The Race for AAA Blockchain Video Games
The competition to develop the first high-quality AAA blockchain video game that can rival popular console titles like Playstation and Xbox has been ongoing, but no clear frontrunner has emerged. However, one of the leading contenders, “Shrapnel,” has recently secured additional funding that could enhance its chances of success. Neon Machine, the company behind “Shrapnel,” has raised $20 million in Series A financing, with Polychain Capital as the lead investor.
Other participants in the funding round include Griffin Gaming Partners, Brevan Howard Digital, Franklin Templeton, IOSG Ventures, and Tess Ventures. This funding comes after a seed round of $10.5 million earlier this year when VC funding was declining.
“Shrapnel” is a first-person shooter game similar to the immensely popular Call of Duty franchise. It is built using Unreal Engine 5 and is set to launch in December, initially for paid users. The game will eventually transition into a free-to-play model for the general public by 2024.
Funding at a Critical Time
Neon stated that this funding arrives at a crucial moment as they prepare for incremental playable releases in the coming months. Key milestones include launching the Shrapnel Marketplace, where in-game items can be bought and traded, as well as further developing creator tools for players to design skins, maps, and other in-game assets.
Other notable blockchain gaming projects aiming to deliver AAA-level gameplay include “Illuvium” and “Star Atlas.”
The team behind “Shrapnel” boasts experience working on games for renowned brands such as Halo, Call of Duty, and Star Wars. Mark Long, CEO of “Shrapnel,” envisions creating a blockbuster-quality shooter where players have true ownership and the ability to create game assets.
Hot Take: The Pursuit of AAA Blockchain Games
The quest to develop high-quality AAA blockchain video games continues, with “Shrapnel” positioning itself as a strong contender. With significant funding secured and a team experienced in developing games for top franchises, “Shrapnel” aims to deliver an immersive shooter experience that empowers players to own and create game assets. As the blockchain gaming industry evolves, projects like “Shrapnel,” “Illuvium,” and “Star Atlas” pave the way for a new era of gaming where decentralization and player ownership take center stage.
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