Mumbai, India, September 8, 2025 – Ziffi Chess, a trailblazing mobile gaming platform revolutionizing the traditional game of chess, has secured over $5 million in a seed funding round led by Tanglin Venture Partners. The round also saw participation from prominent investors such as IndiaQuotient, DeVC, OnGrid, and Mechartes, signaling strong confidence in Ziffi Chess’s innovative approach to skill-based gaming. This capital infusion positions the startup to dominate India’s burgeoning online gaming market and expand its footprint globally.
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Founded in 2023 by IIT Bombay alumni Akshat Bansal and Aditya Dubey, Ziffi Chess has disrupted the chess landscape with its fast-paced, 6-move format, often likened to the “T20 of chess.” This format allows players to complete matches in under two minutes, catering to both casual players and chess enthusiasts seeking quick, engaging gameplay. Since its launch, the platform has garnered over 500,000 registered users and hosts more than 50,000 games daily. Its real-money gaming mode, certified by the All India Gaming Federation (AIGF), integrates secure payment systems like PhonePe for seamless transactions, ensuring trust and accessibility.
The $5 million (approximately ₹42 crore) funding will accelerate Ziffi Chess’s growth, with plans to enhance its technology stack, bolster marketing efforts, and drive user acquisition. The company aims to surpass 1 million users by the end of 2025, capitalizing on the rising popularity of chess in India, fueled by the global success of Indian grandmasters like Gukesh Dommaraju and Koneru Humpy. “This funding is a testament to our vision of making chess fun, accessible, and rewarding for everyone,” said Akshat Bansal, co-founder of Ziffi Chess. “We’re excited to scale our platform and bring the thrill of rapid chess to millions more.”
Market Insights: The Rise of Skill-Based Gaming
India’s online gaming industry is on a meteoric rise, projected to reach $7.5 billion by 2028, according to a 2025 report by Deloitte India. With over 560 million gamers and increasing smartphone penetration, the sector is witnessing a shift toward skill-based games like chess, rummy, and fantasy sports. Ziffi Chess’s unique format taps into this trend, offering a blend of strategy and entertainment that appeals to India’s young, tech-savvy population.
The following table highlights the growth trajectory of India’s online gaming market:
Online Gaming Market Growth.md
markdown
| Year | Market Size (USD Bn) | Annual Growth Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2.6 | 28% |
| 2024 | 3.5 | 34% |
| 2025 | 4.8 | 37% |
| 2028 | 7.5 (Projected) | 16% (CAGR) |
Source: Deloitte India Gaming Report 2025
Strategic Expansion and Technological Innovation
Ziffi Chess plans to allocate a significant portion of the funds to enhance its AI-driven matchmaking system, ensuring players are paired with opponents of similar skill levels for a balanced experience. The platform will also introduce new features, such as personalized chess tutorials, live tournaments, and social integration, to boost user engagement. Additionally, the company is exploring international markets, with a focus on Southeast Asia and the Middle East, where chess enjoys a strong following.
Tanglin Venture Partners, known for backing high-growth startups like Zepto and Supertails, expressed optimism about Ziffi Chess’s potential. “Ziffi Chess is redefining how people engage with chess, making it fast, fun, and rewarding,” said a spokesperson from Tanglin. “Their innovative approach and strong execution make them a standout in the gaming ecosystem.”
Competitive Landscape
Ziffi Chess operates in a competitive yet rapidly growing market, alongside platforms like Chess.com and Lichess. However, its 6-move format and real-money gaming model set it apart, offering a unique value proposition. The platform’s compliance with AIGF standards and partnerships with trusted payment gateways further enhance its credibility in the real-money gaming segment, which is expected to grow at a CAGR of 20% through 2028.
Looking Ahead
With chess gaining mainstream appeal in India, Ziffi Chess is well-positioned to ride this wave. The startup’s focus on accessibility, innovation, and user engagement, coupled with strong financial backing, makes it a formidable player in the online gaming space. As it scales, Ziffi Chess aims to not only dominate the Indian market but also establish itself as a global leader in skill-based gaming.
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Last Updated on Monday, September 8, 2025 8:47 am by Startup Newswire Team
