Gym Class - by IRL Studios
Gym Class, developed by IRL Studios, is a leading virtual reality sports game launched in October 2022, known for its top ratings on the Meta Quest Store and significant backing from major investors including Andreessen Horowitz and the NBA.
Company Overview
Gym Class, formerly known as IRL Studios Inc., is a virtual and augmented reality company operating out of Los Angeles, CA, USA, with a fully remote team. The company specializes in creating immersive virtual reality experiences and is part of the Winter 2022 Y-Combinator batch. Since its launch in October 2022 on the Meta Quest Store, Gym Class has become the #1 most played sports game and the best-rated overall experience on the platform, achieving a rating of 4.9 stars.
Founders and Team
Gym Class was established by a core team of 8 members committed to pioneering in the virtual and augmented reality sector. While specific names of the founders are not provided, the team operates remotely from various locations and has quickly gained recognition in the consumer technology space.
Funding and Investors
Since its inception, Gym Class has raised over $8 million from prominent technology investors and organizations. Notable backers include Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), Y Combinator, and the National Basketball Association (NBA). The company has also received investments from prominent NBA entities, such as the Golden State Warriors and top NBA players including Kevin Durant, Lonzo Ball, and Andre Iguodala. This robust funding has facilitated the company's rapid growth and development.
Products and Platforms
The flagship product of Gym Class is a virtual reality sports game available on the Meta Quest Store. It allows players to engage in immersive sports experiences, primarily basketball. Additionally, Gym Class offers a companion app for iPhone users to enhance their gameplay experience. The product's immediate success is reflected in its top ratings and widespread adoption among virtual reality enthusiasts.
Partnerships and Collaborations
In early 2023, Gym Class announced a licensing relationship with the NBA, marking a significant milestone for the company. This partnership is expected to enhance the game's authenticity and engagement, offering users an even more immersive experience. Strategic collaborations such as these are pivotal in cementing Gym Class's position as a leader in the VR sports gaming industry.