Justin Glibert, CEO of Autonomous Worlds, discusses on-chain universes on Ethereum, including the evolution of Autonomous Worlds and games being built today. They explore the Dark Forest game, layers of abstraction in Ethereum development, and the rise of digital beings in Autonomous Worlds.
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Quick takeaways
Ethereum enables creation of autonomous on-chain universes with unique laws and objects.
Game developers on Ethereum focus on turn-based, strategy-driven games due to real-time limitations.
On-chain universes redefine metaverse with objective rules, AI participation, and fair asset ownership.
Deep dives
Game Development Ecosystem in the Ethereum Space
In the Ethereum game development ecosystem, various games are being built ranging from simple word games like Scrabble with economic twists to complex space MMOs like EVE Online, but all with a focus on on-chain computation. The games are designed to be turn-by-turn, strategy-focused, and resource management-based due to the current limitations in real-time gameplay. The focus is on utilizing the browser interface for user interaction and creating games that allow players to trade resources and engage in strategic gameplay.
Evolution from Primitive Programming to Abstraction Layers
The journey from primitive programming methods like writing in assembly to developing abstraction layers has been crucial in the Ethereum gaming space. Just as higher layers of abstraction like operating systems enabled more accessible computing, Ethereum needs similar layers for efficient game development. Developers are now focusing on building tools and frameworks for on-chain games that can provide abstraction, scalability, and functionality needed for complex game creation.
Diverse Games and Exploration of Verbs Beyond Ownership
Game developers in the Ethereum space are exploring a wide range of games, from economic strategy games to turn-based classics, each adapting to the limitations and opportunities presented by blockchain technology. These games are not only about ownership but also extend to verbs like trade, conquer, and strategize. The Ethereum ecosystem encourages experimentation and long-term thinking, allowing developers to push the boundaries of what is possible in on-chain gaming.
The Concept of a Real Metaverse Within the Ethereum Ecosystem
Within the Ethereum ecosystem, projects like Dark Forest showcase the creation of a 'real' metaverse, where the universe exists independently of individual players and continues to evolve over time. The term metaverse, often overloaded and associated with virtual reality, is redefined in this context as a universe governed by real rules and interactions, emphasizing the objective reality of on-chain games and the potential for persistent, player-driven universes.
Creating Autonomous Worlds on the Blockchain
The episode delves into the concept of autonomous worlds being built on the blockchain. It discusses the potential for creating digital universes with fair rules and objective assets. Unlike current video games, these worlds will cater to digital beings, including AI, wanting a fair playing ground. The episode highlights the idea of on-chain agents having simplified learning and execution processes compared to traditional AI. Furthermore, it explores the monetization models for these worlds, posing challenges and opportunities for developers and users.
Unleashing the Potential of On-Chain Universes
The conversation envisions the future possibilities of on-chain universes over the next decade. It contemplates a shift towards digital worlds that amalgamate seriousness and playfulness. The episode explores the role of AI agents in these virtual environments and the importance of rules that need to be respected by all entities involved. It speculates on the evolution of civilizations towards creating a self-sustainable universe, emphasizing the objective and real nature of assets existing in these digital realms.
In today’s episode, we’re exploring the frontier of onchain universes, on Ethereum.
Autonomous Worlds is the new frontier of digital onchain universes, being pioneered by the Lattice team, of which Justin Glibert on the show today is the co-founder and CEO.
Ethereum is not just a financial computer, but a root of state for an infinite number of universes, all with their own laws of physics, objects, players, agents, and state… and, like our universe, still continues with, or without, our presence.
Justin walks us through the evolution of Autonomous Worlds. Get ready because you're going to get a taste of where the Internet has always been pointing towards… it just took us a while to get here.
0:00 Intro 2:36 Scope of Lattice 7:18 Different Affordances of Ethereum 14:21 Dark Forest 23:51 After Dark Forest 29:32 Writing Code in Assembly & Abstraction 32:42 Lattice 35:58 Games Being Built Today 43:21 Justin’s Thoughts on the “Metaverse” 51:05 Rollup & Die 55:28 Lattice’s Layer 2 1:00:13 The Future of Games 1:04:56 Onchain Native GDP 1:08:17 Closing & Disclaimers