Link copied 
In 2023, the popularity of the metaverse concept has noticeably declined, according to Google Trends data. The surge that defined its peak in 2021 and 2022 has significantly diminished, leading many experts to believe that the hype around the concept has waned.
However, there are still projects committed to developing in the metaverse space. One such initiative is Lamina1, a blockchain-based metaverse project led by Neal Stephenson, the author who introduced the term "metaverse" to popular culture with his 1992 novel, "Snow Crash."
Lamina1 has recently announced an upcoming event called Open Metaverse Discovery Month scheduled for October. This month-long campaign will feature interactive workshops, quests, and bounties, with the primary goal of equipping potential builders and creators with the tools and knowledge needed to create unique metaverse experiences. The event will include interactive sessions for Unity and Unreal Engine developers, as well as Creator Competitions for participants to showcase their creative works on the Lamina1 Hub platform.
While the broader sentiment around the metaverse may be skeptical, Lamina1's CEO, Rebecca Barkin, remains optimistic about its potential. She emphasizes that despite setbacks, including the crypto winter and perceptions of the metaverse's demise, Lamina1 has successfully built a community of nearly 50,000 enthusiastic builders since its inception.
Barkin envisions a bright future for the metaverse, particularly as long as individuals remain interested in digital gaming, virtual world-building, and the trading of digital items. She believes that Neal Stephenson's vision was never solely about creating digital realms but was a call to challenge dominant corporate structures and empower creators in various fields, enabling them to design, craft, and share their worlds autonomously.
While the metaverse hype may have diminished, projects like Lamina1 still see tremendous potential driven by innovation and the spirit of independence.
