In a lively Xtalks session hosted by Kody, Chief Experience Officer at Layer One X, a diverse panel of Web 3 innovators gathered to explore the challenges and opportunities of crafting user experiences (UX) in the crypto and decentralized space. Episode 34, aired on April 9, 2025, tackled the theme “Building a Web 3 Experience” with a lineup of passionate speakers sharing their insights. Here’s a snapshot of the discussion.
Panel Introductions
Kody, alongside community manager Sam, welcomed an international cast:
- Gabriel: Creator of New Spirits, a game blending fun with real-world impact (20,000+ trees planted).
- Novara: Global community lead at Ginzo Kishi, a 15-year-old MMO RPG transitioning to Web 3.
- Jesper: Co-founder of SciFi Finance, prioritizing intuitive UX in DeFi.
- Jen Marie: Community strategist at Community Labs and a blockchain artist, bridging user and creator perspectives.
- Zoe: Co-founder of Introverse, focused on NFT engagement with a decade of UX expertise.
- Chris: Founder of Moonblast, a Launchpad enhancing investor UX with fractionalized vesting.
- Joel: Business development lead at Dash, a 10-year-old crypto prioritizing usability.
- Abud: CEO of Haven Compass, a free-to-play shooter integrating blockchain seamlessly.
- Jonathan: A crypto veteran since 2017, merging blockchain with his love for cars.
Key Discussion: Rethinking Web 3 UX
The panel dove into why Web 3 experiences often feel like Web 2 apps with crypto awkwardly tacked on. Gabriel kicked off, advocating for minimal onboarding steps, inspired by Web 2’s single sign-on successes, and envisioning a universal Web 3 passport. Joel highlighted Dash’s upcoming features—like usernames and contact lists—to simplify crypto as everyday money. Jesper emphasized meeting users where fintech left off, designing UX first and retrofitting tech, rather than the reverse.
Kody tied it together with a nod to cognitive conditioning—users expect familiarity (e.g., Apple’s navigation standards)—suggesting we “expand the box” gradually rather than force radical shifts. Jen Marie pushed for consumer-facing products (like Starbucks Odyssey) to lure users without Web 3 jargon, while Chris and Abud stressed avoiding overcomplication—don’t create problems just to solve them with blockchain.
What’s Next for Web 3?
The second half pivoted to whether we’re chasing the wrong “killer apps.” Joel argued for targeting niche, hardcore users first—like the unbanked thriving on crypto—then expanding outward, rather than aiming for instant mass adoption. Zoe proposed a “Web 2.5” bridge, layering Web 3 tools onto familiar platforms to ease the transition. Jonathan and Abud echoed that evolution takes time, drawing parallels to the internet’s slow shift from digital newspapers to social media newsfeeds.
Takeaways
The consensus? Web 3 UX must prioritize simplicity, education, and gradual adoption. Start with what works for dedicated users, refine it, and scale thoughtfully—avoiding the trap of mimicking Web 2 without purpose. Kody wrapped up, encouraging listeners to share the episode and follow the panelists, who earned their stripes with deep, actionable insights.
Join the Conversation
Missed it? Check the thread for Kody’s Psychology Today link on the “nine dot problem” and drop your questions for the panel in the comments. Mark your calendars for the next Xtalk on gaming challenges. Web 3’s UX revolution is just getting started—stay tuned!
