Harvey Smith launches Immersive studio
The world of immersive gaming is buzzing with news of a major creative shift, as a legendary figure in game design steps back into the spotlight. Former Arkane Austin studio director Harvey Smith has teamed up with executive producer Ben Horne to launch Black Pony Immersive, a new studio dedicated to crafting deeply imaginative first-person action RPGs.
This new venture isn’t just a new company; it’s a powerful coalition of talent. Black Pony Immersive is built around an elite development team, drawing on experience from some of the industry’s most respected names, including personnel from Arkane, Insomniac, Epic, Avalanche, and Volition. A key part of this powerhouse team includes Smith’s long-time collaborator, Ricardo Bare.
At the heart of Black Pony Immersive is a commitment to a specific style of gameplay: immersive sims. This isn’t just a passing trend; the studio aims to design and develop worlds where emergent game systems grant players freedom to approach challenges in unexpected and creative ways. They are focused on rewarding curiosity and deep exploration within meticulously realized worlds.
Smith, known for his work on classics like Deus Ex and Dishonored, sees this new direction as a perfect reflection of his passion. “My favorite gaming memories come from seeing players approach challenges with creativity, deep-diving into our world building,” Smith shared. He is now channeling that passion into building exactly the kind of single-player experiences he has always championed.
The studio’s mission, which they reflect on in their website, is beautifully concise: “Through the looking glass, we’re chasing a dream of mystery, meaning, and creative play.” This statement clearly signals an homage to legendary immersive sim studios like Looking Glass, positioning Black Pony Immersive as a successor in the tradition of complex, engaging world design.
Smith’s return to the industry comes at an interesting time. It follows the closure of Arkane Austin in 2024, a period marked by industry volatility. Smith noted that the studio’s shutdown was a shock, especially as they were reportedly working on something very cool when the decision was made. Now, he is pivoting that experience and creative energy into a new, exciting space.
Black Pony Immersive is poised to deliver the kind of thoughtful, system-driven action RPGs that demand player engagement. While the specific projects coming from the new studio are yet to be fully revealed, the foundation is set for a venture that promises to be both creatively ambitious and deeply rewarding for players who love to explore.
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