In a significant move that underscores its ambition in the burgeoning user-generated content (UGC) video game sector, the French startup RIVRS has announced the completion of its first funding round, raising €4 million. Based in Rennes and founded in 2021 by Romain Hubert and Loïc Deffains, RIVRS is poised to expand its operations and enhance its capabilities in game development across popular platforms such as Roblox, Fortnite, and Minecraft.

Funding to Propel Growth and International Expansion

The financing round, exclusively led by Pléiade Venture, marks a pivotal moment in RIVRS’s journey, enabling the startup to multiply its game development efforts and initiate plans for international outreach. RIVRS has already established a strong market presence, doubling its sales in 2023 and aiming to compete against prominent Anglo-Saxon companies like Voldex and Gamefam. The UGC gaming market is currently thriving, with projections indicating over $2.7 billion generated by UGC creators across the leading platforms in 2024, reflecting the growing demand for innovative, player-driven content.

Innovative Approach to Game Development

RIVRS has positioned itself uniquely within the UGC landscape by combining a professional approach to game design and production with rapid development timelines. The startup prides itself on a streamlined production process, averaging just two months per game, which allows for agile responses to market demands and player preferences. RIVRS has successfully launched ten games, some of which have generated impressive revenues—nearly €500,000 for a single title—bringing together a substantial player base and fostering community engagement through in-game purchases and subscription models.

Leadership and Team Dynamics

The vision of RIVRS is driven by the complementary skills of its co-founders. Romain Hubert, a young gaming expert at just 23 years old, and Loïc Deffains, a seasoned entrepreneur with a wealth of experience from founding the startup studio Unitee, form a formidable leadership duo. Their combined expertise is further bolstered by a diverse team of professionals from the video game and technology sectors, who collectively contribute to RIVRS’s innovative game offerings.

The startup's growth has attracted notable investments from prominent gaming influencers, including FuzeIII and LeBouseuh, who have millions of followers on their platforms. Their involvement not only provides financial support but also enhances RIVRS’s visibility and reach within the gaming community.

Pléiade Venture's Confidence in RIVRS

Constance Rietzler, Associate Director at Pléiade Venture, expressed confidence in RIVRS’s potential, stating, “RIVRS perfectly matches Pléiade Venture’s investment criteria: innovation, growth, and operational excellence. With strong self-financed growth and a rapid return on investment for each game, we are convinced that Loïc and Romain will build a world leader in the fast-growing UGC game market.”

Pléiade Venture focuses on long-term investments in innovative companies across various sectors, underscoring its commitment to fostering growth in the tech landscape. With over €130 million in assets and a strategic approach to investment, the firm is well-positioned to support RIVRS in achieving its ambitious goals.

The Future of UGC Gaming

As UGC continues to reshape the video game industry by facilitating diverse content creation at reduced costs, RIVRS stands at the forefront of this transformation. The startup's business model not only encourages player engagement but also builds loyalty within the gaming community, ensuring its relevance in a competitive market.

By leveraging its funding to enhance production capabilities and expand internationally, RIVRS aims to capture a significant share of the global UGC video game market in the coming years. With a focus on quality and rapid development, RIVRS is well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of gamers and continue its ascent in the industry.

The €4 million funding round represents a significant milestone for RIVRS as it embarks on a journey to redefine UGC gaming. With a strong foundation built on innovation and strategic partnerships, the startup is positioned to lead the charge in creating captivating gaming experiences that resonate with players worldwide. As the UGC gaming market expands, RIVRS’s commitment to excellence will likely propel it to the forefront of this dynamic and rapidly evolving sector.