In recent weeks, whispers of a new PlayStation first-party studio have been circulating throughout the gaming industry. With job postings surfacing for a studio tasked with creating “the next groundbreaking AAA original IP,” speculation reached fever pitch. Finally, the mystery has been solved. In a revealing interview with Jeff Gerstmann, industry veteran Jason Blundell confirmed he is at the helm of a newly established PlayStation studio called Dark Outlaw Games.
This announcement comes as a surprise to many, as it marks a fresh chapter for Blundell following tumultuous events surrounding his previous venture, Deviation Games. Dark Outlaw Games represents not only a new creative endeavor for Blundell but also a significant addition to PlayStation Studios’ roster of talent. Let’s delve into what this means for both the studio and the gaming world.
A New Chapter for Jason Blundell
Jason Blundell is no stranger to the gaming industry. His tenure at Treyarch, one of Activision’s most prestigious studios, saw him contribute to some of the most iconic entries in the Call of Duty franchise. Titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops and World at War remain beloved by fans for their gripping narratives and innovative gameplay mechanics. Blundell’s expertise in crafting compelling, high-stakes experiences positions him perfectly to spearhead a new first-party studio at Sony.
Blundell’s journey with PlayStation began in 2021 when he co-founded Deviation Games alongside fellow Treyarch alum Dave Anthony. At the time, the duo’s partnership with Sony promised exciting developments, with the studio aiming to produce its own original intellectual property. However, less than two years later, Blundell departed the company, leaving fans and industry watchers puzzled. Deviation Games ultimately shuttered its doors last year, casting doubt on whether Blundell would return to the spotlight.
Now, with Dark Outlaw Games, Blundell is back—and this time, he’s doing so under the banner of PlayStation Studios. In his interview with Gerstmann, Blundell expressed his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to join Sony. “It’s such a privilege we get to do [Dark Outlaw Games] with Sony as a new first-party studio,” he said. “Sony doesn’t set up first-party studios all the time, so to have that privilege is humbling. I’m really excited.”
Dark Outlaw Games: A Studio in the Shadows
While details about Dark Outlaw Games remain scarce, Blundell provided some insight into the studio’s current state. He confirmed that Dark Outlaw Games is still in its infancy, actively staffing up for its inaugural project. However, the studio has been quietly working behind the scenes for “a little bit of time” now, striving to reach what Blundell referred to as “escape velocity”—a term often used to describe the moment when a project gains enough momentum to break free from early development stages.
What kind of game Dark Outlaw Games is developing remains a tantalizing mystery. Blundell offered no concrete details about the studio’s creative direction, leaving fans to speculate about the type of experience it might deliver. Given his background in the Call of Duty series, it’s possible that Dark Outlaw Games could explore similar themes of high-octane action and narrative depth. Alternatively, the studio might chart a completely new path, venturing into uncharted territories of storytelling and gameplay mechanics.
Regardless of the specifics, the prospect of a new AAA original IP from Sony’s first-party stable is undeniably exciting. PlayStation Studios has consistently delivered some of the most memorable games in recent memory, from God of War to Horizon Zero Dawn. Dark Outlaw Games now joins this illustrious list, promising to contribute its own unique voice to the PlayStation ecosystem.
A Return to Form for Jason Blundell
Blundell’s transition to Dark Outlaw Games represents a return to form for a seasoned developer who has spent years honing his craft. His work at Treyarch earned him a reputation for pushing boundaries in the competitive arena of first-person shooters. Now, with the backing of PlayStation Studios, he has the resources and support to bring his vision to life.
Blundell’s decision to leave Deviation Games and rejoin Sony raises interesting questions about his motivations. Was it a desire to return to the fold of a major publisher, or did he seek to distance himself from the turmoil surrounding his previous venture? Whatever the reason, his presence at Dark Outlaw Games signals a renewed commitment to creating impactful, innovative games.
The Role of PlayStation Studios
PlayStation Studios has long been a beacon of excellence in the gaming industry, consistently delivering games that resonate with players on both an emotional and technical level. The addition of Dark Outlaw Games strengthens Sony’s position as a leader in AAA game development. With studios like Naughty Dog, Guerrilla Games, and Insomniac Games already under its umbrella, PlayStation Studios now welcomes a fresh perspective from Blundell and his team.
Sony’s decision to establish Dark Outlaw Games reflects its ongoing investment in nurturing talent and fostering creativity. By giving Blundell the freedom to build a studio from the ground up, Sony demonstrates its commitment to supporting developers who aspire to create groundbreaking experiences. This approach not only benefits the studios themselves but also enriches the PlayStation ecosystem as a whole.
A Glimpse Into the Future
While Dark Outlaw Games remains shrouded in secrecy, its arrival on the scene is a testament to Sony’s dedication to expanding its first-party portfolio. As Blundell and his team continue to staff up and refine their vision, anticipation builds for what they might achieve. Could Dark Outlaw Games redefine the boundaries of AAA gaming? Could it introduce a new genre or storytelling technique that captivates audiences worldwide?
Only time will tell. For now, fans can look forward to updates as Dark Outlaw Games emerges from the shadows and steps into the light. In the meantime, Blundell’s confirmation of his leadership role adds a layer of credibility and excitement to the studio’s prospects. With a veteran like Blundell at the helm, Dark Outlaw Games is poised to make waves in the gaming world.
Dark Outlaw Games represents a thrilling new chapter for Jason Blundell and PlayStation Studios. As a fresh addition to Sony’s first-party family, the studio carries immense potential to deliver something truly special. Blundell’s track record speaks volumes, and his enthusiasm for the project is infectious. While the exact nature of Dark Outlaw Games’ endeavors remains a mystery, one thing is certain: the gaming community eagerly awaits what this enigmatic studio has in store.
For now, Dark Outlaw Games exists in a state of quiet anticipation, biding its time until it’s ready to reveal its hand. When that moment arrives, it will undoubtedly mark a significant milestone in the annals of PlayStation history. Until then, all eyes are on Blundell and his team as they work tirelessly to bring their vision to fruition.
Add Comment