Cryptocurrencies themselves are virtual currencies that are secured by cryptography, which helps secures the transaction and makes it nearly impossible to counterfeit or double-spend (spend the same token more than once). 

Despite their name, cryptocurrencies are not currencies in the traditional sense as they aren't controlled by a centralized government. Paired up with the blockchain technology allows users to receive and transfer tokens without requiring permission from a centralized authority. 

In the Gala Games and Entertainment Ecosystem, $GALA and other cryptocurrencies are rewarded and distributed to users for performing certain actions such as competing in tournaments and operating the Gala Node software with a valid Node license. Users can purchase NFTs from the Gala Store with these cryptocurrencies as well.