- Playgama has raised $3 million in a funding round led by The Open Platform and s16vc, with support from FJ Labs, The Games Fund, and TON Ventures.
- The platform simplifies distribution for HTML5 game developers, offering a “master key” approach to accessing various platforms, languages, and markets.
- Playgama’s open-source SDK, Playgama Bridge, allows developers to integrate once and reach a wide audience, with over 1,000 developers using it.
- The company supports both Web2 and Web3 gaming, including play-to-earn mechanics and crypto payments, bridging the gap between traditional and blockchain gaming.
The UAE-based gametech startup Playgama has successfully raised $3 million in a funding round. This round was led by The Open Platform and s16vc, with participation from prominent investors such as FJ Labs, The Games Fund, TON Ventures, and Kirill Eves, the CEO and founder of Unlimit.
This funding will enable the company to accelerate its efforts in enhancing its platform for developers, expanding its range of tools, and integrating sophisticated analytics and fintech features.
Aiming to Transform the Web Gaming Market
Playgama, established in 2023 by Dmitry Kachmar, is dedicated to reshaping the landscape of web gaming. The company focuses on providing a centralized hub for HTML5 games, catering to players of all age groups. With an emphasis on simplifying game monetization and optimizing gaming experiences, Playgama aims to address the longstanding fragmentation in the HTML5 market.
Despite the global growth of the HTML5 gaming industry, the market lacks cohesion. Unlike platforms like the App Store for mobile games or Steam for PC titles, web gaming relies on scattered, standalone websites, social media, and regional platforms. Playgama’s mission is to unify these channels, allowing developers to reach broader and more diverse audiences.
Introducing a Unified Platform
Playgama’s solution lies in its Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) approach. This platform offers game developers all the tools they need to streamline distribution and simplify access to various markets.
At the core of this system is the Playgama Bridge, an open-source software development kit (SDK) that enables developers to integrate their games seamlessly across multiple platforms.
This innovative SDK, already embraced by over a thousand developers, empowers creators to focus on crafting engaging games rather than navigating complex distribution processes.
The company’s collaborations with The Open Platform and TON Ventures reflect its commitment to bridging the gap between Web2 and Web3 gaming. Playgama’s gaming portal supports play-to-earn mechanics and cryptocurrency payments, allowing developers to integrate modern financial tools into their games.
This forward-thinking approach positions the platform as a pioneer in merging traditional and decentralized gaming ecosystems.
The Growing Potential of the Middle East Gaming Market
The Middle East is becoming a vibrant hub for gaming innovation. As of November 2024, the region’s gaming market is valued at $6.34 billion, with projections estimating growth to $10.69 billion by 2029. This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.02%, showcasing significant opportunities for HTML5 gaming platforms like Playgama.
Playgama’s strategic location in Dubai allows it to leverage this regional growth while building a global presence. The company’s vision aligns with the evolving preferences of players and developers, making it a key player in the web gaming sector.
A Leader with a Vision
Playgama’s founder, Dmitry Kachmar, brings a unique blend of gaming passion and professional expertise to the table. A lifelong gamer, Kachmar established the company during a sabbatical while completing his studies at Harvard Business School. His background in advertising technologies and tech leadership enabled him to assemble a diverse and skilled international team.
The team, which includes professionals from leading companies like Miro, Playrix, and Easybrain, operates across various regions, including the United States, Europe, and Southeast Asia, with headquarters in Dubai.
Playgama’s platform prioritizes the needs of developers by offering a comprehensive toolkit that simplifies the process of launching and monetizing games.
The company’s approach emphasizes scalability, efficiency, and innovation. Through its distribution network, developers can potentially access over 200 million monthly active players, enabling them to reach audiences previously beyond their grasp.
Kachmar emphasizes the importance of transforming the industry. “We aim to empower HTML5 game creators by providing them with the tools to reach global audiences effortlessly,” he states. “This funding allows us to enhance our platform further, expand our toolkit, and introduce cutting-edge analytics and fintech solutions.”
Investor Confidence in Playgama
Investors have expressed strong support for Playgama’s innovative approach. Andrey Klebanov, Managing Director at The Open Platform, highlights the company’s ability to simplify access to diverse gaming platforms.
“Playgama’s end-to-end toolkit not only supports traditional platforms but also opens doors for fintech and crypto advancements,” Klebanov explains. “This provides both developers and players with unique opportunities in gaming and payments.”
The Future of HTML5 Gaming
With its cutting-edge platform, strategic partnerships, and a clear vision, Playgama is well-positioned to lead the transformation of the web gaming industry. By addressing the challenges of market fragmentation and offering developers a unified solution, the company is setting new standards for innovation in the gaming sector.
As the Middle East and global markets continue to grow, Playgama’s efforts to unify and enhance the HTML5 gaming landscape could pave the way for unprecedented opportunities for developers and players alike.
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