Ash Games, a Saudi Arabia-based game development studio, has successfully secured $1.5 million in a Seed funding round co-led by Merak Capital and Impact46 through the Merak Gaming Fund. This investment aims to bolster the studio's efforts in developing and launching video games that are deeply rooted in Saudi culture and heritage, as the Kingdom positions itself as a burgeoning hub for the gaming industry. Founded in 2022 by Anas Bakhsh, Yaser Alahmadi, and Saud Bakolka, Ash Games is focused on creating action-adventure titles for PC and consoles that resonate with both local and international audiences.
The studio's flagship project, Nomad, is an action-adventure roguelite game drawing inspiration from Ancient Arabian mythology, with a planned release on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox in 2027. Alongside this, Ash Games has introduced Azooma Escape, a stealth-comedy game that reflects everyday Saudi life, showcasing the studio's commitment to producing culturally authentic entertainment. The funding will facilitate the expansion of Ash Games' development capabilities, allowing the studio to grow its remote-first team and enhance its international publishing strategies.
As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in its gaming ecosystem, this funding round underscores the increasing appetite for locally developed intellectual property that possesses global appeal. The capital will enable Ash Games to scale its production pipeline, positioning it to compete on an international level while contributing to the Kingdom's broader ambition of establishing itself as a leader in the regional gaming market. By focusing on culturally inspired narratives, Ash Games aims to carve out a unique niche in an increasingly crowded industry, potentially attracting a diverse player base worldwide.
The studio's flagship project, Nomad, is an action-adventure roguelite game drawing inspiration from Ancient Arabian mythology, with a planned release on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox in 2027. Alongside this, Ash Games has introduced Azooma Escape, a stealth-comedy game that reflects everyday Saudi life, showcasing the studio's commitment to producing culturally authentic entertainment. The funding will facilitate the expansion of Ash Games' development capabilities, allowing the studio to grow its remote-first team and enhance its international publishing strategies.
As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in its gaming ecosystem, this funding round underscores the increasing appetite for locally developed intellectual property that possesses global appeal. The capital will enable Ash Games to scale its production pipeline, positioning it to compete on an international level while contributing to the Kingdom's broader ambition of establishing itself as a leader in the regional gaming market. By focusing on culturally inspired narratives, Ash Games aims to carve out a unique niche in an increasingly crowded industry, potentially attracting a diverse player base worldwide.
Source: Wamda
