Ethereum’s potential as a global decentralized network has long been challenged by scalability and high fees, but the Optimism Superchain, powered by the OP Stack, is changing that. As a modular Layer 2 (L2) ecosystem, the Superchain enables multiple interconnected blockchains to provide faster, cheaper transactions while maintaining Ethereum’s security standards.

This article explores the Superchain’s framework, dives into its key projects like Base, Optimism, and Mode, key data insights on its ecosystem, and its promising future as a cornerstone for decentralized applications.

The Vision Behind Optimism’s Superchain

The Optimism Superchain aims to scale Ethereum by building a network of L2 chains that are interoperable, customizable, and efficient. With the OP Stack - a modular, open-source toolkit - each L2 chain within the Superchain can operate with its own gas token, governance model, and features. This flexibility enables diverse economic models and use cases, supporting everything from DeFi to social applications. By supporting multiple projects on a shared infrastructure, the Superchain allows Ethereum to scale through a seamless network of L2s, paving the way for greater adoption and functionality.

The OP Stack’s customization options also empower chains within the Superchain to align token incentives with their specific economic models. For example, some chains might use ETH as gas, creating a familiar environment for users, while others might use the OP token or a native token to align with specific project goals.

This flexibility opens the door for diverse applications, from DeFi and gaming to social platforms, with minimal overhead. The Superchain envisions a decentralized internet where high-performance applications can thrive on scalable, composable, and interoperable infrastructure.

Key Projects on the Optimism Superchain

The OP Stack has enabled a range of projects to build on the Optimism Superchain, each contributing to the ecosystem’s growth and user diversity. Here’s an overview of some of the Superchain’s standout projects, each with unique applications and user bases.

Current Top 7 Chains on the SuperChain by TVL (Source)

1. Base (by Coinbase)

Base is an Ethereum Layer 2 chain developed by Coinbase. Built on the OP Stack, it is designed to provide scalability and security for applications. Base integrates tightly with Coinbase’s ecosystem, enabling users to bridge assets easily and access decentralized applications. It also supports diverse use cases such as decentralized finance (DeFi), gaming, and retail applications.

2. Optimism

Optimism is the foundational chain within the Superchain ecosystem, offering an Ethereum-equivalent Layer 2 rollup. It is optimized for scalability and throughput, making it a suitable platform for decentralized applications requiring frequent and complex interactions. As part of the Superchain, Optimism plays a central role in coordinating governance and infrastructure upgrades across chains.

3. Mode

Mode is a DeFi-focused modular Layer 2 chain built using the OP Stack. It is designed to support financial services, offering composability that allows developers to create interconnected DeFi applications. Mode supports use cases such as lending protocols, derivatives platforms, and liquidity pools, making it a critical component of the Superchain’s financial ecosystem.

4. Fraxtal

Fraxtal is a modular Ethereum Layer 2 chain that utilizes a unique scaling approach referred to as "fractal scaling." This design enables other networks to build on its infrastructure, enhancing scalability and interoperability. Fraxtal is particularly suited for applications such as algorithmic stablecoins, high-frequency trading platforms, and DeFi protocols requiring low-latency interactions.

5. InkChain

InkChain is a Layer 2 blockchain developed by Kraken, built on Optimism's Superchain using the OP Stack. It aims to provide a seamless bridge to decentralized finance (DeFi), enabling users to engage with DeFi applications confidently and efficiently. By leveraging Kraken's extensive experience and security measures, InkChain offers a robust platform for developers and users to explore DeFi opportunities.

6. Build on BOB

Build on BOB (BOB) is a hybrid Layer 2 blockchain that combines the security of Bitcoin with the versatility of Ethereum. It utilizes the OP Stack rollup framework to support Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility, allowing developers to deploy smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps) that interact with Bitcoin's network. BOB facilitates the integration of Bitcoin's liquidity into the Ethereum ecosystem, enabling innovative applications that leverage the strengths of both blockchains.

Core Data Insights on the Superchain Ecosystem

Key data metrics provide a quantitative view of the Superchain’s growth, efficiency, and demand. Let’s look at data on combined transactions, gas usage by chain, and project-specific gas fees to understand how the Superchain supports high transaction volumes and low costs.

Superchain TVL Growth

The Superchain has seen consistent growth in Total Locked Value (TVL) as more projects leverage its infrastructure. This metric underscores growing trust and adoption among developers and users alike:

Superchain Weekly TVL Growth for the past 2 years (Source)

Network Activity Across Chains

A look at daily transaction volumes across all L2 chains in the Superchain reveals strong demand and user engagement. The following chart highlights how each chain is contributing to the network’s overall activity, reflecting the growing user base that benefits from the cost savings and speed advantages of L2.

Number of transactions on the Superchain over the past year (Source

Breaking down daily transactions by each chain within the Superchain allows us to see how individual projects are performing. For instance, chains with a focus on DeFi tend to show higher transaction volumes due to complex and frequent interactions with smart contracts, while social-focused chains might have lower but more consistent engagement.

At present, Base - the chain developed by Coinbase - accounts for approximately 80% of the Superchain’s transaction volume, underscoring its role as a major driver of network activity. This level of engagement from Base highlights the effectiveness of its design in onboarding a broad user base and enabling high-volume applications.

Superchain TPS Per Chain (Source)

Active Addresses by Sector: DeFi Leads

The Superchain ecosystem demonstrates a diverse range of use cases, with DeFi leading as the most active sector by addresses, accounting for approximately 37.8% of all activity as of October this year. This highlights the high level of engagement in decentralized finance applications, driven by frequent and complex smart contract interactions.

However, the ecosystem is far from being solely focused on DeFi. Externally Owned Accounts (EOAs) represent the second-largest category, with 25.9% of active addresses, underscoring the Superchain's appeal to general-purpose users and activities outside of DeFi. Other sectors, including social platforms, gaming, and infrastructure-based applications, also contribute significantly, showcasing the Superchain’s adaptability and broad utility:

Superchain Active Addresses per sector on the month of October (Source)

The Superchain’s Decentralized Future

The Optimism Superchain represents a shift in blockchain scalability. Its modular, interoperable design paves the way for a decentralized internet that is efficient, secure, and inclusive. By offering developers customizable OP Chains, the Superchain enables a wide range of applications, from high-frequency DeFi protocols to user-friendly social platforms.

As more projects join the Superchain and enhancements like synchronous cross-chain transactions and low-latency messaging are realized, its potential to scale the decentralized web becomes even clearer. With Ethereum's scalability at its core, the Superchain is poised to drive global blockchain adoption and empower developers to build a truly decentralized future.

The journey to realize the full vision of the Superchain is still underway, but the foundation has been laid. For Ethereum and blockchain enthusiasts, the Superchain is not just a concept—it’s the next step in bringing the decentralized internet to life.