The Avalanche blockchain recently experienced a surge in activity, surpassing 1 million daily transactions on two separate occasions within a single week. This marks the first time the network has achieved this milestone since February 2024.
Avalanche transactions exceeded 1 million on June 1st and again on a subsequent Saturday. Data from the blockchain analytics platform Nansen reveals that total transactions for the week commencing June 2nd reached 5.8 million, representing the highest weekly total since early 2024.
This significant increase in activity can be primarily attributed to the launch of MapleStory Universe, a Web3 gaming ecosystem built on Avalanche, as highlighted by Avalanche on X. The first game within this ecosystem, MapleStory N, was launched on May 15th.
Prior to the arrival of the side-scrolling online role-playing game on Avalanche, the blockchain’s daily transactions rarely exceeded 500,000 in 2024.
MapleStory achieved widespread popularity among gamers in the 2000s and early 2010s, establishing itself as a proto-metaverse for socializing, forming friendships, and even developing romantic relationships.
Its original iteration showcased early examples of virtual economies, in-game currencies, tradable items, and user-driven content, elements that blockchain technology now aims to enhance. The franchise holds a strong nostalgic appeal for millennials across South Korea and Southeast Asia.
Nexon’s Involvement Boosts Confidence
The excitement surrounding MapleStory Universe is further amplified by the involvement of its developer, Nexon, a Tokyo-listed South Korean gaming giant. Nexon also holds Bitcoin (BTC) in its corporate treasury.
As of Monday, Nexon holds 1,717 BTC, acquired in April 2021.
MapleStory’s launch also introduced Nexpace Coin (NXPC), the primary currency within the MapleStory Universe.
Despite initial enthusiasm, NXPC has struggled to maintain its initial momentum. After reaching an all-time high of $3.77 shortly after launch, it has since fallen significantly.
Avalanche Positioned as a Gaming Blockchain
Avalanche has been gaining traction within the Web3 gaming space since late 2024. This momentum was further fueled by the launch of Off The Grid, a shooter built on its GUNZ subnet, signaling a move towards attracting mainstream gamers rather than solely crypto enthusiasts.
This narrative also extends to the native Avalanche (AVAX) token.
On May 14th, the day before MapleStory N launched, AVAX was trading as high as $26. It has since declined, remaining far below its yearly high reached in December.