Uprising Labs, a multichain native yield Layer 2 blockchain built on Oasys Layer 1 and secured by gaming giants such as SEGA, Square Enix, Bandai Namco, and others, today announced the web3 version of the nautical battle royale title Maelstrom. With this web3 release, the company is doubling down on Maelstrom, with plans for frequent updates on Steam and web3-compatible game launchers.

Maelstrom is also featured in season 9 of Ultimate End-gamers League (UEL), with a prize pool of over $1 million and up to $2,500 per match for its gamers. In cooperation with Maelstrom, UEL, Uprising Labs, and Forthright Entertainment—a leading web2 publisher—players will have the chance to jump into the free-to-play title currently available on Steam, compete against professional e-sports players, and win in-game rewards, Uprising points, and 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, offering a rich, immersive experience where tactical naval warfare meets fantasy. With up to 16 players battling it out in intense multiplayer modes—whether it's teams versus teams or a chaotic free-for-all—every match is a thrilling test of strategy and skill.

Players can also dive into a single-player mode to sharpen their abilities and amass 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 tailor your ship's stats, weapons, and appearance.

“What’s interesting here is that a blockchain-based studio and a Layer 2 blockchain will collaborate with a Web2 gaming studio for the first time to continue to build an existing title with new in-game features, maps, updated graphics, multiplayer modes, and additional full Web3 support over the coming months leading up to our mainnet launch,” 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: "On the current version of the game, users will be given a chance to link and verify their wallet and steam account so that we can track their gameplay. As we move into testnet phase, we will roll out more web3 features and explore deeper relationships with other launchers."

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

According to reports from Uprising, the latest web3 version of the game will allow players to experience the new dimensions of gameplay. “Not only will you sink other players’ ships and claim their loot, but also engage with the web3 ecosystem by earning, trading and upgrading digital assets in ways that were never possible,” 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're thrilled to partner with Uprising Labs to bring a new dimension to Maelstrom. This collaboration opens up exciting possibilities for the game's future, allowing us to reach and engage with a broader audience. Our focus remains on delivering a great experience for all players. Whether you're a long-time fan or just discovering Maelstrom, there’s much to look forward to as we explore new horizons together." said Forthright Entertainment's Ryan Waller.

The tournament, in collaboration with Ultimate End Gamers League (UEL), is also set to go live for the Steam available Web2 version of Maelstrom on 23rd August 2024, lasting for 2 days till 25th August 2024 on UEL’s discord. Players will compete against other opponents to sink the most number of ships in Maelstrom, as winners will receive a host of prizes including monetary rewards up to $2,500 US per game, in-game gold, Uprising web3 points and more,” said a UEL representative.