Dymension is a modular Layer 1 blockchain built using the Cosmos SDK, designed to seamlessly interact with the broader Cosmos ecosystem through the Inter-Blockchain Communication (IBC) protocol.
The Dymension network hosts a variety of application-specific rollups known as RollApps. These RollApps serve as user-facing applications that can range from games and DeFi platforms to NFT marketplaces, all running on top of Dymension's secure base layer.
Understanding Dymension’s Architecture
Dymension’s structure is built around three core components, creating a cohesive and scalable ecosystem for decentralized applications.
Generally speaking, RollApps are application-specific rollups (a type of Layer 2 blockchain) that operate within Dymension’s modular blockchain framework. Instead of bearing the high costs of maintaining their own validators, RollApps leverage the security and consensus provided by the Dymension Hub.
The main components of the Dymension architecture.
RollApps
RollApps are rollups tailored for specific applications and are developed using the Dymension RDK (RollApp Development Kit).
The Dymension RDK is built by extending and modifying modules from the Cosmos SDK, ensuring that all RollApps are natively compatible with the Cosmos ecosystem.
The Dymension RDK framework consists of two primary elements:
The Dymension RDK has two main parts: the server (application) and the client (dymint).
Furthermore, the Dymension RDK allows RollApps to deploy smart contracts using popular frameworks, including EVMOS EVM, Polaris EVM, and CosmWasm.
RollApps can interact with any blockchain that supports the Inter-Blockchain Communication (IBC) protocol and utilizes the Dymension Hub. This makes every RollApp a part of the expansive IBC ecosystem. A key differentiator for RollApps is that they delegate their consensus mechanism to the Dymension Hub, rather than to the Cosmos Hub like other app-chains in the Cosmos network.
The Dymension Hub
The Dymension Hub is a blockchain that uses a decentralized Delegated Proof-of-Stake (DPoS) consensus algorithm and has DYM as its native token. It serves as the validation, security, and liquidity center for all RollApps within the network.
The Dymension Hub provides RollApps and the broader ecosystem with:
The Dymension Hub AMM enables the trading of assets within the Dymension ecosystem.
Key Features of Dymension
Dymension is currently in its testnet phase, with several key features accessible through its portal, including RollApp deployment, Hub analytics, IBC Bridge, and Liquidity pools.
RollApp Dashboard
The RollApp dashboard aggregates data related to all the RollApps developed within the Dymension ecosystem. It provides statistics such as:
The RollApp interface on the Dymension Portal.
Hub Analytics
The Hub page offers a comprehensive and visual overview of the entire Dymension blockchain. It includes metrics like block time, the number of active RollApps, the value of assets transferred via IBC, the total supply of DYM tokens, validator information, and staking data.
The Hub feature interface on Dymension.
IBC Bridge
Dymension integrates the IBC Bridge, allowing users to transfer assets (tokens) directly between different blockchains or RollApps quickly and seamlessly on the Dymension platform.
The integrated IBC Bridge feature on Dymension.
Liquidity Pools
The Liquidity section of Dymension includes features for:
The token swap interface on Dymension.
Notable Advantages of Dymension
Dymension offers several standout features:
- Scalability for Applications: By handling execution on RollApps and settling on the Hub, Dymension enables high transaction throughput.
- Reduced Development Complexity: The Dymension RDK provides developers with a ready-made kit to build and deploy application-specific blockchains easily.
- Shared Security: RollApps benefit from the economic security provided by the Dymension Hub's validator set, eliminating the need to bootstrap their own security.
- Native Interoperability: Built on IBC, Dymension RollApps can natively communicate and transfer assets with over 50+ chains in the Cosmos network.
- Liquidity Accessibility: The built-in AMM on the Hub provides immediate liquidity for assets within the ecosystem.
What Is the DYM Token?
DYM is the native token of the Dymension blockchain. It plays a vital role in securing the network, incentivizing growth, and ensuring the sustainability of RollApps within the ecosystem.
DYM Token Key Metrics
As of now, Dymension has not yet launched its mainnet, and the DYM token is not live. Key metrics such as total supply and initial circulating supply will be confirmed at the mainnet launch.
DYM Token Allocation
The planned allocation for the DYM token is as follows:
Detailed information on DYM token allocation.
DYM Token Release Schedule
The planned token release schedule for DYM.
How to Claim the DYM Token Airdrop
Airdrop Information
On January 3, 2024, the project announced its first airdrop, "Rolldrop Season 1: Genesis Rolldrop," for eligible users.
Dymension's announcement of the Genesis Rolldrop airdrop.
Users became eligible for the DYM airdrop if they had previously:
The total airdrop allocation was 7% of the total DYM token supply, equivalent to 70,000,000 DYM tokens. The claim period for the Genesis Rolldrop concluded on January 21, 2024. Users who did not claim their tokens by this deadline are no longer eligible.
👉 Check the latest airdrop opportunities
How to Claim Airdropped Tokens
The claim process involved visiting the official Genesis Rolldrop website, connecting a wallet, and following the on-screen instructions to claim tokens if eligible. This process is now closed for the Genesis event.
Development Roadmap and Updates
Dymension has not yet released a detailed public roadmap for its development throughout 2024 and beyond. Updates on future plans, including mainnet launch and further RollApp development, are expected to be announced through the project's official channels.
Project Team, Investors, and Partners
Dymension successfully closed a private funding round on February 9, 2023, raising $6.7 million. The round was led by Big Brain Holdings and Stratos, with participation from other investors, including Matchbox DAO and Shalom Meckenzie of DraftKings.
Specific details regarding the core project team and official partners have not been publicly disclosed at this time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of Dymension?
Dymension aims to make it easy for developers to launch their own scalable application-specific blockchains (RollApps) by providing a secure settlement layer (the Hub) and a powerful development kit (the RDK). Its goal is to become an internet of rollups.
How is Dymension different from other Layer 1 blockchains?
Unlike monolithic L1s, Dymension is modular. It separates execution (handled by RollApps) from consensus and settlement (handled by the Hub). This design allows for greater scalability and flexibility for developers.
What is the use case for the DYM token?
The DYM token is used for securing the network through staking, paying for transaction fees and settlement on the Hub, participating in governance, and providing liquidity in the ecosystem's AMM.
Can I still get DYM tokens after the airdrop?
Once the mainnet is live, users will be able to acquire DYM tokens through supported cryptocurrency exchanges or by participating in network activities like staking and providing liquidity. 👉 Explore secure trading platforms
Is Dymension only for developers?
While developers use Dymension to build RollApps, end-users interact with these RollApps for gaming, DeFi, and other dApps. Users may also stake DYM tokens to help secure the network and earn rewards.
How does Dymension ensure the security of RollApps?
RollApps inherit security from the Dymension Hub. The Hub's validators, who stake DYM tokens, are responsible for validating the state of all connected RollApps, making it economically costly to attack any single application.