Ongoing
Signal Hill internal milestones
Core mechanics, map layout work, and foundational systems are under active development.
Independent Game Studio
Aethra Development
A studio focused on atmospheric, systems-driven experiences with strong identity and cinematic worldbuilding.
Currently in development: Signal Hill
Flagship Title
Signal Hill
A grounded, tension-focused horror experience for friends.
Conceptual visual. In-engine footage to be revealed.
Studio Focus
Aethra Development is built around tight, focused projects that put atmosphere, cooperation, and tension at the center. Instead of chasing trends, we chase identity: memorable locations, distinct tone, and clear game pillars.
Every system, mechanic, and visual choice serves mood and readability. From small-scale prototypes to larger co-op experiences, our goal is simple: create games that feel sharp, deliberate, and unforgettable with friends.
Flagship Title: Signal Hill
Signal Hill is designed as a grounded horror experience: no cheap chaos, no constant noise. Instead, it focuses on stretches of quiet tension, positional audio, and sudden spikes of pressure where coordination and decision-making matter.
StatusIn active development
FocusSmall-group co-op horror
TechUnreal Engine 5 on PC
ToneGrounded, tense, modern
Co-opPsychological HorrorFirst PersonStory-Driven
Games and Projects
Aethra Development works in focused phases: core prototypes, internal tools, and then full production when the identity is locked in.
In Development
Signal Hill
Flagship project
Ongoing
Internal Prototypes
Experimental gameplay sandboxes
Pre-production
Unannounced Title
Details to be revealed
Technology and Production
Aethra Development operates like a modern small studio: tight scope, strong pipelines, and a focus on maintaining a playable game early.
Unreal Engine 5
Leveraging modern rendering, world partitioning, and audio systems to support atmospheric experiences.
Systems-First Design
Gameplay built from clean, modular systems instead of one-off scripts. Easier to extend and iterate.
Networked Co-op
Focus on small-group cooperative play with clear comms, roles, and readable information.
Tooling & Pipelines
Internal tools to speed up level iteration, metrics gathering, and balancing, backed by automation.
Design Philosophy
The direction for Aethra Development is deliberate: fewer features, sharper identity, and games that feel like they could only exist in this specific world and tone.
Atmospheric First
Lighting, audio, and pacing are treated as core systems, not cosmetics. Every frame should support mood.
Co-op Clarity
Players need to read situations quickly. Information is limited but clear, encouraging communication.
Tension Over Chaos
Signal Hill is built around slow-burn tension spikes rather than constant noise and jump cuts.
Studio Timeline
Q2 - 2025
Foundation
Aethra Development identity is formed and the initial direction for Signal Hill takes shape.
Q3 - 2025
Core Development
Core gameplay loops, world building, and technical foundations for Signal Hill are actively developed.
Updates
Short notes from the studio as development progresses.
Live
Studio site and branding established
The Aethra Development site launches as the central hub for studio updates and information.
Soon
Future devlogs and technical breakdowns
Planned content detailing design decisions, technical approaches, and production pipeline.