Superplastic, a Web3 character studio and creator of Guggimon, raised $20 million in a Series A-4 funding round led by Amazon’s Alexa Fund.
The $20 million Series A-4 funding round for Superplastic is big news in the Web3 industry. Given recent market fluctuations in the tech sector, this announcement from one of the world’s largest companies signifies a broader message. Essentially, it enhances the longevity and viability of the Web3 and 3D animation asset class for the broader business community.
Superplastic is a Web3 and a 3D character studio that creates synthetic celebrities and vinyl toys. Among Superplastic’s notable collaborations are with big brands like Gucci and Epic Games‘ “Fortnite,” as well as NFT collections on Ethereum.
The funding round saw participation from other companies such as Google Ventures, Galaxy Digital, Sony Japan, Animoca Brands, and Craft Ventures. The combined investments bring Superplastic’s total funding raised to $58 million to date.
Guggimon, Superplastic’s Virtual Influencer
Superplastic’s virtual influencer, Guggimon, is a globally recognized mascot for the brand. Guggimon, a streetwear-style character, is not just for kids.
He enjoys horror movies, tattoos, and axes. Furthermore, Guggimon is part of a roster of animated celebrities managed by Superplastic. These animated celebrities include other virtual characters like Janky, Dayzee, and Staxx.
Despite being an animated character, Guggimon has millions of followers on social media. This broad reach is a testament to Superplastic’s unique brand appeal.
Epic Games’ Metaverse and Superplastic’s Virtual Characters
It comes as no surprise that Epic Games, with its $1 billion funding to develop the Metaverse, chose to feature a virtual influencer like Guggimon last year.
Epic Games’ MetaHuman Creator tool allows for designing virtual humans with incredible realism and ease.
Previously, Epic acquired the artist social portfolio network ArtStation, which gave them influence and creative direction over the primary community responsible for designing the ever-evolving Metaverse.
Superplastic’s virtual characters, such as Guggimon, are a part of this Metaverse, making them relevant to younger generations who are familiar with this digital world.
Amazon’s Investment in Superplastic and Guggimon
Amazon Studios has gained a “first-look deal” with Superplastic as part of the latest funding round. Amazon Studios’ investment in Superplastic gives them first dibs on any television series or film pitches that feature Superplastic’s characters.
Specifically, “The Janky & Guggimon Show” is now in development at Amazon Studios. Interestingly, Amazon Studios has already produced other edgy, quirky comedies like “The Boys” and “Fleabag.”
The new show will follow Janky, a lovable idiot who scams celebrities, and Guggimon, a fashion icon and master manipulator who is too narcissistic to care.
Amazon’s Stance on Web3 with Guggimon Investment
As Amazon continues to expand its reach, they are interested in Web3 technology, synthetics, virtualization, and generative AI.
Paul Bernard, director of Amazon’s Alexa Fund, stated that the fund is looking towards the future with long-term investments that will position them well. This is even if it takes some time for these technologies to fully come to fruition in our day-to-day lives.
Superplastic’s characters, including Guggimon, are a part of this future vision.
The Future of Gaming and Entertainment
Superplastic’s investment in virtual influencers, NFT collections, and vinyl toys, combined with Amazon’s investment in Web3 technology and long-term vision, make them both important players in the future of entertainment.
Guggimon’s popularity and Superplastic’s innovative approach to managing synthetic celebrities make them a formidable force in the industry. As virtual reality and the Metaverse continue to grow in popularity, Superplastic’s animated characters like Guggimon and Janky will likely become even more popular.
Undoubtedly, this will give Amazon a strategic advantage in the entertainment industry.
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