Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Belfast | May 13, 2025 – Classy Games Studios, a game development company based in Northern Ireland and the UAE, has officially announced a strategic investment from Merak Capital and Exel by Merak, further strengthening its position in the growing Saudi Arabian gaming ecosystem.
Founded in 2020 by Jamie McClenaghan, Classy Games Studios aims to connect the European and Middle Eastern gaming markets through a blend of creativity, storytelling, and cultural diversity. This new investment will be used to accelerate the development of its upcoming title, “Silly Suspects”, a first-person detective RPG with a comedic twist, which is preparing for an Early Access launch on Steam.
Jamie McClenaghan, Founder & CEO of Classy Games Studios, commented:
“We’re stepping up to help pioneer the next generation of gaming in Saudi Arabia, and play our part in putting KSA on the global gaming map. The adventure continues, and it just got a whole lot classier.”
The announcement comes at a pivotal time for Saudi Arabia’s gaming sector, which has witnessed surging growth and strong government backing. In late 2024, Merak Capital launched Exel by Merak, an $81 million fund and accelerator dedicated to empowering gaming startups and building a thriving ecosystem in the Kingdom.
Additionally, in February 2025, Merak Capital entered into a strategic partnership with Savvy Games Group, aiming to expand investment opportunities and catalyze game development talent across the region.
This investment highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to positioning itself as a global hub for the gaming industry, in line with Vision 2030. It also aligns with Classy Games Studios’ vision to create globally appealing, imaginative games that resonate with diverse audiences.
Classy Games Studios made its debut with “Orbital”, a fast-paced Android game available on the Google Play Store that challenges players’ timing and decision-making skills. With “Silly Suspects” set to launch, the studio is entering a new phase of creative growth backed by strategic regional partners.
