Polygon’s Power Unleashed: Immutable Introduces zkEVM Testnet for Web3 Gamers

Immutable, a well-known gaming platform in the web3 space, has just announced the commencement of public trials for its new layer-2 blockchain called Immutable zkEVM. This forward-thinking blockchain launch is motivated by decreasing reliance on a solitary network framework

The Immutable zkEVM Testnet, featuring all of Immutable’s platform products, is officially live! So what does that mean?

✅ Enterprise-grade security
✅ Massive network effects
✅ Lower development costs
✅ Seamless ETH interoperability pic.twitter.com/50xLO7B6Yn

— Immutable (@Immutable) August 14, 2023

The primary highlight of Immutable zkEVM is it’s inventive zero-knowledge (ZK) roll-up technique, which aims to lower gas expenses and amplify transaction capabilities. Through its ability to work smoothly with the Ethereum Virtual Machine, programmers can easily migrate their current smart contracts from the Ethereum network to Immutable’s zkEVM testnet.

At the core of Immutable zkEVM lies Polygon’s Supernets, an innovative initiative crafted to streamline the creation of specialized blockchains for ious applications. Immutable’s fresh layer-2 blockchain will operate with Immutable X, a validium solution built on StarkNet technology. As reported by L2Beat, StarkNet presently holds the noteworthy status of being the seventh most significant project in the layer-2 realm.

The partnership between Immutable and Polygon can transform the options accessible to game developers completely. This collaboration grants developers, ious infrastructure partners, reducing the inherent risks of depending solely on one partner. By offering this increased adaptability, the partnership aims to create a more favorable environment for game developers to innovate and prosper

The unveiling of Immutable’s zkEVM and the partnership with Polygon aligns seamlessly with Immutable’s overarching strategy to nurture and elevate the web3 gaming eco. Moreover, this strategic maneuver effectively addresses crucial concerns surrounding scalability and cost-effectiveness that have been relevant within the gaming realm. By providing multiple layer-2 solutions, Immutable aims to directly confront these challenges and lay the groundwork for sustainable expansion within the industry.

Discovering 5 Games Utilizing Ethereum’s Scalable Infrastructure, Immutable zkEVM

Here are the major games that have revealed intentions to leverage the recently introduced Immutable zkEVM network.

MetalCore

MetalCore is a science fiction shooting game that combines first-person shooter (FPS) and player-versus-environment (PVE) mech combat elements. This unique gameplay allows players to swiftly transition from infantry soldiers to controlling colossal robotic mechs. While the game is still in its developmental phase, it intends to utilize the Immutable zkEVM network for cryptocurrency transactions, starting with its exclusive closed beta launch on September 15.

Shardbound

Reviving the fantasy player-versus-player (PVP) card auto battler game Shardbound is a collaborative effort between Immutable Games and the game studio Bazooka Tango. Several years back, the original indie developers of Shardbound at Spiritwalk Games faced what Bazooka Tango’s CEO Bo Daly had previously described to Decrypt as ‘a minor business challenge.

Fast forward to March 2023, when Immutable and Bazooka Tango announced that Shardbound would be revitalized as a blockchain-powered game. This transformation involves the integration of NFTs into the gaming experience, where players use cards to position characters on a map featuring hexagonal tiles strategically. Despite still being under development, the game is set to offer a fresh and innovative gameplay approach.

Medi Empires

Medi Empires, a strategic gaming title, announced its intention to utilize Immutable’s zkEVM network earlier this month. The game’s strategy revolves around an approach known as ‘play-and-own’ for NFTs, allowing players to possess the in-game items they acquire during their gameplay.

The game is currently accessible for play on both MacOS and Windows PCs. The game studio has also introduced a token named MEE and Polygon NFTs for virtual land. Nonetheless, no indications have been made yet regarding the possibility of migration to a different platform. Additionally, the studio has also introduced ‘silver bundles,’ which represent quantities of a synthetic in-game currency obtainable through USDC stablecoin purchases.

EF Defense

EF Defense, a strategy game for mobile platforms, revealed its intention to employ the Immutable zkEVM network in July 2023. Developed by Weracle, this play-to-earn tower defense game presents players with the task of thwarting malevolent entities from seizing control of the Land of Abundance, a fantastical realm located on the Akaros continent.

This Android and iOS game showcases a roster of 70 distinct playable characters. Moreover, the game has already introduced Polygon NFTs featuring playable characters. Neither Weracle nor Immutable has outlined the precise details of integrating the zkEVM network into the game.

Galaxy Commanders

Galaxy Commanders, an upcoming science fiction game for mobile and PC platforms, disclosed its intentions to integrate with the Immutable zkEVM network in July 2023. Within this game, players can possess in-game battleships in the form of NFTs, engage in intense battles within a grand space opera backdrop, and undertake diverse quests. Additionally, the game’s operations will involve its proprietary cryptocurrency named Dimensium.