Web3 game developer Pixelcraft has rebranded its Arbitrum L3 gaming chain as Geist, also unveiling a members-only approach for its Aavegotchi game ecosystem.

Earlier in 2024, Pixelcraft announced its forthcoming L3 rollup, then codenamed Gotchichain, was settling on Ethereum L2 Base. Prior to the move, Aavegotchi had been announced to deploy to Polygon.

Now the developer has announced its L3 Gotchichain will be called Geist, which it describes as “the first members-only blockchain, built for gaming.”

As such the permissioned gaming chain is limited to games and apps approved either by Pixelcraft or the AavegotchiDAO. In another attempt to tackle bot activity, only members who are invited will be able to claim rewards such as airdrops and giveaways. Notably, non-members will still be able to play and transact on the chain, but not be eligible to claim any benefits.

To become a Geist member, you have to get an invite code, which will initially be airdropped only to Aavegotchi NFT holders. From then on, it hopes the network effect will take over. Additionally, some invites will also be given to users with “good onchain history”. 

This approach is the result of what Pixelcraft identifies as a gap in the market for gaming blockchains focusing on quality over quantity, both in terms of games and users. In contrast to these, Geist is focused on genuine followers and players, rather than driven by impressive user numbers.

You can find out more via the Aavegotchi whitepaper.