If you have a soft spot for the Dishonored series, this news is going to make your day. A veteran lead from Arkane Austin, the studio that defined the immersive sim, has announced the formation of a brand-new development house.

On May 19, Harvey Smith, a name synonymous with Arkane Austin, announced the launch of a new outfit, Black Pony Immersive, alongside long-time collaborator Ben Horne. Smith brings over 30 years of industry experience to the table, having served as lead designer on the original Deus Ex before moving to Arkane to co-direct Dishonored and steer Dishonored 2 as creative director.

Black Pony Immersive is focusing its efforts on a single-player, first-person action RPG that prioritizes player agency, exploration, and unpredictable systems. The goal is to deliver a narrative-driven experience where players engage with intricately connected, organic systems. As for the project's title, setting, platforms, or release window, the studio is keeping its cards close to its chest for now.

The team isn't just a two-person show. The studio has assembled a roster of talent from the likes of Arkane, Insomniac, Epic Games, and Avalanche—veterans who cut their teeth on titles like Deus Ex, Dishonored, Prey, and Just Cause. Ben Horne noted, "This group has worked together for years, even decades, and we've specifically assembled this team to build immersive sims."

Dishonored remains the gold standard for many in the genre. Set in a steampunk-infused world, the story follows Corvo, who was framed for the assassination of the Empress. Stuck in prison for a crime he didn't commit, Corvo breaks out, acquires supernatural abilities, and sets out to unravel the truth. It was a masterclass in freedom, offering players a sandbox of powers and unique assassination gameplay.

Arkane Austin also delivered gems like Prey, Deathloop, and Redfall. Unfortunately, after the catastrophic reception of Redfall in 2023, the studio was shuttered in 2024 as part of a wider Xbox restructuring. It is worth keeping a close eye on what this new collective brings to the table.