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
- Aims to supply “users, liquidity, and community to builders and brands”
- 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
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.
