Neal Stephenson, the New York Times best-selling author who first coined the term “metaverse” in his 1992 novel, has embarked on a groundbreaking blockchain-based project in collaboration with Wētā Workshop, the renowned special effects company behind iconic films such as The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.
In an announcement to Cointelegraph, Stephenson’s Lamina1 protocol revealed its latest endeavor, “Artefact,” a worldbuilding project that will set a new standard for intellectual property (IP) development and participatory worldbuilding. The project aims to create an infrastructure that invites fan input, expanding on the lore and themes established in Stephenson’s literary works.
Stephenson emphasized that this initiative is more than just another virtual world; it’s an innovative approach to worldbuilding, allowing creators and their communities to collaborate in shaping expansive, immersive environments. By teaming up with Wētā Workshop, the project seeks to chart a “new path” in digital worldbuilding, utilizing Lamina1’s blockchain-based creator economy and open metaverse platform to ensure long-term value.
“Artefact” will serve as Lamina1’s flagship project, demonstrating the capabilities of its blockchain infrastructure for major multimedia launches. The project will engage community creators, encouraging them to explore and expand the lore surrounding a set of “Artefacts.”
Lamina1 CEO Rebecca Barkin provided further insight into the project’s vision of the metaverse, describing it as an always-on virtual environment where people can participate in various stories, games, and experiences—without the need for a headset. Barkin highlighted the importance of creating a “narrative scaffolding” that includes interactive elements and audience engagement.
The project also advocates for an open metaverse, prioritizing transparency, inclusiveness, decentralization, and democratization as the boundaries between the physical and digital worlds continue to blur.
Reflecting on his original concept of the metaverse from Snow Crash, Stephenson noted that while the potential he envisioned remains, advancements in technology, particularly in affordable and high-quality 3D graphics, have opened up new possibilities for its execution.
