Seriously

High-Level Overview

Seriously Digital Entertainment Inc. (commonly known as Seriously) is a mobile game development company founded in 2013, best known for its hit game Best Fiends. It builds casual mobile games targeted at Western audiences, serving gamers seeking engaging, free-to-play puzzle and strategy experiences, and solves the problem of delivering addictive, high-quality mobile entertainment through strong product design and brand marketing.[2] Backed by venture firm Upfront Ventures, Seriously achieved notable growth before its acquisition by Israeli mobile game giant Playtika Ltd. in August (year not specified in sources, but pre-2025), expanding Playtika's portfolio in Western markets.[2]

Origin Story

Seriously was founded in 2013 in Venice, California, by a team including CEO Andrew Stalbow, with early backing from Santa Monica-based Upfront Ventures.[2] The idea emerged from a focus on developing mobile games, quickly gaining traction with "Best Fiends," a popular puzzle-adventure title that established its reputation in the competitive mobile gaming space.[2] A pivotal moment came with its acquisition by Playtika, announced on August 26, allowing Seriously to leverage Playtika's expertise in AI, analytics, online marketing, and live operations while contributing its strengths in product, brand, and offline marketing; the deal keeps its Venice offices operational.[2]

Core Differentiators

• Proven Hit Franchise: Best known for Best Fiends, a standout mobile game that drove recognition and appeal in casual gaming.[2]
• Marketing Expertise: Strong in product development, brand building, and offline marketing, complementing acquirer's tech strengths like AI and analytics.[2]
• Western Market Focus: Specializes in games tailored for Western audiences, aiding Playtika's expansion goals.[2]
• Team Continuity: Maintains independent offices post-acquisition, preserving operational agility.[2]

(Note: Other "Seriously"-named entities like Serious Technology (2004, Kuala Lumpur-based outsourcing/consulting[1]) or Serious Development (US healthcare software[3]) appear unrelated based on distinct focuses and locations.)

Role in the Broader Tech Landscape

Seriously rides the wave of mobile gaming dominance, particularly free-to-play models with in-app purchases, a sector fueled by smartphone proliferation and Western market demand for polished casual titles.[2] Timing aligns with consolidations in gaming, where acquirers like Playtika bolster portfolios via talent and IP buys to counter market saturation and compete globally.[2] It influences the ecosystem by enhancing Playtika's Western push, blending creative game design with advanced tech like AI-driven operations, amid broader trends of cross-studio synergies in a $100B+ mobile games industry.

Quick Take & Future Outlook

Post-acquisition, Seriously will likely deepen Best Fiends expansions and new titles, powered by Playtika's tech stack for faster iteration and monetization.[2] Trends like AI-enhanced live ops and hybrid marketing will shape its path, potentially elevating its role in Playtika's ambition to lead Western mobile gaming.[2] As integrations mature, expect amplified influence through scaled user acquisition—cementing Seriously as a key asset in gaming's ongoing consolidation era, much like its pivot from indie developer to powerhouse contributor.