I know what you mean. I'm not planning around own tokenomics right now. I think that's a distraction around great gameplay. Splinterlands already has enough tokenomics and more use-cases for the tokens/assets is IMO more beneficial than new tokens. (which is also difficult to get right, as you mentioned)
Re: client-side. All of the logic for the game is happening on the server. Client makes actions ofc, but those are verified on the server as well. 🙂
Oh and didn't know you're making games. Anything I might have seen already?
Excellent decision. It's far easier to implement tokenomics once a core community is established as well. Bolt-on tokenomics if you will. Even Splinterlands saw its greatest growth after doing so when it came to DEC and SPS introductions. I see future tokenomic options as reserve ammo to spur growth on should it become needed.
I have a very simple idle game on hive called ape Mining Club which was more of an experiment. I have a few games on iOS and Android as well as working on some for another chain. I did have planned a couple games for Hive Punks originally but I don’t think I will finish them.