My name is Thomas Mueller and I am the lead creator behind TORNBLADE.
I run a small studio focused on building independent games inspired by the spirit of the 80s and 90s — a time that shaped the way I think about game development. Back then, games were made out of passion, and technical limitations forced creativity. That philosophy still guides me today.
My studio is built around a clear, author-driven vision. I focus on projects that are raw, atmospheric, and deliberately crafted — games in which every element is created with intention and full commitment.
At the core of the team, we are two people:
Myself — responsible for the artistic vision, worldbuilding, gameplay design, narrative direction, and the overall creative direction of the project. I also create the majority of the visual content: character models, environment assets, 2D materials, animations, textures, music, and level design.
A collaborating programmer — who builds the technological foundation and the gameplay systems that drive the experience.
Together, we handle more than 95% of the entire production, from early prototypes to final implementation.
From time to time, I also work with external creators who support us in specific areas:
– 3D artists contributing selected models,
– illustrators and concept artists,
– additional programmers assisting with particular systems.
These collaborations are always task-based — tailored to the current needs of the project and aligned with my creative vision.
In my work, I prioritize:
– a cohesive and distinctive aesthetic,
– handcrafted locations and systems,
– the authenticity of independent creation,
drawing inspiration from classic games without mechanically repeating their formulas.
TORNBLADE is the first project developed under this model, but I see it as the beginning of a longer journey. My goal is to build a studio whose identity becomes recognizable at a glance — through its atmosphere, storytelling, and the character of the worlds I create.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at:
muellerxproductions@gmail.com
