Godwoken vs. Polygon
Nervos Network’s Layer 2: Godwoken
In the previous article we gave an overview of the Nervos Network, describing its multi-layer design. This includes the CKB base layer-1 responsible for storing the blockchain’s state and layer-2s built on top of CKB that handle the bulk of the network’s transactions. The Oblivion NFT marketplace has launched on Nervos’ recently introduced layer-2, Godwoken, along with the Oblivionaut NFT. Let’s explore Godwoken in more detail along with some of its offerings.
Godwoken Overview
Godwoken is a layer-2 optimistic rollup solution built on top of the Nervos CKB that launched in late June 2022. It runs in conjunction with the Polyjuice framework, which provides Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility for Nervos smart contracts. This allows existing Ethereum dApps to be easily migrated to Nervos. Godwoken wants to bring in Ethereum developers looking for a similar environment with less fees and faster transactions. This is an important value proposition as most layer 1s competing with Ethereum do not offer this compatibility.
To further support developers, Nervos launched the Build Club program, which provides builders with educational resources, funding, and direct support on marketing and technicals. The program is open to all types of Web3 projects, including DeFi, NFTs, tooling, and more. This support is critical for emerging blockchains as it is a key reason Ethereum was able to gain a significant share of the total developers in Web3.
Godwoken is the first layer-2 built on top of Nervos. This marks an important step in Nervos’ roadmap, bringing them closer to achieving the goal of becoming the blockchain of choice for developers.
Ecosystem Overview
During the mainnet beta, Godwoken started accepting applications for projects wanting to launch on Nervos. A variety of different Web3 projects have already launched with many more to come in the near future. Below are a few of the top projects currently running on Godwoken.
- Oblivion is the first NFT marketplace on Godwoken, and currently offers multiple NFTs for sale, including the Oblivionaut!
- YokaiSwap is the flagship DEX of the Nervos Network, currently live on CKB and Godwoken. YokaiSwap allows users to swap, stake, farm, and bridge tokens and has already reached over $100 million TVL earlier in the year.
- LamdaDAO is a decentralized, treasury-backed, reserve currency protocol. It is very similar to OlympusDAO, allowing users to stake their LMDA tokens to earn rebase rewards from the sale of bonds.
- Insure DeFi offers collateral protection insurance for crypto-backed loans.
- NervOpt provides call options for ckETH (Nervos ETH) with quarterly expiration dates. NervOpt won first place in Nervos’ recent hackathon.
- Many established projects are also launching on Godwoken including Celer Network, Multichain, Connext, Band Protocol, XP Network, and many more.
How to Use Godwoken
To move assets to Godwoken mainnet, you first need to have assets on Nervos CKB. This can be done by buying CKB on a centralized exchange and sending it to your CKB wallet. To not go through a centralized exchange, use the Force Bridge to send assets from either Ethereum or Binance Smart Chain to Nervos CKB.
Once you have assets on Nervos CKB, go to the YokaiSwap bridge and click on “Deposit to Layer 2”. This allows you to send supported tokens from CKB to Godwoken (minimum of 464 CKB to deposit).
Once your tokens arrive on Godwoken, your exploration begins!
FAQ
How can I get funds from one network to another?
This requires the use of a bridge, which connects two blockchains and allows users to send assets between them.
How secure is a layer 2 network?
This is highly dependent on the layer-2 used and the layer-1 it is built on top of.
Do layer 2 networks use gas?
Yes, layer-2s use gas but it is usually much cheaper than the corresponding layer-1.
