Yield Guild Games (YGG) has launched its own publishing division named YGG Play to develop and distribute games directly under its own brand.

The first release under this new initiative is LOL Land, a browser-based board game that went live this week on Abstract Chain, with over 100,000 users pre-registered ahead of launch. The game incorporates token rewards and features characters from the Pudgy Penguins community.

The shift in strategy follows years of volatility in the blockchain gaming sector, with many projects struggling to retain long-term users. YGG’s new approach is focused on targeting existing crypto users, rather than attempting to appeal to broader gaming audiences.

What is YGG Play?

YGG Play is the new publishing arm of Yield Guild Games but unlike YGG’s previous model, which centred on asset delegation and game investment, this division focuses on producing and distributing games internally.

The goal, according to YGG, is to design games that reflect the behaviours and interests of people already active in cryptocurrency, NFT trading, and blockchain-based platforms.

Co-founder Gabby Dizon said the move reflects lessons learned since YGG’s founding in 2020. The company believes its experience in both traditional and blockchain gaming has informed a more targeted strategy that focuses on simpler, shorter-form games.

What games are on the platform?

The first title to launch on YGG Play is LOL Land, a web-based board game with four themed maps: YGG City, Beach Day, Carnival, and Ice World Wonderland. In the game, players can choose between a free mode, which allows unlimited rolls, or a premium mode that includes token rewards. Points earned in premium mode are tied to a $10 million pool of YGG tokens, which can be used within the broader YGG ecosystem.

YGG has not yet announced additional titles under the YGG Play label, but it has indicated that future projects will continue to prioritise crypto-native users over conventional gaming audiences. The company is not positioning itself to compete with large-scale game studios, but rather to provide lightweight, blockchain-based games for a niche but active user base.

Dizon noted that whilst developing games on emerging technologies is challenging, YGG sees continued potential in the space. Future releases from YGG Play are expected to build on the lessons of LOL Land and further explore how blockchain mechanics can be integrated into simple, accessible game formats.

In building Pudgy Penguins, Igloo Inc. have turned a dud into one of the world’s biggest NFT collections. With watchful eyes locked on their every move, they’re now looking to build a mainstream-ready blockchain. That blockchain is the Abstract Chain.

Abstract is a consumer-focused Ethereum Layer-2 blockchain. Luca Netz, CEO of Pudgy Penguins, states that it will “change the dynamic of how users interact with blockchain technology and easily merge both the real and digital worlds.”

Upon its debut in January 2025, community reactions were mixed – but the team behind it stayed committed. They’ve continued to build, with apps, tools and services arriving at a rapid pace. Why is Abstract so notable, how is it doing things different, and what could we see in its future?

Here’s our complete guide to the Abstract Chain.

Key Insights

• A consumer-focused Ethereum Layer-2 blockchain
• Created by Igloo Inc., owners of Pudgy Penguins
• Announced in June 2024, debuted in January 2025
• Saw huge pre-release hype, but a mixed launch
• Aims to supply “users, liquidity, and community to builders and brands”

What is Abstract Chain?

Abstract is an Ethereum Layer-2 blockchain, developed by Igloo Inc. which launched in January 2025.

The Abstract Chain is the inaugural new project from the Igloo Inc. company. Its aim is to create “the dominant consumer crypto chain”, where “culture & community building and dedicated builder & brand support” are central to how the chain is built, developed and maintained.

Abstract utilises zero-knowledge technology from zkSync and EigenDA to make this consumer-focused approach a reality. As an Ethereum L2, Abstract also inherits Ethereum‘s well-known security, reliability and decentralisation.

The Abstract Chain will be powered in future by a native token – though details on this token, including the ticker, have yet to be revealed. Since its mainnet launch, Abstract has featured its Abstract XP system. This rewards users with XP points for using Abstract apps, doing Abstract transactions, and being active in the Abstract ecosystem. These XP points are expected to translate into an allocation of Abstract’s future native token.

Much of Abstract’s popularity so far is due to its relationship to Pudgy Penguins. This NFT collection, and its CEO Luca Netz, have driven much of the excitement around Abstract to date – and as Abstract will be the home of future Pudgy Penguins experiences, such as their Vibes TCG, the chain will be a core party of the Pudgy Penguins ecosystem long-term.

A suite of popular apps, tools and services already support Abstract. This includes NFT marketplaces such as Magic Eden, exchanges such as Uniswap, and services such as Seedify. Notable games and NFT collections on Abstract include 77-Bit, Onchain Heroes, and Abstract Pepes.

How does Abstract Chain work?

Abstract puts the consumer experience first and foremost, with architectural and design decisions made with what the user will experience as the primary driving force.

