Prior to the introduction of STEM, which powers life in the metaverse, Upland is piloted the token with PROTEM, while it was in the development stage. Since Upland utilizes the blockchain, actions are final and having a temporary token can PROTEM exists so that Upland can do necessary testing with the temporary token before introducing STEM.
The first simulation of life forms was represented by totems. Each totem is a unique 1 of 1 living map asset with its own traits. To nurture your totem you will need to spend PROTEM to keep them healthy. In return, the totem will generate more PROTEM. This mini-game will serve to simulate the interaction between STEM/PROTEM and Life, and the objective of the game will be to generate as much PROTEM as possible.
During the blossom season 2026, life will enter the metaverse, and PROTEM will be converted to STEM at a ratio of 1 PROTEM = 1000 STEM. STEM will also become permanently available in the Upland Store as a rate of $1 for 1000 STEM. STEM is not tradeable, and it won’t ever be. You can think of STEM as fuel, which exists to create Life. Unlike UPX, STEM isn’t pegged to anything, and Upland may adjust how much STEM it costs to ensure gameplay stays balanced as Life expands.
