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ERC-1155

ERC-1155 is a multi-token standard on Ethereum that allows a single smart contract to manage both fungible and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Introduced by Enjin and standardized through EIP-1155, it provides a more efficient and flexible alternative to earlier standards like ERC-20 and ERC-721.

ERC-1155 is widely used in gaming, metaverse, and digital collectibles, where multiple types of tokens — such as in-game currencies, equipment, or skins — need to be handled under one contract. This reduces gas costs and simplifies asset management for developers and users.

How ERC-1155 Works

  1. Unified Token Contract – One contract can manage multiple token types (both fungible and non-fungible).
  2. Token IDs and Amounts – Each token is identified by a unique ID and can have a quantity (amount), making it suitable for batch minting.
  3. Batch Operations – Supports batch transfers and approvals to reduce gas fees and simplify interactions.
  4. Metadata Mapping – Token metadata is linked via URIs using a standardized format with ID substitution.
  5. Interface Support – Includes functions like balanceOf, safeTransferFrom, setApprovalForAll, and batch versions of these.

Key Features

  • Multi-Token Management – One contract for managing multiple assets and token types.
  • Batch Transfers – Allows sending or receiving multiple tokens in a single transaction.
  • Gas Efficiency – Reduces network fees by consolidating logic into fewer contracts.
  • Flexible Token Logic – Can be used for fungible, semi-fungible, or non-fungible tokens.
  • Event Standardization – Emits standardized events for tracking transfers and approvals.

Benefits of ERC-1155

  • Optimized for Gaming – Perfect for complex economies with many token types (e.g., items, currencies, skins).
  • Improved Scalability – Fewer contracts on-chain reduces congestion and lowers deployment cost.
  • Developer Efficiency – Simplifies token creation, minting, and management.
  • User Convenience – Enables managing multiple assets in one wallet interface.
  • Marketplace Compatibility – Widely supported by platforms like OpenSea, LooksRare, and Blur.

Use Cases of ERC-1155

  1. Game Items – Games like The Sandbox and Gods Unchained use ERC-1155 for items, weapons, and collectibles.
  2. Batch NFT Drops – Artists or projects mint multiple editions or types of NFTs in a single contract.
  3. Event Tickets – Different tiers of tickets (VIP, General, etc.) represented under one contract.
  4. Metaverse Assets – Projects bundle land, avatars, and gear using ERC-1155 for streamlined deployment.
  5. Loyalty and Rewards Systems – Programs issue both point-based tokens and collectibles from a single source.
  6. Hybrid Economies – Protocols combine fungible governance tokens and non-fungible access passes under one standard.

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