Ronin Moves to Ethereum Layer 2. The Ronin Network, which powers Axie Infinity, has taken a significant step forward. The team announced that Ronin will no longer operate as a sidechain but instead upgrade into a full Ethereum Layer 2 network. This shift is powered by Optimism’s OP Stack, a move that signals a new chapter for one of the most active gaming blockchains in the world.
A Big Step for Performance and Security
By adopting the OP Stack, Ronin will gain the benefits of Ethereum’s security while improving the overall user experience. Transactions are expected to become much faster, with block times dropping to between 100 and 200 milliseconds. This will allow the network to handle a huge number of interactions at once, potentially scaling to one million transactions per second in the long run.
Security is also strengthened. Instead of being an independent sidechain that relies on its own validator set, Ronin will now settle directly on Ethereum. This means it will inherit the robust security guarantees of the Ethereum mainnet.
Joining the Optimism Superchain
Another important outcome of “Ronin Moves to Ethereum Layer 2” is the integration into the Optimism Superchain. This ecosystem connects multiple Layer 2 networks built on the OP Stack, including Base, Unichain, and Kraken’s Ink. Being part of the Superchain allows Ronin to easily connect with other networks, benefit from shared upgrades, and attract more developers who are already familiar with the OP Stack.
This connection is expected to expand opportunities not only for developers but also for players. In theory, assets and identities could flow more smoothly between Ronin and other chains in the Superchain, making it easier for gamers to interact with different ecosystems without complicated bridging processes.
Ronin Moves to Ethereum Layer 2: Incentives for Developers
To encourage growth after the transition, Ronin will receive between five and seven million dollars in milestone-based grants. These rewards will be distributed in tokens such as OP, ZKC, and EIGEN. On top of that, developers working on Ronin will gain access to Optimism’s Retro Fund, which is worth 850 million dollars. This fund is designed to reward builders who create applications and tools that bring real value to the ecosystem.
The upgrade also comes with discounts on infrastructure services, including oracles, indexers, and other developer tools. This lowers the cost of building on Ronin and makes it easier for studios and independent creators to launch games, DeFi applications, or NFT marketplaces on the network.
Why the Move Matters
Ronin Moves to Ethereum Layer 2 following a careful review of the options available in the space. Several providers were considered, but the OP Stack was chosen for its open-source design and proven record in scaling Ethereum. Jeffrey “Jihoz” Zirlin, co-founder of Sky Mavis, explained that the integration enables what he calls “proof of distribution,” which means that more of the value generated on Ronin can flow back to the builders and communities who contribute to its growth.
For Ronin, this is more than just a technical change. It is also a way to rebuild trust with the broader blockchain community. After the well-known security breach that affected the network, moving under Ethereum’s security umbrella demonstrates a commitment to safety, transparency, and long-term sustainability.
What This Means for Users
The good news for everyday users is that the transition will not require extra steps. Games, DeFi protocols, and NFT marketplaces on Ronin will continue to operate as normal. The native token RON will still be used for paying gas fees, so the overall experience for players and collectors remains unchanged. Over time, however, users will notice faster transactions, smoother gameplay, and access to a wider ecosystem of applications.
A Stronger Future for Blockchain Gaming
Ronin has always been closely tied to blockchain gaming. Its success with Axie Infinity proved that millions of people are willing to use crypto wallets and play games on-chain if the experience is rewarding. By evolving into an Ethereum Layer 2, Ronin is setting itself up to be a long-term home for gaming projects that need both speed and security.
The integration with the OP Stack ensures that developers will not need to reinvent the wheel. They can rely on proven Ethereum standards while still enjoying the performance benefits of a dedicated gaming network. For players, it promises a more seamless experience and greater confidence that the assets they earn or trade will remain secure.
Ronin Moves to Ethereum Layer 2, Final Thoughts
Ronin’s decision to migrate to Ethereum Layer 2 using Optimism’s OP Stack is one of the most important upgrades in its history. Faster transactions, stronger security, developer incentives, and a place within the Optimism Superchain all position Ronin for renewed growth. For the blockchain gaming industry, this step shows how sidechains can evolve into more resilient, scalable, and interconnected networks.
Ronin Moves to Ethereum Layer 2. As the upgrade rolls out, Ronin is preparing to welcome a new wave of games, creators, and communities. The message is clear: the future of blockchain gaming is not only about speed and rewards, but also about trust, stability, and connection to the wider Ethereum ecosystem.