectations, consequently hindering player retention and overall DApps growth. This paper proposes Proof of Run, a fair and sustainable consensus protocol based on Game Theory. Specifically, we divide mining behavior into two types and make miners compete through Game Theory to avoid concentration of wealth. This approach enhances randomness in validator selection, promoting a more equitable distribution of mining opportunities. Furthermore, we propose a shift from the traditional workload to the energy consumed by running, thus coupling the miner’s mining behavior with the running. Through analyzing optimal strategy combinations and conducting experimental analysis, our scheme demonstrates enhanced fairness and feasibility compared to existing consensus protocols applied to DApps.