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4:28 PM · Jan 6, 2025 – ZKcandy, the gaming-focused Layer 2 blockchain built on ZKsync, has successfully closed a $4 million private seed funding round. This investment will fuel the development of ZKcandy's ambitious roadmap, which includes building a Telegram-based EVM gaming ecosystem, integrating AI tools, forging partnerships with major IP holders, and preparing for mainnet launch in the first half of 2025.
The funding round saw participation from a diverse group of prominent investors, including Wemix Pte. Ltd., Animoca Ventures, Spartan Group, Perlone Capital, Presto Labs, Flowdesk, Prometheuz, Lecca Ventures, and Efficient Frontier. Several angel investors and early contributors from established firms like Stacks, Analog, Mittaria, Xangle, and Trading Strategies also joined the round, demonstrating strong confidence in ZKcandy's vision.
ZKcandy aims to simplify blockchain adoption for both developers and players, creating a seamless and accessible Web3 gaming experience. The platform is uniquely positioned, benefiting from the technical prowess of ZKsync and the extensive gaming expertise of its parent company, iCandy Interactive. iCandy, Southeast Asia's largest game developer, boasts a portfolio of over 500 games and a massive user base of more than 300 million gamers worldwide. This experience provides ZKcandy with invaluable resources and a deep understanding of the gaming market.
"Securing this funding is a big step for us," said Lau Kin Wai, CEO of ZKcandy. "Our goal is to make Web3 gaming more open and accessible to everyone. We want to bring in top games and other large IPs and create a space where users can enjoy smooth, secure, and rewarding experiences. With the support of our investors, we will keep building toward that vision."
Key initiatives to be supported by the funding include:
- Telegram-Based EVM Gaming Ecosystem: ZKcandy is developing an Ethereum-compatible gaming network within Telegram, making blockchain gaming more accessible to a wider audience.
- AI Integration in Gaming: The platform will integrate AI tools to enhance gameplay, create personalized experiences, and boost user engagement.
- Partnerships with Major IP Holders: ZKcandy is actively pursuing collaborations with leading brands and IP holders to bring established franchises into the Web3 gaming space. This includes a game based on a Tier-1 Hollywood IP currently in development.
- Mainnet Launch: The funding will support the final stages of development and preparations for the mainnet launch scheduled for the first half of 2025.
ZKcandy has already achieved significant traction, with over 2.4 million wallets created during its open testnet phase within just two weeks. The platform currently has more than 25 game titles in development, showcasing its strong appeal to game developers and its potential to deliver a diverse range of gaming experiences.
About ZKcandy:
ZKcandy is an Ethereum-based gaming network developed and operated by iCandy Interactive, Southeast Asia's largest game developer. Leveraging zk-rollup technology powered by ZKsync, ZKcandy is designed specifically for gaming and meme entertainment within the ZKsync Elastic Network.
About iCandy Interactive:
iCandy Interactive is a publicly traded (ASX:ICI) game development company based in Southeast Asia, with a portfolio of over 500 games and more than 300 million gamers worldwide.
About ZKSync:
ZKsync is a Layer 2 scaling solution for Ethereum that utilizes zero-knowledge proofs to enable faster and cheaper transactions while maintaining security and decentralization.
Compiled by CMO Intern team
