Optimism (OP), a leading altcoin project, has 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, who have also been working on developing Layer 3 networks.
Optimism revealed that Layer 3 networks can now be built on the OP Stack and join the Superchain, with the added benefit of sharing sequencer revenue with the governance body, Optimism Collective. By joining the Superchain, Layer 3 founders will gain access to retrospective funding, AirDrop, growth campaigns, and a vast developer network. These 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 transaction fees according to their specific needs. The second feature is called Plasma Mode, which enables networks to choose their own data availability layers.
While Layer networks within the Superchain may deviate from standard OP Stack configurations to enable interoperability features, Optimism is fully prepared to include Layer 3 networks in its ecosystem. Several infrastructure teams, including Syndicate, Caldera, Gelato Network, Chaindrop, Zeeve, and Conduit, will provide support to projects developing Layer 3 networks within the Superchain.
For those unfamiliar with Layer 3 networks, they are designed for specific applications and offer a high level of customization. They are also capable of handling significantly larger transaction volumes compared to Layer 1 and even Layer 2 networks.
Optimism is not the only project working on the development 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 is offering Layer 3 features on its network through “Hyperchains”.
It’s important to 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.