OpenSea has officially launched its OS2 platform, a major update that introduces a new user interface and an experience points (XP) system aimed at encouraging greater user participation. The platform, which is currently in private beta, offers exclusive early access to holders of Gemesis NFTs, a move that has drawn significant backlash from long-time users. These users, many of whom have been integral to OpenSea’s success, expressed frustration at being excluded from the beta despite their extensive activity and contributions to the platform.
The OS2 platform brings several notable changes to OpenSea’s user interface, aiming to make navigation more intuitive and provide a more streamlined experience for its users. One of the most notable additions is the XP system, which allows users to accumulate points for actions such as listing items, making offers on collections, and interacting with the platform’s Discord community. This system is designed to incentivise frequent activity and participation across the platform, increasing engagement levels.
In addition to the 15,000 beta testers who already had access to the OS2 beta (with more being added daily), the 49,785 Gemesis NFT holders now have beta access to the platform, following a snapshot of eligible wallets.
The decision to base access to the OS2 private beta on Gemesis NFT ownership has caused widespread dissatisfaction among OpenSea’s existing user base. Many users, particularly high-volume traders who have contributed millions in fees to the platform, expressed frustration at being excluded from the beta. Some argue that OpenSea should have rewarded its broader community of loyal users with access to the new platform, possibly through an airdrop or other inclusive method, rather than creating a barrier based on NFT ownership.
The XP system itself has also drawn comparisons to the reward systems of competing platforms, particularly Blur. Some users believe the XP system resembles the “farming” model used by Blur, where users are incentivised to perform specific actions, such as placing bids, in order to earn rewards. The community argue that this approach prioritizes activity over genuine engagement with the platform, raising concerns that it could lead to behavior that is more transactional than community-focused.
In response to the backlash, OpenSea CEO and Co-Founder Devin Finzer addressed the concerns on social media, emphasizing that the platform had not forgotten its early supporters. Despite the reassurance, many users remain skeptical about the platform’s priorities.
