Early Life
Igor Bukhman was born on March 29, 1982, in Vologda, Russia. Growing up in a working-class family, he developed an early interest in programming. In 1999, he enrolled in Vologda State Pedagogical Institute to study Applied Mathematics. In 2001, he and his brother Dmitry began developing online games, marking the start of their entrepreneurial journey.
Rise to Success
In 2004, the Bukhman brothers founded Playrix, which became known for its mobile-app games like Homescapes and Fishdom. Recognizing the shift towards mobile gaming, Igor strategically focused Playrix on mobile platforms, leading to global success. In 2018, he invested in video game developers Nexters Global and Vizor Games. The brothers launched Rix Capital in 2021, a family investment firm managing billions in personal funds.
Key Business Strategies
Igor's strategies include a focus on mobile gaming, strategic acquisitions, and investment in other gaming companies. The acquisition of studios like Plexonic and Eipix Entertainment expanded Playrix's capabilities and diversified its game offerings. By 2023, Playrix employed over 3,000 people worldwide and ranked among the top mobile publishers by revenue.
Philanthropy
In 2023, Igor and his wife, Anastasia, established the Bukhman Foundation. The foundation focuses on medical research, education, and arts & culture. In 2025, the foundation pledged £100 million to accelerate research on type 1 diabetes treatments.
