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Mobile RPG startup Azra Games has secured $42.7 million in its Series A funding round as it aims to accelerate development of its debut game known as Project Legends.
Modern mobile RPGs typically make a large share of their earnings from audiences in Asia, with colourful anime aesthetics seen across hits like Genshin Impact, Goddess of Victory: Nikke and Wuthering Waves.
Azra Games is taking Project Legends in a different direction, targetting a Western audience with a gritty, mature approach harkening back to 70s fantasy.
This niche – tapping into the style and nostalgia of Conan the Barbarian, Frank Frazetta and Boris Vallejo – has helped the studio secure its mighty $42 million investment, led by Pantera Capital with further participation from a16z Games, a16z Crypto and NFX.
Funding the next generation?
Azra Games was founded by CEO and veteran games designer Mart Otero, formerly general manager of EA’s Capital Games through the launch of Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes – EA’s biggest mobile game for six consecutive years.
Otero also co-founded games studio KlickNation and hedge fund Alice Capital.
His mission with Azra Games is to spearhead “the next generation” of RPGs on mobile, aiming for console quality and immersive storylines. The Series A will be “instrumental” towards that end. Funding will also enable a global expansion of Azra Games, bolster its R&D team Azra Labs and support various undisclosed projects already in development.
“We aim to define what I call the fourth generation of mobile RPGs,” said Otero.
“The first generation emerged with mobile app stores, characterised by text-based RPGs with 2D graphics constrained by limited memory and weak processors. The second generation saw enhancements in UI, richer icons, and auto battles with basic animations.
“The third capitalised on advanced smartphone technology, offering 3D graphics, interactive turn-based battles, and more sophisticated controls.
“I believe the fourth generation of mobile RPGs is competing with PC and console RPGs, featuring open worlds, over-the-shoulder camera perspectives, real-time battles and extended PvE campaigns. It signifies a significant paradigm shift in mobile gaming.”
Immersive experiences
Between its seed rounds and the new Series A, Azra Games has now raised $68.3 million to date. The studio is looking to hire “world-class talent” with its funds, but is also looking to AI to support development.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Azra Games to build a new generation of RPGs, built on deep storytelling, mobile-native combat, and immersive economies,” said Pantera Capital general partner Franklin Bi.
“Mark is the rare entrepreneur who has successfully navigated multiple industry shifts and built billion-dollar franchises in gaming.”
We spoke Otero about the raise and Project Legends’ Western approach to RPG development, art direction and more. You can read the full interview right here.
