Ironwood Studios Raises $4M in Seed Funding

Funding led by Lifelike Capital will support developer's next project

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Pacific Drive developer Ironwood Studios has secured $4 million in a seed funding round led by Lifelike Capital. The funds will be used to develop the studio's upcoming project.

Why it matters

The successful seed funding round for Ironwood Studios demonstrates investor confidence in the developer's ability to create engaging and commercially successful games, following the strong performance of their debut title Pacific Drive.

The details

Ironwood Studios CEO and creative director Cassandra Dracott expressed gratitude for the funding opportunity and excitement about the studio's future. Lifelike Capital co-founder and general partner Randy Lee praised Ironwood's talent, immersive world-building, and proven track record of shipping and launching a game, stating they are a "natural partner" for Lifelike.

  • Ironwood Studios was founded in 2019.
  • The studio released its first title, Pacific Drive, in February 2024.
  • By July 2024, Pacific Drive had sold 600,000 copies worldwide and surpassed 1 million sales within its first year.
  • In December 2024, it was announced that horror filmmaker James Wan had secured the rights to adapt Pacific Drive into a television series.
  • The $4 million seed funding round was announced on February 11, 2026.

The players

Ironwood Studios

A game development studio based in Seattle, Washington, founded in 2019 and known for its debut title Pacific Drive.

Cassandra Dracott

The CEO and creative director of Ironwood Studios.

Lifelike Capital

A venture capital firm that led the $4 million seed funding round for Ironwood Studios.

Randy Lee

The co-founder and general partner of Lifelike Capital.

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What they’re saying

“As a team we are very thankful for the opportunity to keep making games and at the same time so incredibly excited for what the future of Ironwood holds. This funding round points us towards the best version of that future and we're thrilled to work alongside Lifelike Capital to make it a reality.”

— Cassandra Dracott, CEO and Creative Director, Ironwood Studios (gamesindustry.biz)

“The moment we experienced Pacific Drive, it was clear this team has exceptional talent. Their ability to build an immersive world and innovative gameplay, combined with a proven track record of shipping and launching a game, makes them a natural partner for Lifelike. We're really excited for what they build next.”

— Randy Lee, Co-founder and General Partner, Lifelike Capital (gamesindustry.biz)

The takeaway

Ironwood Studios' successful seed funding round demonstrates the studio's ability to create commercially successful and critically acclaimed games, as evidenced by the strong performance of their debut title Pacific Drive. The investment from Lifelike Capital will allow the studio to continue developing innovative and immersive gaming experiences for players.