Distinct Possibility Studios, a gaming studio co-founded by EverQuest co-creator John Smedley, has raised $30.5 million in a funding round led by Bitkraft Ventures and Brevan Howard Digital. This marks the studio's first major entry into the Web3 gaming space.
The funds will be used to develop Reaper Actual, an upcoming open-world massively multiplayer online first-person shooter (MMOFPS) that integrates blockchain technology via Etherlink, a Tezos layer-2 blockchain. This integration enables tradeable Web3 components such as characters, bases, and skins, supporting the game's vision of "Play, Own, Trade".
John Smedley, a veteran known for his work on EverQuest and PlanetSide 2, leads the studio, which includes industry veterans from companies like Riot Games, Blizzard Entertainment, Sony, Amazon, Ubisoft, and Epic. The game is designed to blend MMORPG and FPS elements in a unique way and will launch on platforms including Steam, the Epic Games Store, and its official website.
The choice of Etherlink and Tezos was strategic, emphasizing scalability, energy efficiency, and secure smart contracts to support a seamless and sustainable blockchain gaming experience. The studio aims to make Web3 gaming accessible and optional for traditional gamers, focusing on gameplay and retention rather than purely profit-driven engagement.
The funding round also saw participation from The Tezos Foundation, Hashed, Delphi Ventures, Shima Capital, North Island Ventures, and others, reflecting strong institutional confidence in the project and the potential for blockchain integration in AAA gaming titles.
In summary:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Studio | Distinct Possibility Studios |
| Lead Investor(s) | Bitkraft Ventures, Brevan Howard Digital |
| Funding Amount | $30.5 million |
| Game | Reaper Actual, a Web3 open-world MMOFPS shooter |
| Blockchain Integration | Etherlink (Tezos Layer 2) |
| Key Features | Tradeable in-game assets (characters, bases, skins), PvPvE gameplay, MMORPG + FPS blend |
| Leadership | John Smedley (EverQuest co-creator) |
| Launch Platforms | Steam, Epic Games Store, official website |
| Additional Investors | The Tezos Foundation, Hashed, Delphi Ventures, Shima Capital, North Island Ventures |
This investment and project highlight a significant push in the gaming industry to combine AAA game quality with blockchain technology, aiming to overcome past challenges in Web3 gaming adoption and retention