MyGamez, a Finnish/Chinese mobile game publisher, has successfully raised €1.5 million ($1.6 million) in funding, with support from prominent industry figures. Notable backers include Supercell co-founder Mikko Kodisoja, Small Giant Games co-founder Timo Soininen, Reworks co-founder Ilkka Teppo, and former Riot China head of operations Daniel Wang. Originally founded with the goal of opening the Chinese games market to Western developers, MyGamez has since shifted its focus to providing co-publishing services, navigating the challenges posed by regulatory changes in China's gaming landscape.

This funding marks a significant milestone for MyGamez, symbolizing a new chapter in its evolution. Bridging two major mobile gaming regions, MyGamez specializes in the Chinese games market, navigating complexities and regulatory shifts. This strategic pivot has positioned MyGamez as a representative for notable names in the mobile gaming industry, boasting a clientele that includes Playrix, Small Giant Games, Gram Games, Fingersoft, and Nexters.

Timo Soininen, co-founder of Small Giant Games, has not only invested in MyGamez but has also joined its board. His involvement traces back to spearheading the collaboration between Small Giant Games and MyGamez before his departure following Zynga's acquisition. Soininen commended MyGamez for developing a new, transparent, and hassle-free approach for global publishers to access the expansive Chinese gaming market.

MyGamez co-founder and CEO Mikael Leinonen expressed excitement about having industry luminaries supporting the company's journey. He acknowledged the respect for each supporter's achievements in the gaming sector and sees their backing as instrumental in propelling MyGamez to new heights. Despite facing challenges in recent years, the regulatory environment in the Chinese gaming industry has stabilized, and MyGamez anticipates positive growth with upcoming launches of major titles, such as Empires & Puzzles.

In a related development, it emerged that Supercell, a significant player in the gaming industry, once explored the possibility of forming a new app store. This collaboration, initially conceived with Activision Blizzard and Riot Games, was intended for Android, showcasing the dynamic landscape and strategic considerations within the gaming ecosystem.

Source: adapted from an article by Aaron Astle, News Editor for PocketGamer.biz.