LVL Zero Unveils 10 Startups-Cohort With $10,000 Grants

LVL Zero has selected 10 startups for its first gaming incubator cohort, providing equity-free grants and structured support aimed at helping Indian developers target global markets. Backed by MIXI Global Investments, Nazara Technologies, and Chimera VC, the program chose the startups from more than 240 applications. Each team will receive $10K USD (~INR ₹928,717) and participate in a 100-day incubation program.

The inaugural batch includes:

• Rudrac Games
• Arckon Arts
• Impulse Mechanics
• Trojan Productions
• Kalp Studio
• Kyrel Games
• Prescription Studios
• YK Game Studio
• Wrought Studio
• Xigma Games

The cohort spans multiple stages, from live products to beta, alpha, and prototypes. Eight startups are building for PC and console, signaling a shift beyond mobile-first development.

Krish Anurag, managing partner at Chimera VC and founding partner of LVL Zero, said the initiative addresses a gap where “access to capital, distribution, knowledge, and talent existed but lacked integration.” He added that the 100-day program will help teams move from prototypes to globally competitive products.

Indian Game Startups Target Global Audiences Through LVL Zero Cohort

Several projects incorporate Indian settings and themes as global differentiators. Kalp Studio’s Raahi is set in a 1990s Goa-inspired town, while Rudrac Games’ Twin Flames draws from Indian philosophy.

Meanwhile, Xigma Games is developing the 4X strategy title, Metal Haven. Narrative-driven games include PHi: The Broken Strings by Kyrel Games and Last Day Lockdown by Wrought Studio. Experimental concepts also appear, including YK Game Studio’s Human Products.

The program runs across three phases: ignition, core build, and market readiness. 

These startups receive mentorship from over 28 global experts, access to publishers, playtesting, quality assurance, and investor readiness support. Nazara Technologies' strategy head, Deepak MV, said early exposure to markets, publishers, and distribution will help founders align products with commercial success.

With access to MIXI, Nazara, and Chimera VC, the cohort aims to strengthen India’s original intellectual property (IP) and global competitiveness.