Neon Machine, a Web3 gaming developer, recently secured $20 million in Series A funding for the development of their highly-anticipated game, Shrapnel. This comes after their successful $10.5 million seed round in June 2021. But what makes Shrapnel so unique? Let’s dive into the details and explore the world of this blockchain-based Call of Duty competitor.
About the Company
Neon Machine is a game development company with a talented team whose combined experience spans the entertainment industry. They’ve worked on renowned titles like Halo, Call of Duty, and Westworld. With such an impressive resume, it’s no wonder they’re generating a buzz in the gaming world.
Shrapnel: The Ambitious Game
Shrapnel is Neon Machine’s ambitious project, labeled as a AAA game. In the gaming industry, “AAA” signifies a top-tier game with high production values, a substantial budget, and an extensive marketing campaign. It’s set to be a first-person shooter with a focus on multiplayer gameplay.
About the Funding
The Series A funding, totaling $20 million, was led by Polychain Capital and featured contributions from various investors, including Griffin Gaming Partners, Brevan Howard Digital, Franklin Templeton, IOSG Ventures, and Tess Ventures. This financial support is crucial for the game’s development, ensuring it reaches its full potential.
Unique Features of Shrapnel
Shrapnel distinguishes itself from other AAA games with its innovative use of Web3 and blockchain technology. While games like The Division 2 allow players to “extract” valuable in-game items, Shrapnel takes it a step further by connecting these assets to the blockchain. This means players have complete ownership over their in-game assets.
Release Plans
For those eager to jump into the action, Shrapnel will be available for early-access testing in December for paid subscribers. After this initial phase, Neon Machine plans to release the game as a free-to-play title in 2024, allowing gamers worldwide to join the action.
Neon Machine doesn’t stop at Shrapnel; they have big plans for the future. They intend to license their Web3 developer’s API platform, GameBridge, after Shrapnel’s launch. This move suggests that Neon Machine is dedicated to furthering the integration of blockchain technology in the gaming industry.
Conclusion
Neon Machine‘s $20 million Series A funding for Shrapnel is a testament to the growing interest in blockchain-based gaming. With the backing of experienced professionals and a commitment to innovation, Shrapnel promises to be a game-changer in the world of multiplayer shooters.
FAQs
What is a “AAA” game?
A “AAA” game is a term used in the gaming industry to describe a top-tier game with high production values, a substantial budget, and extensive marketing efforts. These games are often characterized by their exceptional quality and innovation.
How does blockchain integration benefit Shrapnel players?
Blockchain integration in Shrapnel offers players complete ownership over in-game assets, ensuring that the items they acquire are truly theirs. This opens up opportunities for trading and customizing assets in ways not possible in traditional games.
What is the GameBridge API platform, and how does it relate to Neon Machine’s future plans?
GameBridge is Neon Machine’s Web3 developer’s API platform. Neon Machine intends to license this platform after Shrapnel’s launch, indicating their commitment to furthering the integration of blockchain technology in the gaming industry. This move will likely pave the way for more blockchain-based games and applications.