Notable aspects of Abstract include:

• User experience. Abstract’s tools, features and design are optimised for simplicity and mass adoption.
• Community ethos. Culture is at the heart of Abstract, with the team stating their aim to “highlight the vital role that a strong community and cultural relevance” can play.
• Discoverability. Abstract’s app curation and discoverability is top-tier, ensuring that users have access to a full suite of apps, tools and services.
• EVM compatibility. Abstract adopts Ethereum’s security, reliability and infrastructure – and boosts it with zero-knowledge technology.

The Abstract Chain also looks to attract builders with a variety of tailored tools and services. This includes the Abstract Builder Incubator – a programme where major products can obtain direct support from the Abstract team.

With a focus on building “the dominant consumer crypto chain”, Abstract want to provide the best platform possible for top-tier builders. By giving these teams the tools, support and infrastructure they need, Abstract hopes to become home to the next-generation of powerful Web3 apps.

The history of Abstract Chain

Abstract was officially announced when Igloo acquired Frame in June 2024. This move saw development on the Frame blockchain come to a close, with their talented team joining Cube Labs and Pudgy Penguins to build Abstract Chain.

As 2024 progressed, anticipation for Abstract grew to a fever pitch. Influencers changed their avatar backgrounds to Abstract’s signature green. Popular games – such as ChronoForge – announced that they would migrate to Abstract. Popular apps, tools and services announced that they would support Abstract on launch – such as Magic Eden.

Hype grew further after the launch of $PENGU – the official token of Pudgy Penguins – in December 2024, as many saw Abstract as the Pudgy blockchain.

Abstract held its mainnet launch on January 27, 2025 – but the debut saw mixed results.

Many users had core concerns, such as a lack of contract security scanners, failing RPCs, and unexpected Ethereum gas fees. Some even claimed that popular relayer tools did not work with Abstract, leading to lost funds – with one user stating that Abstract “was not ready to be launched.”

In spite of these setbacks, the debut of Abstract did result in some clear improvements for Web3 users – particularly on mobile. The Abstract app attracted praise for its streamlined mobile experience, where in many cases, users can complete transactions without switching between apps.

Abstract’s mainnet launch also introduced the Abstract XP system. By engaging with Abstract Chain, users collect Badges and XP. These are expected to translate into an allocation of the future Abstract ecosystem token.

Users can earn Abstract XP in many different ways:

• Create your Abstract profile
• Swap $ETH for $PENGU on Abstract
• Upvote dApps on Abstract
• Play Multiplier on Abstract
• Conduct “organic interactions” on Abstract

Additional amounts of Abstract XP can be earned by users if they:

• Own an Abstract partner NFT (Pudgy Penguins, Doodles, Azuki and more)
• Hold $PENGU in their Abstract wallet
• Become an Abstract creator
• Host Abstract livestreams

For each XP point earned, users will receive allocation of the future Abstract token, set to arrive later in 2025.

Following the launch of Abstract, the first Abstract NFT collections began their mints. Two of the most anticipated NFT collections were Bearish and Pixelady Maker – but both saw their floor price dip below their mint price, creating frustration amongst Abstract supporters.

In the following weeks and months, many additional apps, tools and services arrived on Abstract. This includes the likes of Roach Racing Club, BUZZ, Top Hat, Kabu and Finalbosu.

What’s next for Abstract Chain?

Thought Abstract saw a mixed mainnet launch, their team has continued to build. The past weeks and months have seen regular updates, improvements and new features – many informed directly from user feedback.

Members of the Abstract team, such as @0xCygaar, post regularly on X to inform the community of their latest developments. This has boosted Abstract’s image, and has kept the community engaged and hopeful.

Although interest in Abstract has declined since its landmark debut, the Web3 community still has big expectations. With official Pudgy Penguins experiences set to debut on Abstract, its promises to become “the dominant consumer crypto chain”, and an XP system leading to a future token airdrop, there is plenty of promise that lies ahead.

As more apps, tools, services make their way to Abstract – not to mention an increasing list of games and NFT collections that are building a strong ecosystem for the chain – this Ethereum Layer-2 blockchain could have a big future ahead.

Blockchain technology has come a long way, yet it still feels intimidating to many. That’s where Abstract Web3, having just launched its mainnet, enters the scene. Built as an Ethereum Layer 2 (L2) solution, Abstract could bring blockchain into the mainstream by focusing on ease of use. Think of it as the missing bridge between traditional online experiences—often called Web2—and the more advanced but sometimes confusing world of Web3.

In this article, we’ll look at Abstract’s backstory, examine its technical foundations, explore its features, and discuss real-world applications. We’ll also share simple steps for getting started and consider how Abstract might reshape the future of consumer-facing crypto.

The Genesis of Abstract

Crypto adoption has often been stunted by high transaction fees, complicated onboarding steps, and clunky user interfaces. Abstract aims to simplify all of that. By offering a smoother experience, it hopes to attract a broader audience and unlock the full potential of Web3—no specialized knowledge or technical hoops required.

