In the fast-paced world of crypto, stories of big wins always grab attention. Recently, the Milk Road Degen podcast featured NickPlaysCrypto, a trader who turned a hefty profit—over $1 million—on Virtuals Protocol. But it's not just about the money; Nick shares why he's still optimistic about AI tokens and explains some surprising shifts in the blockchain landscape. If you're into meme tokens or looking to level up your crypto knowledge, this episode is packed with gems. Check out the original thread on X for the full video.

Diving into AI Tokens: Why They're Hot Right Now

AI tokens are cryptocurrencies tied to projects that blend artificial intelligence with blockchain tech. Think of them as the fuel for AI-driven apps, agents, and services on the chain. Nick kicks off by explaining why he's all in on AI tokens. Even without a deep AI background, anyone can jump in—it's more about spotting trends and understanding the tech's potential. He breaks down how to quickly evaluate promising AI projects, focusing on team strength, real-world use cases, and community buzz.

What Drew Nick to Virtuals Protocol

Virtuals Protocol (virtuals.io) stands out as a society of productive AI agents. These aren't just bots; they're designed to create services, products, and even handle on-chain transactions autonomously. Nick shares what caught his eye: the protocol's launch on Base, an Ethereum Layer 2 chain known for its stability and low fees. Currently trading around $1.26, $VIRTUAL has seen massive volume, hinting at strong market interest.

He dives into the current state of Virtuals and what's next, emphasizing its edge over competitors. One key point? Serious AI teams are ditching Solana for Base and Virtuals. Solana's speed is legendary, but Nick argues it's "too fast for real builders." The high throughput can lead to network congestion and unpredictability, which isn't ideal for complex AI computations that need reliability.

The $VADER Pivot: From AI to Robotics

A highlight is the discussion on $VADER, now rebranded as VaderAI by Virtuals. This token, priced at about $0.0086, is pivoting toward robotics integration. Imagine AI agents controlling physical robots via blockchain— that's the vision. Nick explains how this shift opens new doors in meme token territory, blending fun narratives with tangible tech. He also reveals his daily trading strategy for $VADER, like monitoring volume spikes and using tools for quick entries and exits.

Spotlight on FUN Token

Nick touches on FUN Token (funtoken.io), a gaming-focused crypto that's dipping into DeFi and GameFi. At around $0.0088, it's all about secure, gas-free transactions. This could be a sleeper hit for meme enthusiasts, as gaming memes often go viral in crypto circles.

Nick's Journey and Broader Crypto Insights

Before AI, Nick had his share of ups and downs in investing. He recounts his pre-AI story, offering relatable advice for newcomers. Beyond Virtuals, he flags other AI tokens to watch, though specifics stay in the episode for spoiler-free listening.

A big debate: Why does AI struggle on Solana ($SOL)? It's the speed paradox—great for trading bots, but tricky for AI that requires consistent processing. Nick questions if crypto cycles are dead, suggesting AI could usher in a new era of steady growth over boom-bust patterns.

Top AI Picks and Quickfire Rounds

Wrapping up, Nick drops his current top AI picks, blending established projects with emerging meme plays. The quickfire segment covers his biggest wins, painful losses, airdrop strategies, and even his hypothetical last meal—keeping things light and fun.

This episode from Milk Road Degen isn't just hype; it's a roadmap for navigating AI in crypto. Whether you're a degen trader or building your knowledge base, insights like these can help you spot the next big meme token. Stay tuned to Meme Insider for more breakdowns on trending threads and tech news in the blockchain space.