Opinion: The real value of Layer2s is an “experimental innovation sandbox”

This is a very meaningful perspective, and it seems to be the most positive interpretation of Ethereum's layer 2 that we've seen in a while: the true value of layer 2s is as an "experimental innovation sandbox." For example, @arbitrum can explore DAO governance, @Optimism can implement the RetroPGF funding mechanism, @base can experiment with CEX integration, and @zksync can advance account abstraction. These innovations would be too risky if implemented directly on mainnet, but even if they fail on layer 2, they won't endanger the entire ecosystem. Interestingly, it seems that different layer 2s can serve completely different user groups, such as enterprise chains focused on compliance, privacy chains touted as censorship-resistant, and gaming chains capable of high-frequency trading. Looking back, there are quite a few layer2+layer3 solutions built on various stacks. While none of them have become the promised savior for Ethereum, they have certainly made remarkable contributions in terms of the "diversity" of experimental scalability solutions. Of course, one could argue that they all ultimately aim to issue tokens, but the underlying logic is that they at least, to a certain extent, continue and inherit Ethereum's decentralized security features. Otherwise, the independent, proprietary layer1 approach pursued by current star products like @HyperliquidX and some Wall Street giants may achieve a smooth user experience upgrade, but they essentially sacrifice decentralization for extreme performance. Furthermore, these independent chains are likely to issue tokens, and while their work may be fundamentally no different from, or even inferior to, layer2, this step completely negates the layer2 experimentation field. Therefore, there's a clear path for Layer 2. Abandoning the all-encompassing vision of general-purpose chains and exploring specific chains tailored to the needs of mass adoption is the right path. For example, these include how to introduce renowned gaming IPs, meet privacy and regulatory compliance requirements, serve the high-frequency interaction needs of AI agents, and provide compliant listing channels for RWA assets. In other words, if Layer 2s abandons its focus on purely technical architecture, abandons the all-encompassing obsession with general-purpose chains, and focuses on business integration with TradFi, the Layer 2 landscape may not be as bleak as many imagine.