1Kin Labs has launched GR1D, a modular Web3 gaming network, aimed at simplifying access and asset management for blockchain games. Despite entering the market later than other ecosystems, 1Kin Labs aspires to consolidate fragmented blockchain networks. The platform promises players a seamless experience, enabling them to discover top-tier Web3 games, access in-development titles, claim rewards, and manage their digital assets with a single sign-on. Jack O’Neil, the founder of 1Kin Labs, shared that the goal is to build a future-proof, open network that any game can integrate into, fostering growth and tapping into diverse communities while maintaining decentralization.
1Kin Labs revealed that they have partnered with over 100 gaming companies for this Layer-2 solution, which operates across 14 major blockchain platforms. This collaboration aims to create a cohesive ecosystem, eliminating fragmentation and complexity. O’Neil emphasized that many players accustomed to traditional gaming find the initial friction of blockchain games discouraging, as it involves barriers they are not willing to navigate.
The GR1D network, announced by 1Kin Labs, is designed to facilitate the distribution and discovery of Web3 gaming content. It acts as an umbrella for various decentralized gaming ecosystems, including the innovative 1Pass subscription model. This model is described as the first decentralized gaming subscription service, offering exclusive Web3 content, early access to games, and discounts on other services. Games like Aavegotchi, Blocklords, and Aurory are part of this network, and partnerships with ecosystems such as Polygon, Solana, and Avalanche position 1Kin to create a unified gaming hub for Web3.
Enhancing Player and Developer Experiences
GR1D aims to streamline the gaming experience by allowing players to discover new games and access their features via a single platform without the need to switch chains and wallets. The platform’s node operators provide behind-the-scenes services to ensure a smooth experience across Web3. This unified approach reduces the need for players to navigate between different ecosystems and manage multiple wallets.
Web3 game developers benefit from GR1D’s interconnectivity, accessing a broad user base without needing to migrate from their chosen blockchain. This allows developers to focus on enhancing gameplay experiences without the hassle of onboarding complexities. Chains and protocols can also increase network activity and retain their communities by leveraging GR1D’s network effects.
Stakeholders, including users, game studios, and foundations, are encouraged to participate in GR1D’s governance, ensuring the network remains decentralized and serves as a central access point to the Web3 gaming industry. These features aim to position blockchain gaming on par with traditional gaming.
O’Neil highlighted that GR1D was conceived to address the challenges of discovering Web3 games and providing interoperable tools across chains and titles. GR1D offers users a streamlined sign-in experience similar to services like Amazon Prime Gaming or Xbox Game Pass, while integrating blockchain efficiencies and redistributing value to shareholders.
Innovative Tools and Future Plans
GR1D comprises a suite of products and services designed to provide a unified user experience. One such product is 1Pass, which acts like a decentralized Xbox Game Pass, offering access to exclusive Web3 content, early game access, and discounts. The service attracted 25,000 participants during its closed beta in 2023. Another key component is 1Kit, a software development kit (SDK) that allows games and studios to enhance their Web3 features and build applications directly on the network. The SDK includes interoperable wallet tools, further simplifying integration.
GR1D will utilize leading interoperability protocols to simplify the user experience and establish a universal foundation for blockchain compatibility. The liquidity and interoperability of gaming assets are central to the network’s modular design.
O’Neil aims to support Web3 game companies similarly to how mobile platforms aided mobile game developers in earlier stages, reducing friction between platforms and developers. He acknowledged that user acquisition costs have been high in the Web3 space, necessitating new channels to drive awareness and user conversion.
To facilitate login processes, GR1D employs Gr1d Tag, a global ID system that allows gamers to maintain a single digital identity across the Web3 gaming landscape. Central to the network’s economy is Gr1d Credits ($GRID), a universal gaming token that facilitates seamless transactions and interactions across different blockchains. This token aims to address significant pain points in Web3 gaming, such as asset purchases and transfers.
The 1Pass program is scheduled to launch in early August, followed by the GR1D Testnet later in 2024, and the Mainnet in 2025. O’Neil shared that the company, initially a Web3 game studio, pivoted to developing solutions that reduce friction and provide seamless access to the Web3 gaming ecosystem. With $3.3 million raised and a team of 15, 1Kin Labs plans to launch 1Pass and a new wallet, followed by its mainnet blockchain, aiming to host the largest number of blockchain games on its platform. The GR1D network, powered by partners, will feature an interoperable SDK stack, allowing game developers to choose the aspects they want to integrate and share interoperable game assets.