Future Trends in Cryptocurrency: Key Players and Insights


Intro
The world of cryptocurrency has lived through a whirlwind of evolution, from the birth of Bitcoin to the explosion of thousands of altcoins. The increasing popularity of digital currencies has ignited interest across various sectors, especially among investors, tech enthusiasts, and analysts. As we peer into the future, itβs clear that understanding the next dominant cryptocurrency is not just a matter of curiosity but of strategic importance.
Emerging technologies, market dynamics, and regulatory frameworks are crucial elements shaping this landscape. It's not only about the buzz surrounding existing coins but also about the foundational shifts that are quietly taking place. This article delves into the trends steering the future of digital assets, offering insights that might help investors and tech aficionados navigate this complex arena.
Key Trends in Cryptocurrency
Current Market Analysis
The cryptocurrency market has shown significant fluctuations over the years. In early 2021, Bitcoin peaked at an incredible price, creating ripples across financial markets. Yet, a closer look reveals that other cryptocurrencies like Ethereum, Binance Coin, and Solana have emerged as formidable contenders. This growing diversification hints at a shifting paradigm, where investor focus transcends beyond the well-known giants.
- Market Capitalization Trends: Bitcoin may still command the largest market cap, but the rise of altcoins showcases a broader acceptance of varied digital tokens. Ethereum is making waves due to its smart contract capabilities, which have revolutionized decentralized applications.
- Adoption Rates: More institutions are adopting cryptocurrency as part of their treasury strategies. Companies like Tesla and MicroStrategy have added Bitcoin to their portfolios, and this trend is likely to grow, bringing legitimacy to the field.
This dynamic landscape is not just limited to rise in values; it also includes challenges connected to volatility and regulatory scrutiny that loom over digital currencies.
Emerging Technologies Shaping Crypto
Innovations in technology play a pivotal role in shaping the future of cryptocurrency.
- Blockchain Upgrades: The evolution of blockchain technology itself is crucial. Upgrades in networks, like Ethereum 2.0, aim to improve scalability and security, making them more appealing for wider use beyond just currency.
- Interoperability Solutions: We are witnessing solutions that aim to connect different blockchain networks. Protocols that enable interoperability will likely become a cornerstone for the future, paving the way for seamless transactions across various digital environments.
- Decentralized Finance (DeFi): DeFi platforms offer financial services using smart contract technology, providing alternatives to traditional finance. This sector is burgeoning, and understanding its implications is essential for investors looking to get ahead in the game.
Educational Insights
Understanding Blockchain Fundamentals
Before diving into investment opportunities, one must comprehend the underlying technology that powers cryptocurrenciesβblockchain. In simple terms, blockchain is a decentralized ledger that records all transactions across a network.
- Transparency and Security: Transactions are transparent and immutable, reducing the likelihood of fraud.
- Smart Contracts: These are programmable contracts that execute automatically when specific conditions are met, facilitating transactions without intermediaries.
Navigating Crypto Investments Safely
Investing in cryptocurrencies can be akin to navigating a minefield filled with both opportunities and challenges. Here are some tips to ensure a sound approach:
- Conduct Thorough Research: Understanding market trends and specific technologies can guide investment decisions.
- Diversification is Key: Just like traditional investments, diversifying across several cryptocurrencies can help manage risk.
- Stay Updated on Regulations: Keep an eye on the evolving regulatory landscape, as changes can impact market stability.
"The landscape of cryptocurrency is like the wild westβit's fast, unpredictable, and full of potential treasures, but it's crucial to tread lightly and with knowledge."
As we stand on the precipice of a new chapter in cryptocurrency, these insights will not only aid understanding but encourage informed decision-making. Understanding the trends, technologies, and essentials will empower those interested in this rapidly-evolving digital frontier.
For more information, visit these resources:
As we continue our exploration, the next sections will illuminate the intersection of these insights with market movements, setting the stage for future developments.
Prolusion to Cryptocurrency Evolution
In todayβs world, cryptocurrency has evolved from a niche digital curiosity to a pivotal element in the global financial landscape. This section shines a light on the evolution of cryptocurrency. Understanding it is crucial for investors, tech enthusiasts, and educators alike, as it lays the groundwork for grasping why the next significant cryptocurrency could potentially emerge as a market leader.
