Immutable, a leading Ethereum gaming platform, has recently announced its decision to merge the original Immutable X network with the newer Immutable zkEVM chain. This consolidation process is expected to be finalized by late 2025, following the zkEVM network’s successful processing of nearly 150 million transactions since its launch in early 2024.
The introduction of the zkEVM solution by Immutable last year has brought significant benefits to users, including EVM-compatible smart contracts, enhanced liquidity for in-game items, and access to a wider range of DeFi tools. zkEVM chains offer improved scalability, faster transaction speeds, and lower fees while maintaining full compatibility with Ethereum smart contracts.
The primary objective behind merging assets and games into a single network is to establish a unified ecosystem for Web3 gaming. Several prominent titles have already transitioned to the zkEVM chain, such as Guild of Guardians, a mobile role-playing game with over one million downloads.
For existing Immutable users, the upcoming merge aims to minimize disruptions by automatically migrating assets to the Immutable zkEVM network. Wallet holders, including those using the Immutable Passport wallet, will see their tokens and collectibles seamlessly transferred to the new network. However, users have the option to opt-out of the automatic migration and withdraw their assets to Ethereum Layer 1 before the merge if they prefer.
The consolidation process will have a significant impact on game developers and marketplaces utilizing Immutable X APIs. Projects built on these APIs will need to adjust their integrations to align with the zkEVM chain. Immutable plans to reissue ERC20 and ERC721 tokens for existing projects using a standard template, with the company bearing the gas costs for migrating these assets.
Immutable has already witnessed a range of games and publishers deploying on the zkEVM chain, including well-known titles like Gods Unchained, Illuvium, and Treeverse. The company expects all projects within its ecosystem to benefit from a unified environment that facilitates token trading, cross-game collaboration, and user onboarding.
While an exact date for the merge has yet to be confirmed, Immutable is working towards completing the process by late 2025. The team also plans to provide more information on upcoming improvements to validity proofs and the overall architecture to help current and future partners prepare effectively for the transition.