Heart Machine

Heart Machine is an independent video game development studio founded in 2013 by designer and director Alx Preston. Based in Culver City in the Greater Los Angeles area, it creates original games built around atmospheric worlds, narrative-driven action, fluid combat and kinetic movement. Its work spans detailed 2D pixel art and expansive 3D environments, with a recurring emphasis on surreal settings and storytelling through world design.

The studio established its creative identity with Hyper Light Drifter, released in 2016. Its intricate pixel art, challenging action and atmospheric storytelling became defining elements of Heart Machine's approach. The game received critical recognition, including multiple Independent Games Festival awards.

With Solar Ash, released in December 2021 and published by Annapurna Interactive, the studio brought its world-building into three dimensions. The game centers on high-speed traversal and platforming, extending the studio's interest in movement and striking environments into a different visual and mechanical format.

Its subsequent projects include Hyper Light Breaker, an open-world 3D cooperative action roguelite set in the Hyper Light universe and published by Arc Games, and Possessor(s), a 2D side-scrolling action game published by Devolver Digital. Together, these projects reflect a development practice that moves between visual formats while retaining a focus on action, atmosphere and distinctive fictional worlds.

Heart Machine's capabilities cover full-cycle game development, including game and level design, gameplay and systems programming, narrative design, world lore, 2D animation, 3D character and environment art, and audio integration. Its production work combines creative direction, technical development and original intellectual property creation.