Neon Machine, a gaming developer in the Web3 space, has recently secured $20 million in a Series A funding round to advance its highly anticipated extraction shooter game called ‘Shrapnel’. The funding round was led by Polychain Capital and received significant support from Brevan Howard Digital, Franklin Templeton, Griffin Gaming Partners, IOSG Ventures, and Tess Ventures. This comes after Neon Machine raised $10.5 million in June 2021, demonstrating the strong interest and confidence in the company and its game.
Shrapnel, described as an AAA game, aims to deliver a thrilling first-person shooter experience with multiplayer features similar to popular titles like ‘Call of Duty: Warzone’ by Activision Blizzard. The game is set to be available to paid subscribers in December and will transition to a ‘free-to-play’ model sometime in 2024, opening it up to a larger player base.
Although still in the pre-alpha testing phase, early gameplay footage of Shrapnel showcases captivating competitive elements centered around “extraction” mechanics. These mechanics utilize in-game assets on the blockchain, providing players with added security for their possessions and protection from rivals. Furthermore, the integration of blockchain technology brings a new level of ownership and value to the gaming experience.
In addition to the extraction mechanics, Shrapnel boasts a modding toolset that empowers both developers and players to incorporate additional blockchain-based assets into the game’s ecosystem. This opens up opportunities for more tournament plays and seasonal competitions within the community, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Highlighting their commitment to Web3 technology and opportunities, Neon Machine recently announced plans to license their Web3 developer’s API platform, GameBridge. By making this platform available to other developers, Neon Machine aims to drive further innovation and collaboration within the Web3 gaming industry, ultimately advancing the adoption of blockchain technology in gaming.
The success of Neon Machine’s funding round and the development of Shrapnel further exemplify the growing interest and investment in the Web3 gaming space. With the backing of prominent investors and a team with experience in developing blockbuster games like Call of Duty, West World, and Halo, Neon Machine is well-positioned to deliver an exceptional gaming experience that embraces the benefits of blockchain technology.
The funding raised will be instrumental in accelerating the development and launch of Shrapnel, allowing Neon Machine to invest in cutting-edge technology, game design, and marketing strategies. This financial support ensures that Shrapnel has the resources needed to become a standout AAA game in the competitive gaming market.
The rise of Web3 gaming presents exciting opportunities for players and developers alike. By leveraging blockchain technology, games like Shrapnel can offer unique features, such as secure ownership of in-game assets and opportunities for player-driven economies. As more developers explore the potential of Web3, we can expect to see a revolution in the gaming industry, with increased player engagement, new creative possibilities, and a more inclusive and decentralized gaming ecosystem.
It’s important to note that Neon Machine’s success and the potential of Web3 gaming also draw attention to the broader impact of blockchain technology beyond finance. The integration of blockchain into gaming not only enhances gameplay but also introduces novel concepts of ownership, value, and digital scarcity. These developments have the potential to reshape various industries, including art, collectibles, and virtual goods.
Overall, Neon Machine’s $20 million funding round for Shrapnel reinforces the growing interest and investment in Web3 gaming. With a strong development team and the support of notable investors, the game is poised to make a significant impact in the gaming industry. As the launch date approaches, players can anticipate a thrilling first-person shooter experience with multiplayer features and innovative blockchain integration. The success of games like Shrapnel will continue to drive the adoption and evolution of Web3 technology, offering new possibilities for the future of gaming.
