Chris Kerr,

Senior Editor, News,GameDeveloper.com

June 30, 2026

1 Min Read

Former nDreams CEO and co-founder Patrick O'Luanaigh has established a new indie game studio called Atmospheric that will also venture into the world of music production.

O'Luanaigh departed VR specialist nDreams in 2025 after two decades at the helm. His exit came two years after the company was acquired by tech group Aonic for $110 million. The move preceded widespread layoffs at the studio.

The veteran exec is positioning his latest venture as an expansive 'independent entertainment company' that will build original franchises by uniting video games and music.

"Atmospheric is about creating experiences that people don't just play or listen to, but feel," said O'Luanaigh. "After a decade of focusing on leadership and studio building, I'm incredibly excited to get back to hands-on creation and development."

The company will operate out of Woking, UK, where a purpose-built recording and game development studio has been established. The office combines professional recording, mixing, and music production facilities with a game production environment.

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"The studio is built around a new 36-channel Audient ASP8024-HE recording console complemented by SSL and Neve outboard channel strips, and Genelec 8361A studio monitors," adds a press release.

Atmospheric is currently developing a slate of original projects it claims will "extend naturally across games, music and other formats." The company has pledged to share more details later this year.

About the Author

Chris Kerr

Senior Editor, News, GameDeveloper.com

Game Developer news editor Chris Kerr is an award-winning reporter with over a decade of experience in the game industry. His byline has appeared in notable print and digital publications including Edge, Stuff, Wireframe, International Business Times, and PocketGamer.biz. Throughout his career, Chris has covered major industry events including GDC, PAX Australia, Gamescom, Paris Games Week, and Develop Brighton.