Arbitrum is stepping deeper into blockchain gaming with its first major funding round through Arbitrum Gaming Ventures. The $10 million investment targets a range of Web3 gaming startups, aiming to build out the ecosystem and give developers the tools to push gaming into the on-chain space.

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Good to know

• Arbitrum Gaming Ventures has invested $10 million across five Web3 gaming projects.
• Backers include Paradigm, BITKRAFT, and Framework Ventures.
• Projects range from social combat games and Layer 3 chains to Telegram-based gaming rollups.

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Arbitrum Gaming Ventures, a division under the Arbitrum DAO, has distributed the funding to five startups: Wildcard, Hyve Labs, T-Rex, Xai, and Proof of Play. Each project brings something different to the table, from real-time multiplayer gameplay to experimental blockchain infrastructure.

Wildcard, created by Paul Bettner and Katy Drake Bettner, blends strategic card mechanics with 2v2 third-person combat. The game features social viewing tools that let fans interact with matches as they happen. Wildcard is already listed on Steam and currently accepting players for alpha testing.

Hyve Labs is developing a Web3 rollup that will make blockchain games available across social platforms like Telegram, Farcaster, and X. The goal is to eliminate friction in onboarding and bring gaming to users where they already are. Hyve previously raised $2.75 million in a funding round led by Framework Ventures.

T-Rex takes a different approach, focusing on everyday internet use cases for blockchain. Based in Southeast Asia, the project supports Arbitrum’s push into international growth markets by offering user-friendly blockchain features to general consumers.

Xai is building a Layer 3 chain optimized for indie game developers. It runs on Arbitrum Orbit and offers a system called “Proof-of-Skill” to help games tap into blockchain while keeping the ease of platforms like Steam. Xai’s aim is to support thousands of games in reaching Web3 audiences without added technical complexity.

Proof of Play, led by FarmVille co-creator Amitt Mahajan, is working on Pirate Nation, a role-playing game that mixes blockchain elements with traditional gaming design. With backing from a16z, the studio is expected to play a key role in Arbitrum’s long-term gaming strategy.