ZKcandy Launches Mainnet, Targets 2M Users in Six Months

ZKcandy, a Layer-2 blockchain for AI-powered mobile gaming, launched its mainnet on April 8, following a successful testnet phase. The project is now live with eight web3 games and plans to onboard millions of users. Moreover, it is built on ZKsync’s Elastic Network and developed in partnership with iCandy Interactive.

The mainnet deployment comes after the platform secured $4 million in seed funding from Wemix Pte. Ltd., Animoca Ventures, and several angel investors. ZKcandy is one of the first gaming-focused ZK Chains to go live under ZKsync’s modular Layer-2 framework.

Testnet Results Show Early Traction

During the open testnet, users created more than 2.46 million wallets, and five games attracted a total of 230,000 active players. The team reports that these numbers make ZKcandy one of the most active chains in the ZKsync ecosystem to date.

Following the launch, players can now access eight titles, including Pepe Kingdom, Candy Defense, and Sugar Rush. All games run on-chain and are designed for mobile devices.

ZKcandy integrates artificial intelligence at the gameplay level. Its tools are used to build dynamic NPCs, unscripted narratives, and personalized game experiences.

The platform also supports account abstraction, allowing players to interact with blockchain-based games without managing private keys or paying gas fees. This is aimed at lowering the barrier to entry for mobile users unfamiliar with web3 tools.

Strategic Partnerships and Ecosystem Growth

ZKcandy has partnered with 19 projects, including Layer3, Rarible, and Aethir, to help grow its user base and developer network. Also, promotional campaigns tied to the Layer3 launchpad will support onboarding efforts.

To encourage participation, ZKcandy has allocated 5% of its native token supply to reward early users and testers. The platform also plans to open grant applications for developers building on the chain.

Hollywood IP Game in Development

ZKcandy is working with external studios to co-develop new games for the platform. One of these is based on a Tier-1 Hollywood intellectual property, which is already in development. No further details have been released.

CEO Kin Wai Lau commented on the launch, stating:

“Our testnet was a huge success, and this is only the beginning. We’re proud to bring Web3 gaming to a broader audience through mobile-first design, real IPs, and AI-driven experiences.”

Backed by iCandy and ZKsync

ZKcandy is developed in partnership with iCandy Interactive, the largest game developer in Southeast Asia. iCandy has worked on over 500 games and contributed to AAA titles such as The Last of Us and Spiderman.

The chain operates on ZKsync’s Elastic Network, a framework that enables low-cost, high-speed transactions and native interoperability between Layer-2 chains. ZKsync currently holds over $1.5 billion in total value locked.

Adoption Targets and Roadmap

The project is aiming to reach 2 million active users within the next six months. Upcoming milestones include the rollout of a mystery box campaign, further studio partnerships, and ecosystem token incentives.

ZKcandy is one of several ZK Chains focused on gaming and entertainment. Other chains in the network include Xsolla, Cronos, Abstract, and Sophon.