Arkadium, Inc.

History and Founding

Arkadium was founded in 2001 in New York City by Jessica Rovello and Kenny Rosenblatt, inspired by a game of Ms. Pac-Man. Starting as a two-person operation, the company grew into a leading force in casual browser gaming. In 2011, it was selected by Microsoft to develop the Microsoft Solitaire Collection, a landmark project that brought the classic card game to Windows 8, Windows 10, and mobile devices. Arkadium also modernized Microsoft's Minesweeper. The company faced a significant challenge in 2014 when it was forced to relocate and reduce its 100-person development team in Russia following the annexation of Crimea. In 2018, it used profits to buy out its venture investors, returning to full private ownership under the founders. That year, Jessica Rovello became CEO, and in 2024 she transitioned to Executive Chairwoman, with co-founder Kenny Rosenblatt returning as CEO.

Business Model

Arkadium's business model centers on free-to-play games monetized through advertising and premium subscriptions. Its proprietary distribution network embeds games on high-traffic publisher sites, providing a reliable revenue stream and broad audience reach. The company operates a cross-platform subscription service called Arkadium Advantage, offering ad-free gaming for players aged 35 and older, and InHabit, a custom advertising product for branded games and interactive campaigns. Its technology stack, powered by Databricks and Delta Lake, enables real-time data analytics to improve user retention and monetization.

Products and Platforms

Arkadium's key products include its own website Arkadium.com, which hosts a library of casual games; the Microsoft Solitaire Collection and modern Minesweeper for Microsoft; Arkadium Advantage subscription; InHabit ad product; and the Arkadium for Developers third-party publishing program launched in 2024, which offers a 75% revenue share and a $1 million publishing fund (APF1). The company also operates a Connect Platform for analytics and content management. Hit titles include Word Wipe, Mahjongg Dimensions, Outspell, Hurdle, Crystal Collapse, Block Champ, and a published version of Cut the Rope.

Market Position and Partnerships

Arkadium reaches over 25 million monthly users, and in 2018 its games were played 830 million times. It distributes games through major digital publishers such as USA Today, The Washington Post, AARP, and MSN. The company has partnered with Sony, Famobi, and Article 19 to bring branded and original browser games to its platform. Arkadium remains employee-owned and employs approximately 100 people. It has been consistently recognized as a top workplace and a Forbes "Small Giant" in 2019.

Recent Developments

In 2024, Arkadium opened its distribution network to third-party developers through the Arkadium for Developers initiative, backed by a $1 million fund to support external game developers. The company also continues to expand its subscription and advertising products, focusing on a senior audience with Arkadium Advantage.