Build A Rocket Boy Joins Forces With PlayFusion In Exciting Acquisition

Deal News | Dec 10, 2024 | Redbird Capital

Build A Rocket Boy Joins Forces With PlayFusion In Exciting Acquisition

International game developer and publisher Build A Rocket Boy, led by renowned game director Leslie Benzies, has announced the acquisition of UK-based game developer and publisher, PlayFusion. Leslie Benzies will share the CEO role with PlayFusion's Mark Gerhard, as the two companies merge their operations to strengthen Build A Rocket Boy's development of triple-A games like MindsEye, the immersive platform EVERYWHERE, and the ARCADIA UGC tools. Benzies, a figurehead in video game innovation, emphasizes that the combined entity will push boundaries in creativity and expand into different entertainment sectors. RedBird Capital Partners, alongside other investors, recently led a $110 million Series D fundraising round for Build A Rocket Boy, demonstrating significant financial backing for their ambitious gameplay and entertainment vision. The merger repositions Build A Rocket Boy as a formidable force in the gaming sector with aspirations to democratize game development.

Sectors

  • Video Game Development
  • Private Equity
  • Entertainment

Geography

  • United Kingdom – Both Build A Rocket Boy and PlayFusion are based in the UK, marking it as a primary geographical focus for the companies.
  • United States – RedBird Capital Partners, a significant financial backer for Build A Rocket Boy, is based in the US.

Industry

  • Video Game Development – Both Build A Rocket Boy and PlayFusion are involved in creating and publishing video games and entertainment platforms, making this industry classification relevant to their core operations.
  • Private Equity – RedBird Capital Partners, a private equity firm, has funded Build A Rocket Boy, emphasizing the role of private equity in this acquisition.
  • Entertainment – Build A Rocket Boy's endeavors in creating immersive gaming experiences position them within the broader entertainment industry.

Financials

  • $110 million – Amount raised in Build A Rocket Boy's Series D fundraising round led by RedBird Capital Partners and other investors.

Participants

NameRoleTypeDescription
Build A Rocket BoyAcquiring CompanyCompanyAn independent video game developer and entertainment company led by Leslie Benzies.
PlayFusionTarget CompanyCompanyAn independent UK-based game developer and publisher known for their innovative approach to game development.
Leslie BenziesCEO & FounderPersonFounder of Build A Rocket Boy and a renowned figure in video game development.
Mark GerhardCo-CEOPersonCEO & CTO of PlayFusion, joined Build A Rocket Boy as Co-CEO, bringing extensive experience from his previous role at Jagex.
RedBird Capital PartnersInvestorCompanyPrivate equity firm that led a significant funding round for Build A Rocket Boy.