The journey began with Bitcoin, introduced in 2009 by the mysterious Satoshi Nakamoto, which sparked a revolution. Not only did it provide as a decentralized alternative to traditional currencies, but it also opened the floodgates for numerous other cryptocurrencies. Such variations often referred to as altcoins, each typically offering something different, whether in terms of technology, function, or community.
Now, cryptocurrencies have morphed into platforms that enable everything from peer-to-peer transactions to complex decentralized applications. There's much to consider when diving into this broad domain:
- Technology: The underlying blockchain technology has made cryptocurrencies more secure and transparent.
- Investing and Trading: Investors now have a range of options, making the market dynamic but also complex.
- Regulatory Considerations: With increased adoption, governments are grappling with how to regulate this space appropriately.
By architects of modern finance, cryptocurrencies provide the groundwork for future financial systems that could redefine how we transact. Knowing the evolution is not just about historical facts; itβs about recognizing how these digital currencies might shape investment strategies and economic policies moving forward.
Brief History of Cryptocurrencies
Cryptocurrencyβs narrative is colorful and rich. Itβs fascinating to see how a simple concept captured the imagination of many. Bitcoin was the first and laid the groundwork by introducing the concept of decentralized currency. Several years later, innovations birthed Ethereum, a trailblazer in smart contracts and decentralized applications.
From 2010 onwards, countless cryptocurrencies emerged, each promising to solve specific issues. Litecoin aimed to process transactions faster, while Ripple sought to improve international money transfers.


Hereβs a brief timeline to illustrate this:
- 2009: Bitcoin is unleashed into the world.
- 2011: Litecoin is developed, bringing faster transaction times.
- 2015: Ethereum appears, revolutionizing contracts with its smart technology.
- 2020: The rise of DeFi platforms begins, drastically altering financial services.
This history showcases the creative energy that underpins the cryptocurrency space, making it an exciting realm filled with possibilities.
Current State of the Market
As of now, the cryptocurrency market presents a mixed bag. With thousands of cryptocurrencies in circulation, Bitcoin still commands a significant market share, albeit facing tough competition from various altcoins. The market isn't just a playground for speculators; itβs an environment filled with genuine innovation. Companies like Square and Tesla have begun adopting digital currencies in their financial strategies, hinting at the mainstream acceptance that many have long anticipated.
Market volatility is a perennial issue, as prices can swing wildly on news or regulatory developments. Nevertheless, many investors see potential amidst this chaos, viewing fluctuations as opportunities for profit.
Recent trends indicate a growing interest in decentralized finance and non-fungible tokens. Thereβs a palpable excitement around how these will reshape traditional finance and ownership models.
Factors pushing the market include:
- Increased Adoption: More businesses accepting cryptocurrencies.
- Technological Advancements: Innovations like Layer 2 solutions enhancing scalability.
- Institutional Investment: Large firms or funds entering the market, signaling confidence.
Understanding the current state provides a benchmark, establishing the context in which future developments, potentially the 'next big thing,' will unfold.
Defining the Concept of 'Next Big Thing'
Understanding what constitutes the 'next big thing' in cryptocurrency can significantly influence investment decisions and market strategies. In an environment where the only constant is change, discerning the elements that can propel a digital currency from obscurity to prominence is crucial. This section delves into the specific criteria that can signal the potential for a cryptocurrency to rise to new heights, as well as examples from the past to provide context.
Criteria for Success in Cryptocurrencies
A range of factors determine whether a cryptocurrency can achieve breakout success. These criteria often include:
- Real-World Utility: Does the cryptocurrency solve a problem? If it has practical applications that can make real-world processes more efficient or accessible, its chances of success are significantly higher.
- Community Engagement: A strong, active community can propel a cryptocurrency's acceptance. Engagement via social media platforms, forums, and events fosters loyalty and encourages grassroots marketing.
- Technological Innovation: New features like faster transaction speeds or enhanced security measures can give an edge. For example, cryptocurrencies utilizing layer-two scaling solutions are typically more appealing.
- Regulatory Compliance: Being compliant with regulations is not just about avoiding legal issues; it also boosts investor confidence. Projects demonstrating a keen understanding of the legal landscape often attract more serious backers.
- Market Readiness: Timing is everything. The market must be prepared for the project being offered. If the solution is ahead of its time, it may not resonate with investors or users at first.