Who Is Behind Abstract?

Abstract is a project from Igloo Inc., best known for its Pudgy Penguins NFT collection and related memecoin. The team includes celebrated Web3 developers like Cygaar, 0xbeans, and StinkyPablo. Co-inventors Michael Lee, Luca Netz, and Lorenzo Melendez envisioned a blockchain that’s approachable for both crypto enthusiasts and total newcomers.

In June 2024, Igloo Inc. announced an $11 million fundraise led by Founders Fund, with additional support from 1kx and Fenbushi Capital.

Igloo Inc. saw how popular Pudgy Penguins became among everyday people, and recognized a need to create a user-friendly chain. Their mission is to help more people experience the benefits of crypto by focusing on simplicity, speed, and cultural relevance.

Source Abstract

Technical Foundations of Abstract

To keep things efficient, Abstract uses Zero-Knowledge (ZK) rollups under the hood. Imagine packing lots of items into one box so you can ship them all at once. ZK rollups do something similar with transactions, helping reduce congestion and fees.

Abstract also runs on the ZKsync Stack, giving it top-tier speed and security. On top of that, it’s EVM-compatible, meaning most Ethereum apps can move over without heavy rewriting—a big plus for developers eager to reach new users.

Since it’s a Layer 2 solution on Ethereum, Abstract taps into the main network’s tried-and-true safety.

Key Features and User-Centric Design

Account Abstraction for User-Friendly Wallets

Account abstraction allows wallets to function as smart contracts with extra perks. Instead of fumbling with long seed phrases, users can log in using an email or social account, recover lost credentials more easily, and even enable passkey support, similar to modern passwordless methods.

The Portal: Abstract’s “Digital Theme Park of Fun”

At the heart of Abstract is The Portal, a curated hub of over 100 onchain apps designed for casual users. Sign up with an email address, and you’re ready to explore gaming, social platforms, and more—all without wrestling with confusing interfaces.

Easy Onboarding and Familiar UX

Abstract borrows the smooth design principles from popular websites, so everything feels pretty intuitive. This approach helps newcomers stick around instead of running away the moment they hit a technical roadblock.

App Discoverability & Ecosystem Curation

The Portal organizes apps by category, popularity, and user reviews. That means you won’t waste hours sifting through obscure listings. It’s all about guiding you to the best of what’s on offer.

Panoramic Governance

Abstract introduces a governance model called “Panoramic Governance,” which incentivizes active voting and rewards protocols that contribute the most value. By sharing fees with voters and letting them decide which projects receive additional support, Abstract aligns developer and consumer interests and fosters a more engaged community.

Reward System (XP)

Abstract plans to reward users, builders, and creators with “XP” (experience points) for on-chain activity. Over time, XP may unlock perks, levels, or even potential token benefits—fostering a game-like sense of progress for active participants.

Source Abstract

Focus on Community, Culture, and Mainstream Adoption

Abstract targets consumer crypto, defined by three stages of spending—discretionary, necessary, and essential. The first wave includes entertainment, gaming, and social dApps that draw users in through fun and familiarity.

Similar to how Pudgy Penguins built a vibrant following, Abstract invests in cultural relevance. Communities naturally form around shared interests, memes, and social experiences, which fuels faster growth.

Abstract also supports live streaming, so creators can connect directly with audiences. This interactive twist makes blockchain feel more like a social hub than a complicated database.

Real-World Use Cases and Early Successes

Gaming, NFTs, and Social dApps

From online games to NFTs, Abstract hosts projects that blend real ownership with entertaining experiences. These dApps highlight how crypto can boost engagement without complicated interfaces.

Some early partners include RealGo, a treasure-hunt-based discovery game, and Duper—a blend of poker and strategy. Onchain Heroes, an idle RPG, is also expected to leverage Abstract’s low fees and fast transactions.

Alongside gaming and social products, Abstract will integrate with Magic Eden for NFT trading. Moreover, brands can integrate loyalty programs or digital collectibles, introducing Web3 to everyday life in a way that feels natural.

Decentralized Finance (DeFi) Expansions

While the focus is on consumer products, DeFi projects can also join Abstract for lower fees and improved accessibility. This synergy benefits both culture-driven apps and financial tools.

Source Abstract

How To Get Started With Abstract

Creating Your Abstract Global Wallet

Simply visit The Portal, enter your email, and let Abstract generate a wallet. Thanks to account abstraction, you won’t have to memorize complex recovery phrases.

Once inside, explore the curated list of dApps. Check ratings, join live streams, or play games—no specialized knowledge is required.

Abstract will expand. Keep an eye on upcoming features, fresh partnerships, and community events to stay updated on its evolving ecosystem.

Editor’s note: Written with the assistance of AI – Edited and fact-checked by Jason Newey.