Key Takeaways
- Subnets and appchains give Web3 games dedicated blockspace, solving congestion and gas-fee problems.
- Developers can customize performance, governance, and token models at the infrastructure level.
- App-specific chains enable smooth gameplay at scale while keeping assets and logic decentralized.
Why Web3 Gaming Needs a New Infrastructure Layer
Web3 games aren’t just cosmetic add-ons to the blockchain—they rely on constant, verifiable updates to player inventories, in-game economies, ownership logs, and marketplaces. This means they generate far more transactions than typical decentralized apps.
If these games were run entirely on congested Layer-1 networks, players would face:
- Delayed confirmations
- Spiking gas fees
- Unpredictable performance
- Bottlenecks during peak gameplay
To overcome these limits, developers are turning to subnets and appchains, two approaches that let them build tailor-made blockchains optimized specifically for gaming.
What Subnets and Appchains Actually Are
While terms differ across ecosystems, both concepts solve the same problem: isolation + customization.
Subnets
A subnet is a separate blockchain that runs within a larger ecosystem but uses its own validators and rules.
- Popularized by Avalanche, but adopted elsewhere
- Operates independently of the main chain
- Benefits from shared tooling, bridges, and security
Appchains
An appchain is a purpose-built blockchain designed for one game or one application.
- Common in Cosmos, Polkadot, Ronin, SKALE, and modular networks
- Gives full control over gas fees, block times, and governance
- Allows developers to choose their security model
In both cases, the goal is to give the game its own lane, free from congestion caused by unrelated apps.
How Subnets Improve Web3 Game Scalability
Subnets offer a mix of independence and ecosystem support, making them ideal for fast-growing multiplayer games.
1. Dedicated Resources
Because a subnet isn’t shared with other apps, developers avoid network spikes that would normally slow gameplay.
2. Custom Gas Models
Games can set:
- ultra-low gas
- no gas (developer-sponsored)
- token-specific gas fees
This eliminates the friction players experience in typical blockchain games.
3. Tailored Performance
Developers can optimize block times, throughput, and validator hardware requirements based on gameplay needs.
4. Easier Upgrades
Game studios can upgrade their subnet without waiting for global governance votes on the main chain.
Why Many Web3 Studios Prefer Appchains
Appchains take customization even further—offering total sovereignty over infrastructure.
1. Full Control Over Tokenomics
Gas tokens, staking rewards, and governance power can be tied directly to the game’s economy.
2. Player-Centric Design
Developers can tune the chain specifically for gameplay mechanics like:
- real-time PvP
- crafting loops
- open-world simulations
- high-volume marketplaces
3. Native Interoperability
Frameworks like Cosmos IBC and Polkadot XCMP allow assets and data to move between games without friction.
4. Custom Security Models
Studios can choose shared security, rented security, or independent validators depending on budget and risk tolerance.
This flexibility puts appchains at the center of several successful Web3 game ecosystems.
Real Examples of Subnets and Appchains in Action
- Ronin (Appchain): Built for Axie Infinity and now home to a growing portfolio of games.
- Avalanche Subnets: Used by game studios for high-speed environments and near-zero fees.
- Cosmos Appchains: Power Web3 MMOs with large player-driven economies and cross-chain asset transfers.
- SKALE Chains: Offer gas-free gameplay optimized for casual, mobile-friendly Web3 titles.
These ecosystems show that custom chains aren’t just a trend—they’re becoming the default architecture for serious Web3 games.
Challenges Developers Must Address
Even with dedicated chains, challenges remain:
- Infrastructure complexity: Maintaining validators or securing shared security options takes expertise.
- Bridging risks: Moving assets across chains must be carefully secured.
- Player onboarding: New users may be confused by multiple chains unless UX is streamlined.
- Ecosystem fragmentation: Too many isolated chains can reduce network effects.
Most successful studios solve these issues through strong tooling, simplified wallet flows, and hybrid on/off-chain designs.
Conclusion: Custom Chains Are the Backbone of Scalable Web3 Games
Subnets and appchains give developers the power to build high-performance, low-cost, player-first gaming worlds—something public chains alone can’t deliver. By controlling their own blockspace, tokenomics, and infrastructure, studios can ensure smooth gameplay at scale while keeping assets decentralized and interoperable.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of GameDegen.com. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. GameDegen.com is not responsible for any financial losses.
