After Vitalik questioned the scalability models of Layer 2 solutions, Arbitrum, Optimism, and Base responded in turn, addressing concerns and clarifying their approaches to scaling and security.

According to Mars Finance, multiple L2 builders have responded following Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin’s comment that “the original vision of Layer 2 as the main scaling engine is no longer applicable.” They generally agree that Rollup needs to go beyond the positioning of “cheaper Ethereum,” but there are differences on whether scaling should still be its core role. Optimism co-founder Karl Floersch expressed support for the challenge of building a modular L2 stack that supports “full-spectrum decentralization,” while acknowledging current major obstacles such as long withdrawal periods, proof of second-phase readiness, and insufficient cross-chain application tools. He supports Buterin’s emphasis on native Rollup pre-compiled solutions. Arbitrum developer Offchain Labs co-founder Steven Goldfeder takes a firmer stance, believing that although Rollup models have evolved, scaling remains the core value of L2. He pointed out that Arbitrum was not built as “a service for Ethereum,” but because Ethereum provides a high-security, low-cost settlement layer that makes large-scale Rollups possible. He warned that if Ethereum is perceived as hostile to Rollups, institutions might choose to launch independent Layer 1 chains instead of deploying on Ethereum. Jesse Pollak, head of Base, stated that Ethereum L1 scaling is “a victory for the entire ecosystem,” and agreed that L2 should not just be “cheaper Ethereum.” He mentioned that Base is differentiating itself through applications, account abstraction, and privacy features, and is working toward second-phase decentralization. StarkWare CEO Eli Ben-Sasson hinted that some ZK-native L2s (like Starknet) believe they already fulfill the specialized role described by Buterin. The entire Ethereum ecosystem is facing a roadmap adjustment: the base layer aims to enhance its capabilities, while L2 is being repositioned as a dedicated environment serving different technological needs.