Optimism invites Layer-3 networks to join its Superchain, promising advanced features

Ethereum Layer-2 (L2) Optimism has urged Layer-3 (L3) blockchain to join its Superchain by building with OP Stack and sharing sequencer revenue with the Optimism Collective.

Superchain is a decentralized blockchain platform comprising many chains that share security and a technology stack (OP Stack). It already boasts several successful L2 networks, such as OP Mainnet and Base.

L3 networks joining the Superchain would access retroactive funding, airdrops, growth campaigns, and a vast network of fellow developers.

It added:

“Although they are part of the Superchain, these chains deviate from standard configurations of the OP Stack, which will have an impact on how we can roll out features like interoperability to them.”

New features

The network has introduced two new features—custom gas tokens and plasma mode—to support L3 blockchain building with its OP Stack.

Custom gas tokens empower L3 networks to tailor their transaction fees, enabling them to utilize existing L2 tokens for gas fees. This innovation streamlines the onboarding process to Optimism Superchain, enhancing accessibility for L3 networks.

On the other hand, Plasma mode offers developers the flexibility to select their data availability layer. This choice is anticipated to significantly reduce the expenses of launching new networks.

L3s drawing interest

L3 chains have recently become increasingly popular in the industry following the success of the Degen Chain.

Optimism said the L3 networks are “an important part of making the Superchain accessible to development teams with varying needs and resources.” Meanwhile, several other major L2s are working on similar initiatives. Arbitrum developer Offchain Labs launched tools for developing Orbits, which are essentially L3 chains, in 2023.

However, enthusiasm for L3 solutions is not unanimous. Polygon, a notable Ethereum scaling provider, has voiced reservations, with CEO Marc Boiron expressing concerns about potential ramifications for Ethereum’s security posture.

Other experts also advocate prioritizing the maturation and resolution of existing issues within L3 frameworks before shifting focus to L3 solutions.

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