In a bold move that reflects shifting dynamics in the NFT and Web3 gaming landscape, Aavegotchi has officially migrated from the Polygon network to Base. This strategic pivot was driven by a decisive community vote and marks a significant turning point for one of the most recognized NFT protocols in the ecosystem.

The shift to Base follows months of stagnation on Polygon, where growth metrics like total value locked (TVL) have continued to decline. Once boasting nearly $10 billion in TVL during its peak, Polygon now holds around $725 million, a figure that pales in comparison to Base and Arbitrum, both of which currently sit above the $2 billion mark. For a protocol built on community engagement and constant innovation, the declining momentum on Polygon raised concerns about future sustainability.

Pixelcraft Studios, the team behind Aavegotchi, framed the decision as a logical evolution. “Given our close relationship with the Base team, we believe this is the most +EV move for Aavegotchi right now,” said the studio’s founder, underscoring the sentiment that this transition aligns with both technical advantages and strategic partnerships. The migration was not taken lightly—93.5% of community members voted in favor of deploying smart contracts on Base, highlighting strong collective confidence in the new direction.

Dan, the founder of Aavegotchi, further explained the reasoning behind the decision. “Polygon has not shipped any significant updates or features to enhance ecosystem coherence or discovery for gaming,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of innovation in maintaining a vibrant user base. In contrast, Base, which launched under Coinbase in 2023, offers advanced optimistic rollup technology designed to enhance scalability and user experience—critical elements for a protocol operating at the intersection of gaming and decentralized finance.

Beyond technological motivations, external economic factors have also played a role. The broader crypto market has been rattled by policy shifts, including recent tariff proposals from former President Donald Trump. These changes have introduced volatility across the sector, particularly in the NFT and meme coin markets. Aavegotchi’s move to Base, therefore, serves not only as a technological upgrade but also as a defensive strategy against uncertain market conditions.

To adapt further, the project has implemented cost-cutting measures, including staff reductions, aimed at extending operational runway during the ongoing downturn. These tough but necessary decisions reflect the realities many Web3 projects face today, where long-term survival often hinges on quick, decisive adaptation.

Aavegotchi’s migration is more than a reaction to market stagnation—it’s a forward-looking recalibration. In choosing Base, the protocol is positioning itself to capture new opportunities, improve user onboarding, and remain competitive in a space where innovation is the key to endurance. The overwhelming community support for this transition reveals a shared belief in the future potential of Base, suggesting that Aavegotchi is not retreating from challenges but embracing them head-on with a refreshed strategic vision.