Rovio raises $42 million in first funding round
Having recently claimed that Angry Birds revenues now top 50 million, Rovio has raised a further $42 million in its first post-Angry Birds funding round, the Finnish developer has revealed.
The round, which was led by both Facebook and Admob investor Accel Partners, and Atomico Ventures - Skype founder Niklas Zennstroem's venture capital firm - also featured angel investor Felicis Ventures.
Spreading its wings
The money will reportedly be used to expand Rovio's presence across both mobile, console and social media, with the developer looking to replicate the multiplatform success it's enjoyed with Angry Birds in future releases.
"With Angry Birds, we have successfully launched not only a strong new brand, but also a whole new entertainment franchise," said Rovio CEO and co-founder Mikael Hed.
"Angry Birds will continue to grow, and we aim to create more similar success stories. We will strengthen the position of Rovio and continue building our franchises in gaming, merchandising and broadcast media.
Fast flyer
As a result of his firm's injection, Zennstroem has also joined Rovio's board.
Speaking about his appointment, Zennstroem said Angry Birds which Rovio claims now boasts 40 million monthly active users still has room to grow.
"This investment will give Rovio wings," he said.
"The company has an outstanding management team and is a category winner with huge potential, making it precisely the kind of company we like to back. Angry Birds is one of the fastest-growing online products Ive seen, growing even faster than Skype, and the company has done a brilliant job of extending it across different platforms and merchandise.
"I'm really looking forward to joining the board, and helping the team to fulfill its ambitions."