"In this fast-paced digital world, the right combination of timing, technology, and community can launch a cryptocurrency into the limelight."
Historical Examples of Major Cryptocurrency Breakouts
Cryptocurrencies that made waves in the market all share certain traits that contributed to their rapid growth. Looking back on historical instances, we can draw parallels to guide us in identifying future contenders.
- Bitcoin: The pioneer of cryptocurrencies, Bitcoin was born in the wake of a financial crisis and addressed the need for a decentralized currency. Its underlying technology, blockchain, was revolutionary at the time.
- Ethereum: It introduced smart contracts, effectively transforming how transactions are processed. By allowing developers to create decentralized applications, Ethereum opened up a plethora of possibilities.
- Binance Coin: Initially launched as a utility token for reducing trading fees, Binance Coin expanded its use case considerably. It now plays a role in various applications on Binanceβs ecosystem, which keeps its relevance alive.
- Cardano: Known for its rigorous development process and academic backing, Cardano stands out due to its proof-of-stake consensus mechanism, which offers a sustainable alternative to energy-intensive mining.
To identify the next major player in the cryptocurrency market, these examples serve as a reference point, showcasing how adaptability, technological advancements, and community focus can create a winning formula.
Through a keen understanding of these elements, investors and enthusiasts can better navigate the volatile waters of cryptocurrency, looking for that next big opportunity.
Technological Innovations Driving Change
Technological innovations are at the crux of whatβs reshaping the world of cryptocurrency. From how transactions are processed to the very essence of crypto economics, advancements in technology are not simply embellishments; they drive the ecosystem forward, determining which projects have the legs to stand the test of time. In this section, we'll explore a few critical elements that are pushing the envelope in the crypto space, articulating their benefits and the key considerations for investors and tech enthusiasts alike.
Blockchain Evolution and Its Implications
The blockchain technology that catalyzed the birth of Bitcoin is undergoing significant evolution. With every passing day, new protocols and consensus mechanisms emerge, each vying to offer superior speed, security, or scalability. For instance, Proof-of-Stake mechanisms, such as those seen in Ethereum 2.0, are promising to reduce energy consumption and improve transaction throughput.
The implications of this evolution are wide-ranging. More efficient systems mean lower fees, which in turn enhances accessibility. A broader audience might engage with cryptocurrencies, thus increasing overall market adoption.
Understanding the nuances of blockchain technology is imperative for cryptographic ventures. Staying updated can make a significant difference between a wise investment and a wasted opportunity.
The rise of second-layer solutions, like the Lightning Network for Bitcoin, further exemplifies this evolution. They allow for quicker transactions and are helping to pave the way for mainstream usage of cryptocurrencies in everyday transactions.
The Role of Smart Contracts
Smart contracts serve as self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code. They eliminate the need for intermediaries, making transactions quicker and less expensive. Platforms like Ethereum have popularized smart contracts, enabling decentralized applications (dApps) to flourish in various sectors from finance to gaming.
Investors keen on the next big cryptocurrency should consider projects that leverage smart contracts effectively. They can revolutionize industries by automating tasks and ensuring transparency. However, challenges remain, including potential vulnerabilities in the code and the complex nature of legal interpretations of smart contracts.
These contracts hold the potential to delineate not only financial agreements but various transactions in sectors such as real estate and supply chain management.
Interoperability among Cryptocurrencies


Interoperability is emerging as a focal point within the cryptocurrency landscape. In simple terms, it allows different blockchains to communicate and work together. This is crucial as the realm of digital assets expands. The ability for various tokens to interact synergistically opens new avenues for markets.
The Benefits of Interoperability:
- Greater liquidity: As assets can move between platforms seamlessly, liquidity increases, making it easier to trade.
- Enhanced user experience: Users can engage with multiple protocols without switching wallets or platforms constantly.
- Innovation sparking: New use cases arise by enabling combined functionalities across different networks.
Protocols like Polkadot and Cosmos are leading the charge in this area, focusing on creating an interconnected web of cryptocurrencies that can function collaboratively. These efforts spur innovation while also allowing for the more efficient utilization of resources across the board.
By analyzing these technological developments, investors and developers can gain insight into what constitutes the backbone of the evolving cryptocurrency space. Understanding these innovations is crucial for identifying which projects might just be the next big thing on the horizon.
