In an ambitious move to propel the ApeCoin ecosystem to new heights, ApeCoin DAO, in collaboration with Horizen Labs, Offchain Labs, and the Arbitrum Foundation, has unveiled a groundbreaking proposal for the creation of ApeChain. This innovative platform is designed to cater specifically to the burgeoning blockchain gaming ecosystem and will be built using Arbitrum’s cutting-edge technology.

The ApeChain proposal outlines a strategic vision to harness the strengths of Arbitrum’s technology, positioning ApeChain as an independent governed chain within the Ethereum ecosystem. The key driving force behind this initiative is to facilitate the growth of the ApeCoin ecosystem, utilizing ApeCoin (APE) as the native gas token for ApeChain.

As part of the proposed development, Horizen Labs will play a pivotal role in spearheading the overall growth of the ApeChain ecosystem. The ApeChain network, described as an Orbit chain built using AnyTrust, aims to provide a dedicated space for blockchain gaming, tapping into the flourishing market of decentralized applications and virtual worlds.

The proposal suggests that leveraging Arbitrum’s market-leading technology will position ApeChain for success within the Ethereum ecosystem. By utilizing APE as the gas token, ApeChain envisions creating a thriving native economy around APE, encompassing staking and governance functionalities. This strategic move is anticipated to fuel a new revenue stream for ApeCoin DAO, with the added benefit of low gas fees promoting increased traction in the blockchain gaming sector.

The project envisions establishing a Data Availability Committee featuring key partners such as Horizen Labs, Offchain Labs, Magic Eden, Layer Zero, and potentially Yuga Labs, the Web3 startup behind Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) and CryptoPunks. The involvement of these partners is expected to contribute to the overall success and governance of ApeChain.

The proposal outlines a timeline for the development of ApeChain, with Horizen Labs anticipating the commencement of development in Q1, 2024. This phase will include onboarding teams and formalizing the ApeChain governance structure. A testnet is slated for launch in the same quarter, with the mainnet launch projected for Q2, 2024, contingent on the acceptance of the proposal.

In tandem with the development efforts, the Arbitrum Foundation has committed to providing grant funding for a Rollup-as-a-Service provider, ApeChain Security Council, and a block explorer. This collaborative effort among ApeCoin DAO, Horizen Labs, Offchain Labs, and the Arbitrum Foundation underscores the commitment to fostering innovation and growth within the ApeCoin ecosystem, paving the way for a new era in blockchain gaming.