Veteran game developer Jason Blundell, renowned for his contributions to the Call of Duty Zombies franchise, has announced a new partnership with PlayStation.  This time, he's at the helm of a newly formed studio known as Dark Outlaw.

PlayStation has a history of collaborating with Blundell, recognizing his expertise in multiplayer game development. While previous ventures haven't always reached fruition, this renewed partnership holds promise, leveraging the lessons learned from past experiences.

In recent years, PlayStation has navigated a shifting landscape within the gaming industry, particularly with the challenges faced by live-service games.  The closure of Deviation Games, despite its team's impressive pedigree with franchises like Halo, Call of Duty, and Destiny, prompted a period of reflection and reassessment for the company. Now, PlayStation appears to be forging a new path forward, once again enlisting the talents of past collaborators like Blundell.

The announcement of Dark Outlaw came during a recent episode of The Jeff Gerstmann Show podcast.  Blundell revealed that the studio has been “working away in the shadows,” prioritizing game development over premature announcements.  This approach reflects a shift in strategy, focusing on delivering a high-quality product before generating public hype.

This measured approach contrasts with the earlier fanfare surrounding Deviation Games, founded by Blundell and Dave Anthony in 2020. That venture ultimately dissolved before any project reached completion. Blundell’s current emphasis on quiet development suggests a learned prudence and a renewed commitment to delivering on promises. He expressed optimism about the future, highlighting the importance of perseverance in the face of setbacks.  

The gaming community eagerly anticipates further details about Dark Outlaw's project. It's likely that PlayStation will showcase the game at a future event, revealing more about Blundell's vision and the studio's ambitious plans.