For more detailed information, visit resources such as Wikipedia or Britannica.
Market Trends and Analysis
In the ever-shifting world of cryptocurrency, understanding market trends and analysis is vital for investors, tech enthusiasts, and analysts alike. These trends indicate not just where the market has been, but also where it might be heading. By keeping tabs on movements and patterns, stakeholders can better position themselves in a landscape filled with both opportunities and obstacles.
Key components of market analysis include:
- Decentralized Finance (DeFi): This segment has been making waves, transforming how people engage with financial services.
- Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs): A major player in the digital art and collectibles arena, these have garnered attention for both their utility and speculative value.
- Institutional Investment: The shift from individual investors to institutional bodies can drastically impact market stability and growth potential.
A comprehensive understanding of these trends equips investors to make informed decisions. Not only will they be better prepared to assess risks, but they can also spot promising projects before they skyrocket in value. Thus, this analysis forms the backbone of a sound investment strategy.
Decentralized Finance (DeFi) Revolution
Decentralized Finance, commonly referred to as DeFi, represents a significant advancement in how financial services are delivered. Unlike traditional finance, which relies on intermediaries such as banks, DeFi operates on blockchain technology, enabling peer-to-peer transactions. This shift brings forth several benefits:
- Accessibility: Anyone with an internet connection can access DeFi platforms, breaking down barriers that often hinder participation in conventional financial systems.
- Transparency: Transactions are recorded on public ledgers, allowing for greater transparency and trust among users.
- Innovative Financial Products: DeFi introduces products like yield farming and liquidity pools, which were almost unthinkable in traditional finance.
While the DeFi sector has shown immense potential, it is not without its challenges. Security breaches and scams have left many wary of the ecosystem, prompting a demand for better regulatory frameworks. However, in the grand scheme of things, the DeFi revolution has positioned itself as a frontrunner in the quest for the next big cryptocurrency innovation.
The Rise of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs)
NFTs have surged into the spotlight, capturing the attention of artists, collectors, and investors alike. These unique digital assets represent ownership and authenticity on the blockchain, revolutionizing the art and entertainment industries. Each token is distinct and cannot be exchanged on a one-to-one basis, making them ideal for scarce and collectible items.
The growing popularity of NFTs can be attributed to:
- Digital Ownership: Artists have found a new avenue to monetize their work, often earning royalties from future sales.
- Verification: Ownership records stored on the blockchain cannot be tampered with, fostering trust in the market.
- Diverse Applications: Beyond art, NFTs are being utilized in gaming, real estate, and even in representing ownership stakes in physical assets.
As the NFT market matures, itβs becoming apparent that these tokens are more than just a passing fad. Their ability to change how cultural artifacts are valued illustrates their potential for long-term influence in the cryptocurrency domain.
Impact of Institutional Investment
Institutional investment has emerged as a double-edged sword in the cryptocurrency realm. While the influx of capital can stabilize and legitimize the market, it also brings a new set of challenges. Large investments by institutions like Grayscale or Tesla signify confidence and can drive prices up significantly. However, they can also create a ripple effect that leads to increased volatility, which can be unsettling for smaller investors.
Important considerations regarding institutional investments include:
- Market Depth: Institutional buying can lead to less price manipulation by reducing volatility via higher market capitalization.
- Long-term Perspective: Institutions often adopt a buy-and-hold strategy, which can provide stability in turbulent market periods.
- Increased Scrutiny: Regulatory bodies are paying closer attention to institutional investments in cryptocurrency. This could lead to clearer, and potentially more stringent, regulations in the future.
Challenges Facing New Cryptocurrencies
As the world of cryptocurrency continues to expand rapidly, new players emerge, but the road ahead is often riddled with significant challenges. Understanding these hurdles is key for investors, inventors, and tech enthusiasts aiming to navigate this complex space. Identifying barriers both at the regulatory level and in the operational spheres can provide crucial insights for emerging projects.
Regulatory Hurdles
One of the most daunting challenges faced by new cryptocurrencies is navigating the regulatory labyrinth. Governments globally are still scrambling to understand and effectively regulate cryptocurrencies, leading to a patchwork of laws and guidelines that can hinder innovation. For instance, the legality of cryptocurrencies varies drastically from one country to another. In countries like China and India, strict limitations exist, while other nations may encourage a more lenient regulatory framework.
