Uprising Labs and Forthright launch Web3 Maelstrom with a $1 million tournament

Uprising Labs, a layer 2 native multi-chain blockchain built on top of the Oasys layer 1 and backed by gaming giants like SEGA, Square Enix, Bandai Namco, and others, announced today the web3 version of the nautical battle royale title Maelstrom. With this web3 release, the company is doubling down on its efforts in Maelstrom, with plans for frequent updates on Steam and web3-compatible game launchers.

Maelstrom is also part of season 9 of the Ultimate End-gamers League (UEL), with a prize pool of over 1 million dollars and up to 2500 dollars per match for its players. In collaboration with Maelstrom, UEL, Uprising Labs, and Forthright Entertainment (a leading publisher in web2), players will have the opportunity to try out the free-to-play title currently available on Steam, compete against professional esports players, and earn in-game rewards, Uprising points, and much more.

Uprising Labs CEO Eric Vander Wal described this release as a significant milestone for the company. Maelstrom has been active on platforms like Steam since September 2019 and offers a rich and immersive experience where tactical naval warfare is combined with fantasy. With up to 16 players battling in intense multiplayer modes, whether in teams against teams or in chaotic free-for-alls, each match is an exciting test of strategy and skill.

Players can also dive into a single-player mode to hone their skills and accumulate loot for ship upgrades. Whether you choose to captain a ship as a human, dwarf, or orc, Maelstrom offers deep customization options, allowing you to personalize the

statistics, weapons, and appearance of your ship.

"The interesting thing here is that a blockchain-based study and a Layer 2 blockchain will collaborate with a Web2 game study for the first time to continue developing an existing title with new features in the game, updated maps, graphics, multiplayer modes, and additional full support for Web3 in the months leading up to the launch of our main network," said CEO Eric Vander Wal in a statement.

When asked how this new web3 version would work in relation to the pre-existing web2 version, Eric exclusively told our editors, "In the current version of the game, users will have the opportunity to link and verify their wallet and Steam account so we can track their gameplay. As we move towards the testing network phase, we will implement more web3 features and explore deeper relationships with other launchers."

Uprising Labs positions itself as the first multi-chain gaming blockchain with native performance, combining the layer 1 security of Oasys and the new DA layer of Avail to provide economical gas fees. This multi-chain mechanism with native performance allows users to earn a higher APY while maintaining liquidity. Users can stake Oasys tokens (OAS) with layer 1 validators from companies like Sega and Ubisoft, allowing them to earn a 9% APY, which is higher than Ethereum staking rates. Additionally, Uprising will implement support for additional blockchains and other sources of native staking so that players can stake and play simultaneously.

According to Uprising reports, the latest web3 version of the game will allow players to experience the new dimensions of the

Gameplay. "Not only will they sink other players' ships and claim their loot, but they will also interact with the web3 ecosystem by earning, trading, and enhancing digital assets in ways that were never possible before," said Eric. The company aims to use its blockchain-based capabilities to enable players to truly own their in-game achievements, adding a new layer of ownership and value to their gaming experience.

"We are thrilled to partner with Uprising Labs to bring a new dimension to Maelstrom. This collaboration opens up exciting possibilities for the future of the game, allowing us to reach a wider audience and connect with them. Our goal remains to provide a great experience for all players. Whether you are a lifelong fan or just discovering Maelstrom, there is much to look forward to as we explore new horizons together," said Ryan Waller of Forthright Entertainment.

The tournament, in collaboration with the Ultimate End Gamers League (UEL), will also be launched in the Web2 version of Maelstrom available on Steam on August 23, 2024, and will last for 2 days until August 25, 2024 on the UEL Discord. Players will compete against other opponents to sink the most ships in Maelstrom, and the winners will receive a large number of prizes including monetary rewards of up to $2500 USD per game, in-game gold, Uprising web3 points, and more," said a UEL representative.