Hybrid-Casual Puzzle: Studio 42 Raises $3.6M
Cyprus-based mobile games startup Studio 42 has raised $3.6 million in Seed funding to accelerate the launch of its first title and explore new puzzle game IP.
The funding round was led by Play Ventures, with participation from GEM Capital and Arcadia Gaming Partners.
Founded with a mission to reinvent the puzzle genre, Studio 42 is developing hybrid-casual experiences that blend classic puzzle gameplay with engaging metagame elements. The studio is taking a speed-focused and data-driven approach — embracing rapid iteration, live testing, and AI-powered hypothesis validation.
“We believe genius lies in simplicity,” said Aleksandr Bogdanov, CEO of Studio 42. “This funding allows us to focus on crafting deeply engaging puzzle experiences that feel familiar, yet fresh. With the backing of some of the top investors in gaming, we’re excited to push the genre forward.”
Studio 42’s first prototype moved from concept to live testing in just two months. The company is now aiming to test up to 10 new game ideas per year, using internal tools and automation to evaluate concepts efficiently. The team currently includes 14 members spread across four countries, and the studio is actively hiring as it scales development and content production.
“We’re thrilled to back Aleksandr, Ivan, Pavel, and the incredible team at Studio 42,” said Henric Suuronen, Founding Partner at Play Ventures. “Their vision for hybrid-casual puzzle games and their execution speed are exactly what this market demands. We believe they are uniquely positioned to deliver breakout hits.”
The puzzle category continues to be one of the most competitive — yet lucrative — segments in mobile gaming. Titles like Candy Crush Saga and Royal Match dominate charts, but emerging studios are increasingly finding success through hybrid-casual innovation and sharp execution on monetization and live ops.
With mobile games accounting for over 50% of global gaming revenue (Newzoo), Studio 42 aims to carve out a distinctive space through original IP, fast prototyping, and a creative-yet-pragmatic studio culture.