"Regulation is not merely a speed bump but a potential roadblock for many startups hoping to introduce innovative financial technologies that leverage cryptocurrency's potential."
Moreover, unexpected shifts in regulatory policy might arise. New guidelines may pop up overnight, catching even the most prepared companies off guard, creating a climate of uncertainty. This uncertainty can affect investor confidence, making it risky for individuals to engage with newer projects. Keeping abreast of these regulations can be a full-time endeavor in itself for projects wishing to legitimize and promote their offerings.
Market Volatility
Market volatility is another persistent challenge that looms large over new cryptocurrencies. Unlike traditional assets, cryptocurrencies often experience extreme price fluctuations within short periods. For example, a token could skyrocket in value before plummeting to a fraction of its worth just days later. This inherent volatility can deter long-term investors who prefer more stability in their portfolios.


Moreover, the concept of
Social and Economic Implications
In the realm of cryptocurrency, the social and economic implications cannot be overstated. As more individuals and institutions look to these digital assets as alternatives to traditional financial systems, the ripple effects become increasingly significant. Understanding these implications is crucial for investors, tech enthusiasts, and policymakers alike, as the integration of cryptocurrencies into daily life is not only reshaping economies but also altering social structures.
Impact on Traditional Financial Systems
The infiltration of cryptocurrencies into traditional financial systems has sparked lively debate. One fundamental effect is the disruption brought about by decentralized finance, often referred to as DeFi. Unlike conventional banking that operates through majors institutions, DeFi leverages blockchain technology to facilitate transactions directly between parties. This move can lead to reduced costs and increased accessibility for the unbanked populations, effectively offering financial services to those sidelined by existing structures.
Consider the example of bold projects like Stellar, which aims to provide low-cost cash transfer services, particularly in developing nations. With the ability to circumvent intermediaries, these systems often boast remarkably lower fees than traditional banks. While the competition is beneficial, it also raises urgent questions about regulatory oversight and consumer protection.
"The future of finance may not be through the banks, but through the blockchain."
This transition poses challenges for traditional institutions, urging them to adapt or risk redundancy. In response, some banks are starting to explore digital currencies themselves, attempting to integrate aspects of blockchain while retaining centralized control. Yet, this can create tensions as new technologies clash with established norms. The successful navigation of this landscape requires a delicate balance of innovation and regulation.
Cryptocurrency Adoption in Various Markets
The adoption of cryptocurrencies varies dramatically across different markets, reflecting diverse cultural attitudes and economic needs. In progressive environments like Silicon Valley, cryptocurrencies are often regarded as investments or payment methods. In other areas, particularly in regions grappling with hyperinflation, cryptocurrencies can serve as a safer store of value. For instance, in Venezuela, Bitcoin has become a lifeline for many, providing an escape from the plummeting value of the national currency.
Countries like El Salvador have taken bold steps by adopting Bitcoin as legal tender, stirring both excitement and trepidation among citizens and observers alike. The impact on the economy remains to be seen, particularly concerning inflation and remittance costs. However, this bold move places the nation at the forefront of the cryptocurrency revolution, opening doors for economic overhaul and potential foreign investment.
The Future of Work and Payments
As cryptocurrencies become more mainstream, their impact on the future of work is undeniable. Remote work has gained traction, and payments in cryptocurrency are starting to emerge as viable alternatives to traditional salary arrangements. Companies like OverClocked have begun paying wages in Bitcoin, illustrating a shift in employer-employee dynamics.
The potential for cost-effective transactions is noteworthy, especially for freelancers and gig workers who often face exorbitant fees through conventional channels. With lower transaction fees and immediate payments, cryptocurrencies promise to offer a more economical avenue, allowing for seamless cross-border transactions.
Moreover, the rise of smart contracts further enhances the landscape, ensuring that agreements are executed automatically based on pre-defined terms. As companies start experimenting with blockchain for payroll and contract management, the potential for greater efficiency becomes substantial. However, with these advancements come challenges as well, including the need for regulatory clarity and the necessity for a skilled workforce to manage these new technologies.
