Co-founder of Ethereum, Vitalik Buterin, expressed concerns on February 5 through social media platform X, arguing that the rapidly rising Layer 2 (L2) projects are jeopardizing Ethereum’s long-term vision. Buterin criticized several emerging networks for merely copying existing templates instead of fostering technical innovation, thus constraining the ecosystem’s evolution. Addressing a U.S.-based developer community, he specifically targeted Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatible chains, which operate on a “copy-paste” philosophy. For Ethereum to achieve its scalability goals, Buterin emphasized, it requires original architectures instead of superficial solutions.
Criticism of Duplicate L2 Models
In his statement on February 5, Buterin articulated that many of the new L2 networks originate from routine and convenience rather than technical necessity. Developers, he observed, often create chains based on the Ethereum Virtual Machine and release them by integrating a delayed “optimistic bridge.” This approach, he noted, resembles the “Compound forking” trend previously popular in DAO governance.
Buterin argued that this repetitive method stifles creativity and limits the industry’s imagination. He claimed that the networks superficially connected to Ethereum do not offer genuine scaling contributions and claimed that this trend is leading the ecosystem down a cul-de-sac. Projects associated with Ethereum only through branding tend to be technically weak, he emphasized.
The co-founder adopted a harsher stance against EVM chains without even an Ethereum bridge. Such projects, he stated, harm both the ecosystem and consumer confidence. He also stated that there is no need for new first-layer networks. Buterin reminded that the Ethereum mainnet will continue to expand block space until 2026 and that the foundational layer is already progressing towards scalability.
Emphasis on Genuine Connection and Security
Buterin’s recent remarks continue his earlier criticisms about some L2 projects failing to fully inherit Ethereum’s security. Despite many networks portraying themselves as natural extensions of Ethereum, he argued that they are poorly connected to the main chain in practice. With lower mainnet fees and higher gas limits, it is no longer necessary for L2s to function like “branded shards.”
The renowned developer advocated for projects to align their technical realities with the public image they present. Emphasizing “Perception must match content,” Buterin criticized ventures that use the Ethereum connection solely as a marketing tool. Promoting without real integration undermines the credibility of the ecosystem, he stated.
Buterin shared two fundamental models he finds reasonable. In the first, applications like prediction markets manage accounts and settle on the mainnet while processing transactions via rollup. The second model involves institutional structures like state record systems publishing cryptographic proofs on Ethereum for transparency. While not fully decentralized, such systems need to be positioned openly, he insisted.
