Coinbase-backed Ethereum Layer2 network Base is taking full control of its roadmap. The project announced it will phase out the Optimism OP Stack and roll out a proprietary unified technology stack.
New unified stack 'base/base' doubles hard fork frequency
The new architecture integrates all core components — sequencer, client releases, and more — into a single codebase named base/base. This change accelerates and simplifies updates. Base now plans six focused hard forks per year, twice the previous pace.
Developers face fewer hurdles, and node operators get an easier system to manage. “Over the coming months, Base is moving away from the OP Stack. However, we’ll continue to work with Optimism as a client of OP Enterprise: Mission-Critical Support. Once the transition is complete, upgrades and release information will be published through base/base,” the blog stated.
OP token dives as market questions Optimism’s role
Following the announcement, the native OP token dropped sharply, sliding as much as nearly 20% on the charts. Investors reassessed Optimism’s footprint in the Layer2 ecosystem — losing Base, its largest OP Stack adopter, is a blow to the network’s relevance.
Base assured compatibility with existing specs during the transition, so users and developers should face no immediate disruptions. The network also confirmed ongoing collaboration with Optimism, providing support through the migration.
Beyond tech: Base pushes decentralization and security
The move is not purely technical. Base plans to strengthen its Security Council by adding new signers, boosting decentralization. Future upgrades also include zero-knowledge proofs and an improved data availability layer.
Node operators will eventually need the new Base client to stay in sync. The team promised clear migration guidance.
Industry watchers see this as a broader Layer2 trend: networks seeking more control, speed, and autonomy. By cutting external dependencies, Base positions itself as a faster, leaner, and more independent chain.