Arkane Studios’ journey hinges on Dishonored 2’s artistic triumph
Former designer reveals how the acclaimed sequel’s quality secured Arkane’s future with Bethesda.

A former Arkane Studios designer has revealed that Dishonored 2’s artistic excellence played a crucial role in maintaining the studio’s relationship with Bethesda, despite the game’s commercial performance not meeting expectations. The 2016 stealth action RPG, while not achieving the sales figures of other Bethesda titles, earned widespread critical acclaim for its refined gameplay and innovative design.
The gaming community has long celebrated the Dishonored series for its unique blend of stealth mechanics and supernatural elements. While Bethesda’s Elder Scrolls franchise commands a larger market presence, Dishonored has carved out its own dedicated following among stealth genre enthusiasts. However, internal discussions at Bethesda initially raised concerns about the studio’s future.
Former Arkane designer Julien Eveillé shared insights about the game’s development, noting that Dishonored 2’s production budget exceeded that of Skyrim. Despite lower sales figures, the game’s exceptional polish and innovative design earned it recognition as one of the most refined titles in Bethesda’s portfolio, ultimately preserving the publisher’s faith in Arkane’s capabilities.
Arkane’s legacy continues through new projects and transitions
The studio’s commitment to quality has yielded long-term benefits. In the years following Dishonored 2’s release, Arkane continued to develop games under Bethesda’s banner, including the 2021 release Deathloop. The studio is currently working on Marvel’s Blade, targeting a potential 2027 release, demonstrating Bethesda’s ongoing confidence in their creative vision.
Recent industry changes have impacted Arkane’s structure, with Xbox’s closure of Arkane Austin in 2024 marking a significant shift. While some Bethesda studios survived similar restructuring, including Tango Gameworks, the Austin team’s closure led to new opportunities, with Judas developer Ken Levine expressing interest in recruiting former team members, highlighting the lasting value of Arkane’s reputation for excellence.