The rise of Web3 gaming has transformed the traditional video game industry by introducing decentralized ownership, in-game economies, and play-to-earn mechanics. At the heart of this evolution are powerful blockchain networks that provide the infrastructure, scalability, and developer support needed to build immersive, decentralized games.
In 2024, several blockchain platforms have emerged as top contenders for Web3 game development — offering fast transactions, low fees, robust tooling, and active ecosystems. Here are the 15 best blockchain networks for Web3 game growth in 2024:
1. Ethereum (Layer 2 – Polygon, Arbitrum, Immutable X)
Despite high gas fees, Ethereum remains foundational to Web3 gaming thanks to its large user base, strong security, and ecosystem. Most developers now build games using Layer 2 solutions like Polygon (low fees, Ethereum-compatible, widely adopted), Immutable X (built for NFTs and gaming, zero gas fees for minting), and Arbitrum (scalable Layer 2 with growing gaming DApps).
2. Solana (SOL)
Known for its ultra-fast transactions and low fees, Solana is a preferred network for real-time multiplayer games and NFT-based economies. Titles like Star Atlas and Aurory have put Solana at the forefront of scalable Web3 gaming.
3. Avalanche (AVAX)
Avalanche offers near-instant finality and subnets, allowing developers to launch custom, high-performance gaming chains. Its EVM compatibility and growing ecosystem have attracted major gaming projects like Shrapnel.
4. BNB Chain
Backed by Binance, BNB Chain offers low-cost and high-speed transactions, making it popular for casual and mobile Web3 games. Its large community and access to Binance’s user base support rapid game adoption.
5. Immutable X
Built specifically for gaming and NFTs, Immutable X is a Layer 2 protocol on Ethereum that offers zero gas fees and instant transactions. Its ecosystem includes games like Gods Unchained and Guild of Guardians.
6. Ronin
Originally developed by Sky Mavis for Axie Infinity, Ronin is now a broader Web3 gaming chain. It features extremely low fees and is optimized for player experience, attracting new titles in 2024 beyond Axie.
7. Sui
Created by former Meta engineers, Sui offers high throughput and object-centric architecture ideal for game mechanics. It supports composable assets, real-time interactions, and seamless in-game item ownership.
8. Flow
Flow, developed by Dapper Labs (creators of NBA Top Shot), is purpose-built for consumer-scale apps and games. Its easy-to-use developer tools and mainstream appeal make it ideal for onboarding non-crypto gamers.
9. Arbitrum
As one of Ethereum’s most widely used Layer 2s, Arbitrum combines EVM compatibility with scalability. Its growing Web3 gaming ecosystem includes games leveraging DeFi and NFTs within a familiar dev environment.
10. Polygon
Polygon remains a powerhouse in Web3 gaming, offering a wide array of development tools, zkEVM scalability, and partnerships with major brands like Ubisoft and Square Enix. Its accessibility and speed have made it a favorite for mobile and browser-based games.
11. Optimism
Another Ethereum Layer 2, Optimism focuses on scalability and developer friendliness. Game studios are beginning to explore its potential for interoperable gaming economies and NFT integrations.
12. WAX
The Worldwide Asset eXchange (WAX) is purpose-built for virtual items and NFTs. It supports thousands of daily transactions at zero gas cost, ideal for trading-heavy and collectible games like Alien Worlds.
13. Cosmos (via Cronos, Injective, and others)
Cosmos allows for custom app chains through its IBC protocol, enabling tailored gaming environments. Projects like Cronos (connected to Crypto.com) and Injective support gaming infrastructure within the Cosmos ecosystem.
14. Near Protocol
Near offers high scalability and a user-friendly experience with human-readable addresses and low transaction fees. Its Aurora EVM compatibility broadens the ecosystem, supporting high-performance Web3 games.
15. Enjin
Enjin provides a full-stack suite for blockchain game developers, including wallets, marketplaces, and NFT infrastructure. The Enjin ecosystem has helped power hundreds of gaming projects focused on digital collectibles and player-owned assets.
Final Thoughts
Web3 gaming is rapidly evolving, and choosing the right blockchain network is crucial for scalability, player experience, and ecosystem growth. Whether it’s fast Layer 1s like Solana, Ethereum-based Layer 2s like Polygon and Immutable X, or specialized platforms like Ronin and WAX, each of these 15 networks offers unique advantages to power the next generation of decentralized games.
