What is Ronin (RON)?

Deep Dive

1. Purpose & Value Proposition

Ronin was created by Sky Mavis (Axie Infinity’s developer) to solve scalability and cost issues in blockchain gaming. It processes transactions faster and cheaper than Ethereum, making it ideal for gaming economies. The chain expanded beyond Axie to host games like Pixels and Apeiron, while integrating DeFi protocols like Katana DEX.

2. Technology & Architecture

Originally an Ethereum sidechain, Ronin is transitioning to a Layer-2 using Optimism’s OP Stack (planned for Q1–Q2 2026). This upgrade will enhance security via Ethereum’s base layer while retaining low fees (~$0.001 per transaction). Its delegated proof-of-stake (DPoS) mechanism uses 22 validators, including Sky Mavis and community-elected nodes, to secure the network.

3. Tokenomics & Governance

• RON (1 billion max supply) is used for gas fees, staking, and governance voting.
• The Ronin Treasury funds ecosystem growth via fees from DEX trades, NFT sales, and name services. In 2025, it executed a $4.6M RON buyback to reduce circulating supply.
• A Proof-of-Distribution model redirects validator rewards to builders, incentivizing long-term development.

Conclusion

Ronin combines gaming infrastructure with Ethereum-aligned scalability, aiming to be the “gamification engine” for Web3. Its pivot to Layer-2 and strategic partnerships (e.g., Ragnarok, Coins.ph) signal ambitions beyond gaming into payments and DeFi. Can Ronin’s community-driven tokenomics outpace rival chains in attracting mainstream gamers?