In a noteworthy development, Vermilion Studios has successfully concluded a multi-million dollar funding round, dedicated to advancing the development of the eagerly awaited web3 social party game, Forgotten Playland. The $7 million funding round saw participation from notable investors including Merit Circle, Paper Ventures, Spartan Group, and C2 Ventures.

Marco van den Heuvel, Chief Gaming Officer at Merit Circle, expressed enthusiasm about the project's potential beyond gaming, stating: 

“Forgotten Playland is a project close to our hearts. Co-developing our own game is a dream come true, and we’re thrilled to make it the flagship game of the Merit Circle DAO. Our vision extends beyond the game, as we believe there are numerous opportunities with the IP of Forgotten Playland. We invite you to explore the attic, the homeland of our forgotten toys, and enjoy the upcoming minigames."

The Web3 Game and IP

Forgotten Playland, conceived as a virtual haven for abandoned toys, gained attention after its playable debut at the Merit Circle DAO's community event in Amsterdam on May 19th, 2023. Anticipated for release in the first quarter of 2024, Forgotten Playland already features two minigames, including Bump-A-Ball and Jungle Rumble, with more games in active development.

Bump-A-Ball: Described as an exhilarating game involving 2 to 4 players battling on a wooden table platform. As saw blades gradually reduce the platform size, players must skillfully balance offensive and defensive tactics to be the last ones standing amidst intense competition.

Jungle Rumble: Players navigate a vibrant jungle-themed area, dodging obstacles and each other to be the last Plushie standing. The chaotic mix of smashing hammers, blowing fans, and fire-spitting dinosaurs creates an unpredictable adventure that intensifies with every passing second.

Paper Ventures, led by Danish Chaudhry, Oliver Blakey, and Ivailo Jordanov, only just last week introduced their $25 million fund dedicated to supporting early-stage projects in blockchain and web3 gaming. Danish emphasized in a press announcement: “We are excited to support Forgotten Playland as a co-development project with our partner, Merit Circle DAO. It’s an innovative use of the minigame format that promises to redefine player engagement, especially with subsequent titles in the pipeline."

As the gaming community eagerly awaits the release of Forgotten Playland, the collaboration between Vermilion Studios, Duckland Games, and Merit Circle DAO signifies a commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering fresh, engaging gaming experiences.