John Smedley's Distinct Possibility Studios Secures $30.5 Million for Web3-Optional Shooter 'Reaper Actual'

Distinct Possibility Studios, the new venture from gaming industry veteran John Smedley, has announced its debut title, "Reaper Actual," a large-scale persistent online open-world first-person shooter. The studio also revealed a successful funding round, raising $30.5 million to support the game's development. This investment was co-led by Bitkraft Ventures and Brevan Howard Digital, with additional participation from the Tezos Foundation, Hashed, Delphi Ventures, and Shima Capital.

"Reaper Actual" is set on the fictional island of Marova, a sprawling environment four times the size of Call of Duty: Warzone's largest map, designed to host up to 200 players per server. The game blends player-versus-player (PvP) and player-versus-environment (PvE) elements, allowing players to engage in dynamic faction warfare, build and defend bases, and utilize a deep crafting system for gear and vehicles. John Smedley, known for his work on "EverQuest" and "Planetside," is joined by former "Planetside 2" creative director Matt Higby, who serves as Chief Creative Officer, and artist Trammell Isaac.

A key aspect of "Reaper Actual" is its optional integration of Web3 technology. While the game will be available on traditional platforms like Steam and the Epic Games Store without any blockchain components, a separate version will leverage the Etherlink blockchain for user-generated content, asset ownership, and trading. This includes crafting guns and gear, as well as options for renting and modding servers. Smedley emphasized that these Web3 elements will be cosmetic only, ensuring no "pay-to-win" mechanics.

"Web3 done right," Smedley stated, expressing his belief that this approach will "sell gamers on blockchain" by offering tangible ownership without impacting core gameplay balance.

The game aims to create a living, evolving battlefield where player actions directly influence territorial control and narrative progression. An advanced AI system, dubbed Cerberus, dynamically generates missions that can pit human players against each other, fostering constant conflict and strategic engagements. Distinct Possibility Studios, which has been in development for two years, plans to launch a pre-alpha "Foundation" release in the near future.