Optimism, a leading altcoin project, recently made an exciting announcement regarding the integration of Layer 3 networks into its OP Stack and Superchain. This move follows in the footsteps of other projects like Arbitrum and zkSync.
Optimism revealed that Layer 3 networks can now be built on the OP Stack and have the opportunity to share sequencer revenue with the Optimism Collective, the governance body of Optimism. By joining the Superchain, Layer 3 founders will gain access to retrospective funding, AirDrop benefits, growth campaigns, and a wide developer network. Layer 3 networks settle on Optimism’s Layer 2 networks such as OP Mainnet, Base, and Mode.
To facilitate the integration of Layer 3s, Optimism has introduced two new features to the OP Stack. The first feature is custom gas tokens, which allow networks to design their own transaction fees. The second feature is Plasma Mode, a solution that enables networks to choose their own data availability layers.
While Layer networks within the Superchain may deviate from the standard OP Stack configurations to enable interoperability, Optimism is committed to including Layer 3 networks in its ecosystem. Several infrastructure teams, including Syndicate, Caldera, Gelato Network, Chaindrop, Zeeve, and Conduit, will support projects in developing Layer 3 networks within the Superchain.
Layer 3 networks are designed for specific applications, making them highly customizable and capable of handling larger transaction volumes compared to Layer 1 and even Layer 2 networks.
Optimism is not the only project focused on building an ecosystem of Layer 3 networks. Offchain Labs, the team behind Arbitrum, introduced development tools called “Orbit” in April 2023 to facilitate development on Layer 3 networks. Similarly, zkSync offers Layer 3 features on its network through “Hyperchains”.
Please note that the information provided in this article is not investment advice. Investors should be aware of the high volatility and risks associated with cryptocurrencies and conduct their own research.