Empty Vessel has closed its initial Series A funding. While it has not disclosed its seed round funds, the studio stated it puts the total raised at $11 million.
The round was led by NCSoft and 1AM Gaming, alongside Black Phoenix Games, Anurup Joseph, and Sebastiaan Hejne, as well as initial investors Sisu Game Ventures, Raptor Group, and Compute.
The funds will be used to fund the ongoing development of the studio’s inaugural title, Defect, including expanding its headcount, with the additional funds supporting console development and single-player support.
“It’s gratifying to see our developer-first approach resonating with fans and our new long term partners at NCSoft alongside our other investors,” said Emanuel Palalic, CEO and game director.
“We remain committed to our vision of creating a new genre in the FPS market with Defect, and while we are building in a sustainable manner, this new investment will allow us to accelerate our plans for proper single-player support and to expand onto more platforms.”
CEO, NC America, COO, NC West Jeonghee “JJ” Jin, added: “Empty Vessel’s distinct vision for game design, production, and player interaction made us quick believers in their upcoming shooter, Defect. We’re committed to the evolution and future of this incredible game.”
NCsoft has made a “strategic equity investment” in Texas-based studio Empty Vessel in May.