Blockchain Gaming Company Neon Machine Secures $20 Million in Series A Funding for Development of Game 'Shrapnel'

Led by former HBO executives and backed by Polychain Capital, Neon Machine's blockchain-enabled shooter game Shrapnel offers player-owned in-game assets and a creator ecosystem, with early access set to launch in December and free version planned for 2024.

Neon Machine, a blockchain gaming company formed by former HBO executives, recently closed a $20 million Series A funding round primarily for the development of its debut blockchain-enabled shooter game, 'Shrapnel'. The round was led by Polychain Capital, and included support from Griffin Gaming Partners, Franklin Templeton, and Brevan Howard Digital among others.
The 'Shrapnel' game, built on the Avalanche blockchain, will enable players to create and own in-game assets including avatars, weapons and even maps. To play, gamers will not need a cryptocurrency wallet, however, they can connect an external one if they want to have self-custody of their assets.
Despite the falling investment into crypto companies, Neon Machine has been able to attract funding due to high production values and a promising track-record of pre-launch content and demos. Early access to the game is expected to launch in December, and a free version is planned to launch in 2024.
Shrapnel is developed by industry veterans, including a team of BAFTA and Emmy Award-winning game developing professionals who have previously worked on famous titles like Halo, Call of Duty, Star Wars, and Ghost of Tsushima. The core focus has been on graphics ahead of the game’s launch.
Neon Machine is also developing the 'Shrapnel Marketplace', whereby in-game items will be purchasable and tradable, providing a new player economy. Further enhancements for creating in-game items are also underway.