Grand Games secures $30M to fuel global expansion and team growth

Mobile game developer Grand Games has successfully closed a $30 million Series A funding round. The round was led by Balderton Capital, with additional support from existing investors Bek Ventures, Laton Ventures, and angel investor Mert Gür. This significant investment positions the studio to further its expansion into international markets and prepare for the highly anticipated launch of a new casual game in 2025.

Founded in January 2024 by gaming veterans Bekir Batuhan, Mustafa Fırtına, and Mehmet Çalım, Grand Games has quickly made a name for itself with two genre-defining casual game hits. The studio, currently operating with a team of 14, plans to grow its workforce to over 40 by the end of 2025, signaling its ambitious plans to scale operations and maintain its creative momentum.

“Istanbul has become a hub for exceptional gaming talent, and Grand Games is a standout in this thriving ecosystem,” said Suranga Chandratillake, General Partner at Balderton Capital. “The founders have not only demonstrated a sharp vision for creating world-class casual games but have also cultivated a remarkable team culture. Their ability to achieve rapid success with their first two titles is a testament to their drive and talent.”

This latest funding follows a $3 million pre-seed round raised just six months ago in July 2024. The rapid inflow of capital highlights the confidence investors have in the studio’s vision and execution. With its sights set on disrupting the global casual gaming market, Grand Games is doubling down on innovation, team expansion, and player engagement strategies.

The $30 million boost will be channeled into both operational growth and the development of the studio’s upcoming title. While details of the new game remain under wraps, industry insiders speculate that Grand Games will aim to replicate the success of its earlier releases while pushing the boundaries of what casual games can offer.

As Grand Games scales, the founders are committed to fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration. “Our goal has always been to create games that resonate with players worldwide,” said co-founder Bekir Batuhan. “This investment enables us to bring that vision to life on a much larger scale, and we’re thrilled to take this next step in our journey.”

With Istanbul continuing to emerge as a global gaming powerhouse, Grand Games is poised to solidify its status as a leader in the casual gaming space. The studio’s rapid rise and ambitious plans for 2025 set the stage for a transformative year, both for the company and the Turkish gaming industry at large.