NextBeat Launches as Music-Gaming Powerhouse with Supercell Backing, Eyes Expansion

January 14, 2025
NextBeat Launches as Music-Gaming Powerhouse with Supercell Backing, Eyes Expansion
  • Founders Olly Barnes and Simon Hade have launched a new company named NextBeat, which will serve as the new home for the popular mobile games Beatstar and Countrystar.

  • NextBeat is part of Space Ape Games' expansion efforts, with the studio aiming to enhance its operations in the gaming sector.

  • Hade expressed enthusiasm about transitioning to a dedicated music-focused venture, viewing it as a promising opportunity for growth.

  • In November 2024, Supercell, which already owned a majority stake in Space Ape, completed its acquisition of the London-based studio, further solidifying its presence in the UK gaming market.

  • This acquisition marks Supercell's first office in the UK, with CEO Ilkka Paananen highlighting the excitement of integrating into London's vibrant gaming ecosystem.

  • As part of its investment strategy, Supercell will act as an active minority shareholder in NextBeat, providing support for its growth and development.

  • Hade announced the new project on LinkedIn, revealing that it has been developed in collaboration with Supercell.

  • Barnes emphasized the significant monetization potential for music in gaming, suggesting it could surpass revenues from streaming service subscriptions.

  • NextBeat plans to explore expansions beyond gaming, including ventures into educational technology and mental health sectors.

  • Beatstar, launched by Space Ape in 2021, has been a significant success, nearing 100 million downloads and generating approximately $200 million in revenue.

  • The portfolio of NextBeat is expected to include the intellectual properties of Beatstar and Countrystar, with plans for genre-specific versions and new game launches.

  • Simon Hade has been appointed as CEO of NextBeat, joined by key hires including George Yao, Imogen Turner, and Daisy Fletcher.

Summary based on 2 sources


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Sources

Space Ape spins out new studio NextBeat

GamesIndustry.biz • Jan 13, 2025

Space Ape spins out new studio NextBeat

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