Mike Morhaime has announced that he’s stepping down as CEO and president of Blizzard Entertainment, and will now slide into the role of advisor.
Morhaime has been with the World of Warcraft developer since its inception in 1991, when it was founded as Silicon & Synapse, Inc. J Allen Brack, former executive producer and senior vice president for World of Warcraft, will take his place, with Ray Gresko moving to chief development officer and Allen Adham joining the executive leadership team.
‘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,’ commented Morhaime.
‘I will now serve as an advisor to the company I so love and admire…I truly believe that this amazing community has the potential to be a shining light to the rest of the industry by setting a positive example of inclusivity, tolerance, and acceptance toward others. In the words of one of Blizzard’s core values: remember to always play nice; play fair.’
Brack also released a statement on Morhaime’s departure, where he confirmed that Blizzard has ‘several new games’ in the pipeline.
‘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.’
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
