Through Pudgy Penguins, Igloo Inc. have built one of the world’s biggest NFT collections. With mainstream eyes firmly looking their way, they’re now looking to build a world-class blockchain. That blockchain is Abstract.
Abstract is an Ethereum Layer-2 blockchain that intends to transform consumer-focused Web3. Luca Netz, CEO of Pudgy Penguins, has stated that it will “change the dynamic of how users interact with blockchain technology and easily merge both the real and digital worlds.”
After months of build-up, Abstract saw a mixed launch. Since then, it’s revitalised efforts to build excitement, with regular upgrades, fresh tools, and its XP system. What makes Abstract so impactful, how is it different, and what can we expect from Abstract in future?
Here’s our complete 2025 guide to Abstract.
Key Insights
- Abstract is a consumer-focused Ethereum Layer-2 blockchain
- Developed by Igloo Inc., owners of Pudgy Penguins
- Revealed in June 2024, debuted in January 2025
- Saw huge excitement before release, had a mixed launch
- Built to combine “users, liquidity, and community to builders and brands”
What is Abstract?
Abstract is an Ethereum Layer-2 blockchain, developed by Igloo Inc. which held its mainnet launch in January 2025.
The Abstract Chain is the first major new project of the Igloo Inc. company. Its aim is to create “the dominant consumer crypto chain”, where “culture & community building and dedicated builder & brand support” are at the heart of how the blockchain operates.
Abstract uses zero-knowledge technology from zkSync and EigenDA to power this consumer-focused approach. As a Layer-2 on Ethereum, Abstract also inherits Ethereum’s security, reliability and decentralisation.
The Abstract Chain will be powered by a native token – though details on this token, including the ticker, have not yet been revealed. Since its mainnet launch however, Abstract has seen users engage with the Abstract XP system. This rewards users with XP points for using Abstract-based apps, performing transactions, and being active in the Abstract ecosystem – with these XP points expected to translate into an allocation of this future native token.
Abstract’s popularity thus far is due to it being a product of Igloo Inc. – the parent company of Pudgy Penguins. This NFT collection, and its CEO Luca Netz, have driven Abstract’s traction to date – and with Abstract to be the home of future Pudgy Penguins experiences, such as their Vibes TCG, the chain will be central to the Pudgy ecosystem in future.
Many popular apps, tools and services already support Abstract. This includes NFT marketplaces such as Magic Eden, exchanges such as Uniswap, and services such as Seedify. Games and NFT collections on Abstract include 77-Bit, Onchain Heroes, and Abstract Pepes.
How does Abstract work?
Abstract prioritises the consumer experience, putting user interactions and the user experience first.
Some of the standout aspects of Abstract include:
- User experience. Abstract puts user experience first, with tools, features and a design that are optimised for simplicity and mass adoption.
- Community ethos. Culture is central to Abstract, with the team stating their aim to “highlight the vital role that a strong community and cultural relevance” can play.
- Discoverability. Abstract has put a lot of focus on app curation and discoverability, seeing that users have access to a full catalog of apps, tools and services.
- EVM compatibility. As an Ethereum Layer-2 blockchain, Abstract adopts its security, reliability and infrastructure – boosting it with zero knowledge technology.
Abstract have also optimised the development process for builders. This includes the Abstract Builder Incubator – a programme where high-impact products can secure direct support from the Abstract team to bring their ideas to life.
By focusing on building “the dominant consumer crypto chain”, Abstract look to provide the ideal platform for builders wanting to attract mainstream audiences. By providing the tools, support, and solid blockchain foundations, Abstract wants to attract the best – and so far, this approach seems to be panning out.
What has Abstract accomplished so far?
Abstract was announced upon Igloo’s acquisition of Frame in June 2024. This saw Frame be sunset, with their team joining Cube Labs and Pudgy Penguins to build Abstract.
Across the rest of 2024, excitement for Abstract grew and grew. Influencers changed their PFP backgrounds to Abstract’s signature green. Many games announced that they would migrate to Abstract – such as ChronoForge. Popular apps, tools and services said they would support Abstract on launch – such as Magic Eden.
This interest only grew after the launch of $PENGU – the official token of Pudgy Penguins – in December 2024, as many saw Abstract to be the official Pudgy blockchain.
Abstract held its mainnet launch on January 27, 2025 – but it wasn’t all smooth sailing.
On launch, many users had concerns, such as a lack of contract security scanners, failing RPCs, and unexpected Ethereum gas fees. Some even claimed that Abstract lost their funds when using a relayer tool, leading to one user stating that Abstract “was not ready to be launched.”
Despite this, Abstract’s debut did see some clear improvements over other available blockchains – particularly on mobile. The Abstract app saw much praise for its much-improved mobile Web3 experience, whereby in many cases, users can execute transactions without switching between apps.
The launch of the Abstract mainnet also introduced the Abstract XP system – their airdrop points program. By engaging with Abstract, users collect Badges and XP – with both likely to reward the future Abstract token.
There are many ways in which users can earn Abstract XP:
- Set up your Abstract profile
- Swap $ETH to $PENGU on Abstract
- Upvote dApps on Abstract
- Play Multiplier on Abstract
- Perform “organic interactions” on Abstract
Additional Abstract XP can be obtained if you:
- Own an Abstract partner NFT (Pudgy Penguins, Doodles, Azuki and more)
- Hold $PENGU in your Abstract wallet
- Become an Abstract creator
- Host Abstract livestreams
Each XP point goes towards an allocation of the future Abstract token, set to arrive later in 2025.
After the Abstract mainnet launch, the first Abstract NFT collections held their mints. Two of the most hyped NFT collections were Bearish and Pixelady Maker – although both saw their floor price dip post-mint, creating frustration amongst fans.
Since then, many additional apps, tools and services have arrived on Abstract. This includes Roach Racing Club, BUZZ, Top Hat, Kabu and Finalbosu.
What does the future hold for Abstract?
The weeks following the Abstract mainnet launch have seen consistent updates, improvements and new features. Members of the Abstract team, such as @0xCygaar, post regularly on X to inform the community of their latest developments.
Since launch, Abstract has seen many improvements directly informed from user feedback. This has helped boost Abstract’s image following the mixed reaction to their debut, and has helped to keep the community engaged.
Although interest in Abstract has declined since its debut, the wider community still has huge expectations. With its promises to become “the dominant consumer crypto chain”, the upcoming Pudgy Penguins games that will debut on Abstract, and the Abstract XP system leading to a token airdrop, there is much ahead in 2025.
With more apps, tools, services debuting on Abstract – alongside games and NFT collections that build a strong community for the chain – the future is full of potential for this new Layer-2 blockchain.
Bullish on web3. Competitive soul.