Pitched as an indicator of its future success, social gaming specialist Recharge Studios - part of the W3i distribution and monetisation network - has revealed it has invested in a total of 12 iOS titles.

The firm, which was set up by W3i at the end of 2010, looks to give developers a foothold in the iPhone social market.

Its first three months has resulted in two of the titles it's backed – Dolphin Play and Daybreak Heroes – ranking within the top 25 titles overall on the US App Store. Dolphin Play, which was Recharge's very first release, has been downloaded more than 1 million times.

Swimming success

It's a level of success the firm will be looking to repeat with future releases, having signed a partnership with SkyVu Pictures during GDC 2011 for its forthcoming Battle Bears Royale title.

"Recharge Studios' mobile gaming knowledge coupled with W3i's distribution and moneisation expertise provides the one-two punch SkyVu Pictures needs to accelerate growth of the Battle Bears brand," said SkyVu president and founder Benjamin Vu.

"We're excited to grow with a market leader."

On with the investment

As well as SkyVu, NBA Jam and Trade Nations developer Bight Games has also joined Recharge's roster, as has iLookApps creator Riptide Games.

It's a line up Recharge Studios claims is indicative of the interest in social gaming and its investment model.

"As the first app distributor to help fund and accelerate mobile social games development, we're proud to have already helped several titles get off the ground," said W3i and Recharge Studios CEO Andy Johnson.

"Our global network of partners continues to expand; and we're glad to be in a position to continue offering investment opportunities. With 36 consecutive quarters of profitability, W3i continues to reinvest in its network and partners worldwide."

Developers interested in Recharge Studios' investment funds should visit the firm's website.