The president of the team behind World of Warcraft, Hearthstone, and Overwatch is stepping down. Mike Morhaime of Blizzard Entertainment is leaving the gaming developer. An official statement released on their website says,
“After many years of working with some of the industry’s most talented people to create games and worlds for you to play in, I’ve decided it’s time for someone else to lead Blizzard Entertainment. I will now serve as an advisor to the company I so love and admire. My duties as president of Blizzard will be assumed by my friend, colleague, trusted advisor, and longtime steward of World of Warcraft, J. Allen Brack.”
The company tweeted their response to the news saying,
Mike – thank you for everything: for setting the foundation for the games, worlds and communities that we love, and for being a guiding light and an example for us all.
— Blizzard Entertainment (@Blizzard_Ent) October 3, 2018
Morhaime has been with the company for 27 years. He co-founded the video game developer and publisher in 1991, where he was also the vice president. He is stepping down, while J. Allen Brack is taking his place.
“I am grateful to all of the hardworking and talented people at Blizzard for their dedication and creativity. Their belief in our mission and care for our players has helped Blizzard reach greater heights than I ever could have imagined.”
Brack’s Linkedin states he’s been with the company since 2006 and started as a Senior Producer. His career path of 12 years at Blizzard saw him become a Production Director, Executive Producer, Vice President, Senior President, and now the head honcho of it all. Brack says,
“Today has been a swirl of emotions. First, I feel a deep sense of gratitude to Mike. His work on some of our industry’s most iconic games is the reason I came to Blizzard. Not only is he an inspiring leader, but he’s also been a wise and patient mentor to me during my time at Blizzard. And he’s been a good friend. Joining the World of Warcraft team and my favorite game company nearly 13 years ago was an unimaginable dream. Now, to be chosen to lead Blizzard into the future is both a huge honor, and a tremendous responsibility.”
J. – we can’t wait to continue building the best future for Blizzard alongside you. Exciting things are ahead under your leadership.
— Blizzard Entertainment (@Blizzard_Ent) October 3, 2018
Morhaime was one of the original creators of the iconic gaming company when it was called Silicon and Synapse.