nDreams founder has introduced a new studio named Atmospheric, which aims to develop "original IP across games and music"
Patrick O'Luanaigh, the individual who established the VR company nDreams, has initiated a fresh creative venture known as Atmospheric. This new independent venture aims to merge original intellectual properties from both the gaming and music sectors. In May 2025, O'Luanaigh decided to vacate his CEO position at nDreams after nearly two decades, a period that included the sale of the company to Aonic eighteen months earlier. Before founding nDreams, his career featured high-ranking positions at SCi, Eidos, and Codemasters.
The mission of Atmospheric involves innovative exploration in combining gaming and music, creating immersive environments where narrative, interactivity, and sound are intricately linked from the outset. The company emphasized a strategy focused on crafting unique worlds and storylines that effortlessly adapt across various platforms, including games and music.
In a discussion with GamesIndustry.biz, O'Luanaigh clarified that the studio is not aiming to develop a traditional music-centered game akin to Guitar Hero, Beat Saber, or PaRappa the Rapper. He suggested that the concept might be more comparable to the film 'Baby Driver', focusing on the influence of music on gameplay and the emotional responses it elicits from players.
With a passion for compelling narratives and intriguing characters, O'Luanaigh also enjoys the storytelling found in Telltale games and indie projects like Firewatch. As a part-time composer and audio engineer, he aims to create something distinct—an indie game that heavily features tension, story, music, and audio elements.
Currently the sole full-time member of Atmospheric, O'Luanaigh is collaborating with freelancers for specific aspects like art, writing, and coding. He has no plans to hire additional personnel until a publishing deal is secured, which he anticipates might happen early next year. The studio is operating with its own funds and has not sought outside financial backing. O'Luanaigh is optimistic about partnering with a publisher to financially support the first full game.
The desire to reconnect with hands-on coding and creative efforts was a significant factor in establishing Atmospheric. O'Luanaigh reflects fondly on his early career roles as a coder and creative director, noting that in his latter years at nDreams, his focus shifted towards managing people and investor relations. He cherishes the opportunity to return to his roots in creativity, aspiring to produce something unique and fulfilling with the help of talented collaborators.
Although proud of his tenure at nDreams and its accomplishments, O'Luanaigh found his happiest moments in the company's earlier, more innovative phase, contrasting with the pressure of leading a larger team on major projects. His aim with Atmospheric is to maintain a joyful and less stressful development process.