Optimism’s New Frontier: Layer 3 Chains
Optimism, a pioneering blockchain platform, has announced that Layer 3 chains can now integrate with the Superchain by utilizing the OP Stack. This strategic expansion allows Layer 3 networks to settle on Optimism’s various Layer 2 chains like OP Mainnet, Base, Mode, and others.
Enhancements and Benefits for Layer 3 Builders
To facilitate this integration, Optimism has introduced two groundbreaking features to the OP Stack. First, the custom gas tokens feature gives Layer 3 chains the autonomy to tailor their transaction fees. Secondly, the Plasma Mode feature allows chains to select their preferred data availability (DA) layer, enhancing customization and efficiency.
Layer 3 builders joining the Superchain will benefit from various incentives such as retroactive funding, airdrops, and growth campaigns. They will also gain access to a wide network of developers and potential for increased transaction volume and customization specific to their applications.
Revenue Sharing and Ecosystem Support
By building on the OP Stack, Layer 3 chains agree to share sequencer revenue with Optimism’s governance body, the Optimism Collective. This collaboration underscores a mutual commitment to the ecosystem’s growth and sustainability.
Several key infrastructure teams, including Syndicate, Caldera, Gelato Network, Chaindrop, Zeeve, and Conduit, have pledged support to help projects develop their Layer 3 chains within the Superchain, ensuring robust development support.
Competitive Developments in Layer 3 Technology
Optimism is not alone in its pursuit of a Layer 3 ecosystem. Offchain Labs, creators of Arbitrum, launched development tools called “Orbit” in April 2023 to support Layer 3 chain development. Similarly, zkSync has been working on “Hyperchains” to enable Layer 3 functionalities, indicating a growing industry trend towards these advanced blockchain solutions.
As Layer 3 chains continue to evolve, they promise to offer more tailored functionalities and greater transaction capacities than their predecessors. With these developments, Optimism aims to solidify its position as a leader in blockchain technology, pushing the boundaries of what decentralized networks can achieve.
