Gala Games Introduces Phased Approach to Founder Node Staking

In a strategic move to enhance the long-term sustainability of its ecosystem, Gala Games has announced a series of significant updates to its Founder Node Staking program. These changes, set to begin on June 16, 2025, aim to align network incentives with the overall health and utility of GalaChain, according to Gala News.

Phased Rollout of New Staking Model

The upcoming changes introduce a phased approach to how Founder Node rewards are calculated. Initially, node rewards will be determined by the amount of $GALA held in a participant’s GalaChain Wallet. To receive full rewards, operators must hold at least 1 million $GALA per node. Those holding less will receive proportional rewards. This requirement is expected to evolve to a locking mechanism in the third quarter of 2025.

Additionally, the previous requirement of maintaining a 20,000-node minimum online threshold is being removed. Daily $GALA distributions will continue under the existing emissions schedule, independent of the number of nodes active at any given time.

Introduction of the $GSTAKE Token

A notable aspect of the update is the introduction of a new token, $GSTAKE, which can be used as an alternative to $GALA for node staking. Initially, $GSTAKE will be equivalent to $GALA, with tokens being minted through eligible NFT exchanges or purchases. Details on eligible NFTs and conversion values will be provided before the Phase 2 launch. The $GSTAKE token will be native to GalaChain, facilitating transfers and trades on platforms like Gala Connect and Gala Swap.

Detailed Phased Rollout

The phased rollout of these updates includes:

• Phase 1: Launching on June 16, 2025, node rewards will be based on $GALA holdings.
• Phase 2: Scheduled for late June 2025, this phase introduces $GSTAKE and NFT exchanges.
• Phase 3: Anticipated in Q3 2025, nodes will transition from holding to locking $GALA or $GSTAKE for rewards.
• Phase 4: Expected in Q3 2025, a $GSTAKE lending program will allow operators to share surplus tokens for rewards.

Community and Future Implications

Gala Games acknowledges that these changes may not suit all node operators, potentially affecting participation levels. However, they emphasize adaptability and ongoing community engagement as central to the evolution of Gala and GalaChain. The modifications are intended to build upon the existing legacy with a more dynamic and ecosystem-aligned model.

These updates reflect Gala Games’ commitment to fostering a sustainable and robust ecosystem, ensuring that node operators have a direct role in shaping the network’s future. As the phases roll out, Gala Games will continue to monitor performance and gather community feedback to make necessary adjustments.