Ares Interactive Secures $70 Million to Develop New Gaming Franchises

Ares Interactive: A New Era in Gaming

Ares Interactive, a notable name in the realm of video games, has recently captured attention with its announcement of raising a staggering $70 million in a Series A funding round. This investment, spearheaded by General Catalyst, with contributions from industry veteran Niccolo de Masi, marks one of the most significant financial boosts for an early stage game company in recent years. The infusion of capital is set to continuously foster Ares Interactive’s vision of crafting next-generation, cross-platform free-to-play games that resonate with players worldwide.

Based in two major gaming hubs, San Francisco and Berlin, Ares Interactive is backed by its studios, 7th Inning and Swift Games. The teams within these studios benefit from a unique combination of traditional game-making experience and innovative AI-enhanced processes for development, marketing, and live operations. This formidable approach empowers them to iterate swiftly, expand their content offerings efficiently, and adapt responsively to player feedback.

Mike DeLaet, President of Ares Interactive, expressed enthusiasm about this funding, stating, "This round validates our vision, our approach, and the team behind it." The executive team, enriched with extensive backgrounds in game development, offers Ares the capability to build long-lasting and successful franchises. As the gaming industry undergoes rapid evolution, Ares prides itself on its strategic direction which places players at the heart of every design decision. This forward-thinking philosophy ensures that they remain authentically connected to their audience, nurturing communities around their titles for years to come.

Their flagship game, "Heroes vs Hordes", serves as a testament to their commitment to quality and player engagement. The survival roguelike RPG has amassed over 13 million installations, showcasing strong player ratings and reviews. This highlights Ares Interactive’s dedication to creating not just games, but experiences that are polished and enjoyable, embodying a 'fun-first' design ethos.

In the next phase of their expansion, Ares Interactive is set to unveil another title entitled "Baseball Hits 26". Tailored specifically for baseball aficionados, this game promises to include officially licensed professional baseball players, further catering to the niche interests of fans. The company also has plans to announce additional projects throughout 2026, broadening its portfolio and showcasing its robust capacity for content creation.

Erin Schaefer, COO at General Catalyst, emphasized the uniqueness of Ares Interactive by stating, "We believe Ares Interactive is uniquely positioned to build enduring hit gaming franchises by leveraging the power of AI workflows." The support from General Catalyst underscores the confidence in Ares' operational and creative capabilities, reflecting a profound alignment with a long-term vision in game development.

Founded in 2024, Ares Interactive is not just another game developer; it marks the beginning of a new era in gaming. With an acclaimed leadership team, paired with their firm belief in player-centric design, they are on a trajectory to capture a considerable share of the gaming market whilst ensuring sustained growth for years to come. As the gaming landscape continues to transform with advancements in technology and shifting player expectations, Ares Interactive is poised to deliver compelling experiences that keep players returning for more.

For more insights, check out Ares Interactive's official website and LinkedIn for updates on their latest releases and company news.