Astar Network, a multi-chain smart contracts and Web3 infrastructure platform, has announced the launch of Astar zkEVM, a new Layer 2 scaling solution for Ethereum. The mainnet is set to go live later this month, with a launch campaign called “Yoki Origins” to follow immediately.

The new zkEVM L2 is compatible with Ethereum smart contracts, toolset, and wallets, providing a secure, scalable, and gas-efficient platform for Web3 projects and enterprises. It is powered by Polygon’s Chain Development Kit (CDK) and leverages Polygon and Polkadot technologies.

Astar Network has a strong presence in Japan and is expanding globally. It has already attracted top projects such as Quickswap, LayerZero, The Graph, and Rarible, and is set to integrate with several leading Japanese enterprises.

The Astar zkEVM launch campaign, “Yoki Origins,” will offer users the opportunity to explore and interact with over 40 Web3 projects, creators, and enterprises on the platform. It will also provide access to Astar Network’s original characters, inspired by Japanese Yokais, through Capsule Machines or “Yo-Ports.” Users can also acquire artwork from various artists, builders, and enterprises.

The campaign will support social logins and credit card payments, making it accessible to everyone. According to Astar, “Yoki Origins” aims to showcase the platform’s reach and celebrate its Japanese origins in a unique way.

Maarten Henskens, Head of Astar Network, said, “Astar zkEVM will establish a bridge between Japan and the broader web3 ecosystem, with projects by top Japanese enterprises, famous IPs, and prominent industries to be unveiled soon.”

Overall, the launch of Astar zkEVM and its accompanying campaign is expected to bring exciting opportunities for users to engage with the platform and its growing community.