Potential Candidates for the Next Big Cryptocurrency
In the fast-paced and often tumultuous world of cryptocurrency, identifying potential candidates for the next big player is crucial. These candidates can dictate future market trends and investment strategies, influencing how digital assets are perceived and utilized. Given the variety of cryptocurrencies available, it's essential to analyze specific elements such as innovative technology, community support, and real-world applications that can lead to the next significant breakthrough in this space.
Emerging Projects to Watch
As we peer into the horizon of cryptocurrency, several emerging projects stand out, each with unique attributes that could elevate them into the limelight:
- Solana (SOL): Known for its high throughput capabilities, Solana has been gaining traction due to its focus on scalable solutions. The network supports various decentralized applications, making it an attractive choice for developers seeking faster transaction speeds without compromising security.
- Polkadot (DOT): With its multi-chain framework, Polkadot aims to enable different blockchains to interact seamlessly. This interoperability could prove pivotal as the market matures and the need for cross-chain functionality increases.
- Cardano (ADA): Cardano continues to attract attention with its strong emphasis on security and sustainability. The platform's peer-reviewed academic foundation resonates with analysts and investors alike, as it strives for long-term decentralization and scalability.
Each of these projects possesses attributes that are not just tech-savvy but also user-centered, offering practical solutions to existing digital currency dilemmas.
Innovative Use Cases and Applications
The potential candidates for the next big cryptocurrency are not solely defined by their technology but also their innovative applications. Here are some use cases that highlight the transformative nature of these projects:
- Decentralized Finance (DeFi): Blockchains like Ethereum enable complex financial applications that remove centralized authorities. This decentralization presents a secure and transparent method for lending, borrowing, and trading without traditional banks.
- Environmental Impact Solutions: Cryptocurrencies focusing on sustainability, like Algorand, are developing methods to reduce their carbon footprint, addressing increasing concerns about blockchain-related energy consumption.
- Supply Chain Transparency: Projects like VeChain are enhancing the ability to track goods through blockchain, which benefits industries by providing verification of authenticity and boosting consumer trust.
Identifying potential candidates for the next big cryptocurrency involves not just evaluating their technology but also understanding how they impact the larger ecosystem.
In summary, the exploration of emergent cryptocurrencies is as much about the technology as it is about their practical applications and societal impact. Keeping an eye on these potential candidates will equip investors, tech enthusiasts, and analysts with the requisite knowledge to navigate the ever-evolving crypto landscape.
For a deeper understanding of these projects, resources such as Wikipedia and Britannica can provide additional context.
Epilogue and Future Outlook
As we wrap up this exploration, it's clear that the world of cryptocurrency is rife with potential and uncertainty. The next big cryptocurrency won't just appear by chance; it will be shaped by multiple factors: technological advancements, evolving market conditions, and the regulatory landscape. Understanding these dynamics is imperative for anyone looking to invest or innovate in this space.
The journey ahead for cryptocurrencies isn't just about finding the next Bitcoin or Ethereum. It's about recognizing the broader implications of digital assets on global economies and individual lifestyles. Currency, as we know it, may be on the precipice of a major transformation. Therefore, keeping track of both technical developments and societal attitudes towards cryptocurrencies is crucial. Users must remain astute about emerging trends and understand that volatility is part of the territory.
Summary of Key Takeaways
- The landscape of cryptocurrency is rapidly evolving, influenced by innovation and global trends.
- Staying informed about emerging projects can provide valuable insights into potential future leaders in the market.
- Regulatory clarity will shape the extent and speed of cryptocurrency adoption.
- Investors should consider both the technical foundations and the community engagement behind new projects.
Predictions for the Cryptocurrency Landscape
Looking ahead, several developments could redefine the cryptocurrency space:
- Increased Regulation: Regulatory bodies may implement more comprehensive frameworks, impacting how cryptocurrencies operate and are perceived.
- Mainstream Adoption: As more businesses begin accepting cryptocurrencies, we might see a significant shift in public perception and trust towards these digital assets.
- Technological Integration: Innovations such as blockchain interoperability and decentralized finance (DeFi) applications will likely lead to new opportunities, pushing cryptocurrencies further into everyday financial transactions.
- Environmental Considerations: As sustainability becomes a pressing global issue, cryptocurrencies utilizing less energy-intensive methods could see greater favor among investors and users alike.
"The future of cryptocurrencies is like a chess game; it's not just the pieces in play, it's how those pieces move that will ultimately decide the winner."