This doctoral dissertation explores the evolving value mechanisms behind Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) within blockchain-based gaming and the metaverse. Conducted as a qualitative exploratory study, the research investigates how utility, scarcity, and market dynamics influence NFT monetization and demand creation. By surveying 50 respondents across blockchain and metaverse domains, the study analyzes how NFTs may diverge from traditional asset behavior, introducing unique pathways for digital ownership and virtual economic development. Originally published as open access via ProQuest, this work is archived on Zenodo for long-term public access and scholarly citation. It contributes to ongoing discussions around digital assets, tokenization, and decentralized market structures, particularly in game economies and immersive virtual worlds. ProQuest record: https://www.proquest.com/docview/2772941447