Former Arkane Austin leads Harvey Smith, Ben Horne, and Ricardo Bare have announced the formation of a new studio, Black Pony Immersive. The founders, known for their work on titles like Deus Ex and Dishonored, intend to focus on immersive sim experiences similar to their previous successes.
Reflections on Redfall
In a recent discussion with The Game Business, Smith and Horne addressed the development of Redfall, which was the final project released by Arkane Austin before the studio's closure in 2024. Smith characterized the project as a difficult production, citing a lack of studio experience with the games-as-a-service format and pressure from parent company ZeniMax to pursue live-service projects.
Smith noted that internal challenges, including continued staff reductions and the COVID-19 pandemic, contributed to the game's state at launch. He credited Microsoft with allowing laid-off employees to remain on the project to complete a final send-off patch for the game.
Industry Context
The establishment of Black Pony Immersive comes during a period of significant industry contraction and layoffs across the gaming sector. Smith and Horne stated that their goal with the new studio is to return to the type of immersive projects that defined their earlier careers, despite the current financial and operational hurdles facing game developers.
Quick Facts
- New Studio: Black Pony Immersive
- Founders: Harvey Smith, Ben Horne, and Ricardo Bare
- Arkane Austin Status: Closed in 2024
- Redfall Release Date: May 1, 2023