Harvey Smith Focuses on Immersive Sims with New Studio
Deus Ex and Dishonored designer brings a fresh perspective to the gaming world.
1The Founding of Black Pony Immersive
Deus Ex and Dishonored designer Harvey Smith, along with longtime collaborator Ben Horne, has founded a new studio called Black Pony Immersive. The studio will focus on narrative-rich first-person action RPGs, a genre Smith is known for: immersive sims. Based in Austin, Texas, the studio also includes remote workers from across the United States.
2Experienced Team
Black Pony Immersive is staffed with veterans from major studios like Arkane, Insomniac, Epic, Avalanche, and Volition. Ricardo Bare, creative director of Redfall, Prey, and Dishonored, joins as design director. Ben Horne has worked with Smith for eight years, most recently as production director of Redfall at Arkane Austin.
3Industry Challenges
The launch of Black Pony Immersive comes during a turbulent time for the gaming industry. Xbox initiated a wave of layoffs and studio reshuffling in July, with the potential closure of Arkane Studios and cancellation of the Blade game on the table. Harvey Smith was the head of Arkane Austin, which was shut down in 2024.
4The Legacy of Immersive Sims
Black Pony Immersive aims to continue the legacy of immersive sims by focusing on this genre. The studio’s website features the line, "Through the looking glass, we're chasing a dream of mystery, meaning, and creative play." This is a nod to Looking Glass Studios, which defined the genre in the 1990s with games like System Shock, Thief, and Ultima Underworld.
5Harvey Smith's Statement
In a press release announcing Black Pony Immersive, Harvey Smith said: "During a time of industry volatility, I'm proud to announce the next step in my video game journey with the reveal of our new studio. This effort reflects everything we've learned, and all we hold dear. My favorite gaming memories come from seeing players approach challenges with creativity."
6Gameplay Style and Goals
Black Pony Immersive aims to create single-player games that reward players for their curiosity and exploration, featuring rich worlds and emergent gameplay mechanics. The studio’s focus is to preserve the core elements of immersive sims while delivering new and original experiences. This aims to fill a gap in the gaming industry.
7Industry Gap
The founding of Black Pony Immersive highlights a gap in the gaming industry for immersive sims. Harvey Smith and his team have come together to shape the future of this genre. The studio aims to carry forward the legacy of Looking Glass Studios, marking the beginning of a new era. This is an exciting development for gamers.
8Future Expectations
Black Pony Immersive’s first project has yet to be announced, but the studio’s focus on immersive sims promises to bring fresh energy to the gaming world. Harvey Smith and his team aim to deliver rich worlds where players can unleash their creativity. This could be a significant step for the gaming industry.