This 2-Minute Chess App Just Raised $5 Million – Could It Be the Next Big Gaming Sensation?

Ziffi Chess Raises $5 Million in Series A – Investors Bet Big on Fast-Paced Chess Gaming

In a move that’s turning heads in the gaming world, Ziffi Chess, a unique 2-minute chess format app, has raised $5 million (Rs 44.2 crore) in its Series A funding round. The round was led by Tanglin Venture Partners, with participation from existing investors India Quotient, DeVC, and others.

What makes this round even more intriguing is that the startup had previously raised around Rs 7.3 crore in a Seed round—but kept both rounds under wraps until now. With nearly $6 million in total funding, Ziffi Chess is quietly making waves.

Investors See Potential in Quick-Play Chess Battles

Tanglin Venture Partners led the round with Rs 34.4 crore (~$3.9 million), followed by India Quotient’s IQ Alpha IV, which contributed Rs 8.6 crore. The remaining capital came from DevC, Symphysis LSV LLP, and angel investor Rohan Nayak.

According to Entrackr, the Gurugram-based startup is now valued at Rs 206 crore (~$23.5 million) post-allotment—a strong endorsement for the platform’s growth potential.

Founders Retain Majority Stake

The round also reshuffled ownership. Tanglin Venture now holds a 16.67% stake, while India Quotient owns 15.2%. The two co-founders, Akshat Bansal and Aditya Dubey, retain a commanding 53.54% stake, ensuring their vision remains at the core of Ziffi’s expansion.

What Is Ziffi Chess?

Founded in 2023 by IIT-B alumni Akshat Bansal and Aditya Dubey, both of whom previously led the quick-commerce pivot at Blinkit, Ziffi Chess offers a fresh and addictive twist on the classic game of chess.

• Gameplay: Matches are limited to 2 minutes and 6 moves, encouraging strategic speed and nerve
• Rewards: Players compete for cash prizes, with a tournament mode prize pool of Rs 350
• Accessibility: Games can be played for free, making it easy for beginners and pros alike to jump in

The app’s emphasis on quick matches and cash rewards is a strategic move to capture the attention of users seeking fast entertainment.

How It Adapted After the Ban on Real-Money Games

Following the government’s ban on real-money online gaming, Ziffi Chess pivoted its model to ensure continued engagement. While earlier versions of the app charged entry fees starting from Rs 10, it now allows users to play for free, ensuring it remains accessible without regulatory hurdles.

Financial Snapshot: A Startup with Potential

In its very first year of operations (FY24), Ziffi Chess reported:

• Operating revenue: Rs 1.5 lakh
• Total expenses: Rs 87.65 lakh
• Net loss: Rs 86 lakh

Despite the early losses, investors are betting on its growth potential, innovative gameplay, and strategic pivot—a common trend for early-stage gaming startups aiming for market disruption.

Tanglin Venture Partners: A Trusted Name in Startup Investing

Tanglin Venture Partners, founded by former Tiger Global executive Ravi Venkatesh, is preparing to launch its third fund with a target of $250 million. Its impressive portfolio includes companies like Pocket FM, Moglix, Sugar.fit, Good Flippin’ Burgers, Open, Ninjacart, Jupiter, and many more.

Backing Ziffi Chess signals Tanglin’s confidence in India’s growing gaming sector and its appetite for investing in early-stage startups with disruptive potential.

Why Ziffi Chess Could Be a Game-Changer

✔ Innovative Format: The 2-minute, 6-move chess format is designed for modern gamers craving speed and thrill
✔ Scalable Model: Free-to-play matches ensure accessibility while tournament modes attract competitive players
✔ Adaptability: The pivot post-ban shows resilience and readiness to face regulatory challenges
✔ Strong Leadership: Founders with a proven track record and majority ownership ensure aligned interests
✔ Investor Confidence: Tanglin Venture’s deep experience and robust network bolster Ziffi’s credibility

What’s Next for Ziffi Chess?

With $5 million in fresh capital, Ziffi Chess is now geared to expand its user base, enhance its platform, and explore new features that could revolutionize how people play chess. It’s also poised to ride the wave of mobile gaming and instant entertainment, appealing to users with short attention spans but a desire for competitive play.

For investors, gaming enthusiasts, and tech watchers alike, Ziffi Chess’s journey is one to follow closely—it’s not just another game; it’s a bold experiment redefining digital chess.