Bazooka Tango, a game studio founded by former developers of the fantasy MOBA game Vainglory, has successfully raised $5 million in a recent funding round led by Bitkraft Ventures. RW3 Ventures, Sfermion, and 1Up Ventures also joined in the funding round. The raised capital is earmarked for team expansion and the continued development of their upcoming game, Shardbound, which is set to debut on the upcoming Immutable zkEVM network.
Despite the challenges in VC funding this year, Bazooka Tango’s successful funding round underscores the perceived quality of their games. CEO Bo Daly expressed gratitude, stating, “We are focused on expanding our team in critical disciplines essential for launching and growing the Shardbound universe.”
Shardbound is an innovative combination of an NFT trading card game and a turn-based player-versus-player RPG. Players strategically place characters on a tiled board, creating a unique gaming experience. When Bazooka Tango acquired Shardbound from its original developers at Spiritwalk Games, the game was incomplete, reaching only the “early access” stage with unfinished art assets.
Under Bazooka Tango’s leadership, Shardbound’s revival was announced earlier this year. The recent funding infusion positions Shardbound to reach its completion, addressing issues like placeholder art. The game, now backed by millions in funding, aims to leverage NFT technology to enhance its gameplay.
Bazooka Tango has already made strategic hires, bringing in executives from major gaming companies such as Apple, Disney, and Electronic Arts. The development team has also been strengthened with professionals from renowned studios like 2K, Sledgehammer Games, and Pocket Gems. This injection of funds and talent signifies a significant step towards realizing Shardbound’s potential as an engaging and unique NFT-powered gaming experience.
