ArenaX Labs, a technology company focused on using games to educate users about artificial intelligence (AI), has secured $6 million in funding. The round was led by Framework Ventures, a venture capital firm specializing in gaming and decentralized finance (DeFi) that also co-led ArenaX’s 2021 seed funding round. SevenX Ventures, FunPlus/Xterio, and Moore Strategic Ventures participated in the investment.
ArenaX Labs CEO Brandon Da Silva said:
“AI Arena represents a significant step forward in merging technology and education. It offers a novel way for individuals without specialized technical knowledge to learn about AI, all while having fun.”
AI Arena resembles a player-versus-player (PVP) fighting game similar to Super Smash Bros., but instead of directly controlling characters, players train AI agents to fight on their behalf. The effectiveness of the AI characters in combat hinges on the training provided by their human mentors.
Trained AI characters fight autonomously during actual battles, fostering a bond between players and their agents, leading to a deeper understanding of AI principles. No coding skills are required to play, and the game will be free-to-play with a Web3 version, offering players the chance to compete for rewards.
Reinforcing their commitment to the ArenaX team, Framework Ventures co-founder Michael Anderson stated that they believe the team possesses one of the most promising approaches to consumer AI. Anderson highlighted that, for most consumers, AI remains a novelty encountered superficially. The ArenaX team, according to Anderson, is challenging this perception by creating products that incentivize ordinary people to engage with AI training through the natural language of play.
