A new animated series for kids, titled ‘Owen Nowhere,’ is set to premiere this year on an unconventional platform – a decentralized web platform utilizing blockchain technology. We Ghosted Media, the production studio behind the show, is shaking up traditional content distribution methods by teaming up with Lamina1, a Layer 1 blockchain platform founded by acclaimed author Neal Stephenson.
Overview of ‘Owen Nowhere’
The series follows Owen B. Gloom, a preteen aspiring content creator, as he documents his family’s road trip to unusual tourist attractions. The show features a unique family dynamic, including Owen’s adoptive vampire parents, a magical transforming vehicle, and various pets. However, ‘Owen Nowhere’ is more than just a show – it’s an immersive experience that allows fans to engage with the world and contribute their ideas for the series.
Interactive Elements
Viewers will be able to participate in key decisions for the story, such as suggesting destinations for the family’s adventures. The virtual space will also include exclusive behind-the-scenes content, collectible digital assets, and online community-driven experiences like voting. “We were thinking [fans could] vote for where the Glooms can travel next,” said Chris Jammal, co-founder of We Ghosted Media. “Maybe they want to buy that souvenir that Owen picked up at the Grand Canyon [as] their own digital asset.”
Challenges and Concerns
While the show has all the ingredients to resonate with viewers, there are challenges ahead. One major hurdle is convincing parents to manage a crypto wallet for their child. Parents may worry about exposing their kids to financial manipulation or loss. Lamina1 CEO Rebecca Barkin acknowledged the concern, stating, “It’s a big topic of discussion…we’re going to learn real fast as this develops, what protections need to be put in place.”
Addressing Parental Concerns
To address these concerns, the platform may need to implement transparency and parental controls. The digital assets associated with ‘Owen Nowhere’ are positioned as a way for fans to be involved in the show and contribute financially to its production. These assets can be used as loyalty tokens, granting access to exclusive content and rewarding creative contributions to the community.
Launch and Future Plans
Lamina1’s Spaces product, where ‘Owen Nowhere’ will be hosted, is slated to launch in the fall. The platform has already garnered significant attention, with another virtual world, ‘Artefact,’ by visual effects company Wētā, set to launch alongside it. Lamina1 has raised $9 million to date from notable investors, including LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman.
