Yahaha Studios

Yahaha Studios, based in Finland and China, offers a metaverse platform for users to socialize, consume interactive content, and engage in entertainment activities in user-generated virtual spaces. It also offers no-code tools for users to create 3D games, assets, and scenes, alongside support for avatar rigging, all of which integrate with the Unity game engine. As of January 2024, the company had over a million assets on its platform.

In November 2023, the company launched its GenAI-based chatbot, Theo, which enabled players to 1) generate 3D game scenes without the need for manual design, 2) craft storylines, dialogue, and interactive characters, 3) answer questions on tutorials and game creation, 4) search for specific assets in its library, and 5) to provide coding assistance if needed. Further, the company also added AI-based non-playable characters (NPCs) in September 2023, allowing enhanced player interactions. Other updates included the launch of Creator Portal (May 2023), a feature that allows creators to view their published space data, manage published items, and view resources like news, tutorial videos, and developer documents in a centralized place.

The company generates revenue via sales of virtual currency and taking a percentage of spending on experiences created by creators. 

Key customers and partnerships

As of November 2022, the company had over 100,000 developers and 200,000 registered users for its platform.

In September 2022, Yahaha Studios partnered with 3D model marketplace CGTrader. The collaboration added over 200,000 3D models that can be used to create content on Yahaha Studios’ platform. The two companies have jointly launched a challenge that provides creators of virtual spaces on the platform to win up to USD 5,000.

Funding and financials

In November 2022, the company raised USD 40 million in an extended Series A funding round co-led by Alibaba and 37 Interactive Entertainment. Funds were earmarked to bring in monetization features, product development, and headcount expansion. The funding round placed its valuation in the range of USD 300 million–500 million.