With the gaming world buzzing about integrating cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, the stakes have never been higher for developers. As big-time titles for consoles like Playstation and Xbox continue to dominate, the race is on to deliver the first blockbuster-quality AAA blockchain game. Enter “Shrapnel.”
A Game-Changer in the Making
Developed by Neon Machine, “Shrapnel” stands as a shining beacon of what’s to come in the hybrid world of crypto gaming. Recently, this anticipated title has secured a whopping $20 million in Series A financing, courtesy of the lead investor, Polychain Capital.
The financial backing for “Shrapnel” isn’t just a testament to its potential but also showcases the belief that industry bigwigs have in its success. Alongside Polychain Capital, other notable contributors included Griffin Gaming Partners, Brevan Howard Digital, Franklin Templeton, IOSG Ventures, and Tess Ventures. Notably, this comes on the heels of a 2021 seed round, during which Neon Machine garnered $10.5 million.
For those unfamiliar with the game, “Shrapnel” promises an exhilarating first-person shooter experience, reminiscent of gaming behemoths like Call of Duty. Crafted meticulously using the Unreal Engine 5, the game’s debut is slated for December. Initially, it will be available for paid users, but plans are afoot to make it free-to-play by 2024, opening doors for a broader gaming audience.
What the Funding Means for “Shrapnel”
As Neon Machine preps for the game’s launch, this financial boost couldn’t have come at a more opportune moment. The developers have teased a series of incremental playable releases in the near future. Among the anticipated features, gamers worldwide are particularly eager about the launch of the Shrapnel Marketplace. This platform will offer a space where in-game items can be purchased, traded, and flaunted.
But it’s not just about buying; it’s also about creating. Neon Machine is set to roll out tools for gamers to design their own skins, maps, and other game assets, fostering a vibrant player-centric ecosystem.
The Masterminds Behind the Scenes
The sheer potential of “Shrapnel” can be attributed to its powerhouse team. With past experiences working on global sensations like Halo, Call of Duty, and Star Wars, the crew is no stranger to delivering hits. Mark Long, the CEO of “Shrapnel,” envisions a game where players don’t just participate but also own and curate game assets, ushering in a new era of gaming.
While “Shrapnel” gears up to revolutionize the gaming landscape, it’s essential to recognize that it’s not alone. Titles like “Illuvium” and “Star Atlas” are also vying to merge AAA gameplay with blockchain technology.
Wrapping Up
In a nutshell, as boundaries between traditional gaming and crypto blur, “Shrapnel” is undoubtedly among the frontrunners catalyzing this transformation. With an ambitious vision, robust financial backing, and a seasoned team, the future looks promising for Neon Machine’s brainchild. Gamers, gear up! The future is closer than you think.
