Harvey Smith Bets on Mystery as He Forms a Rebel Immersive-Sim Studio

Harvey Smith, co-creator of Dishonored, and Ben Horne launched Black Pony Immersive to build a new immersive sim in the Deus Ex/Thief lineage with a 26‑person remote team and mostly hands-off funding. They’re rejecting publisher trends like NFTs or AI, choosing partners who align with their goal of creating mystery‑driven experiences with lasting emotional impact, rather than quick ROI. The interview also touches on industry turmoil, Smith’s admiration for mentor Warren Spector, and the belief that great games become stories players discuss long after finishing them.