Boss Behind Upcoming Amazon Sport Departs, Says He Is Attempting “One thing New”

The top of the Amazon Video games Studios workplace in San Diego, John Smedley, is departing the corporate after six years. Smedley labored on varied initiatives over that point, however none of them has been launched.

In line with a report from Bloomberg, Smedley introduced his departure in a company-wide e mail. He mentioned that, “After a variety of thought, I’ve determined it is time for me to strive my hand at one thing new.” The letter additionally states that Andy Websites will step in as studio head, whereas Smedley assists to clean the transition. Smedley is greatest identified for his work on MMOs equivalent to Everquest and Star Wars Galaxies.

An announcement from an Amazon consultant to Bloomberg mentioned, “John is a recreation business legend, and we’re grateful for his contributions to Amazon Video games over the previous six years… [his team] stays targeted on bringing their unannounced mission to life. John is dedicated to staying on till the workforce is absolutely transitioned earlier than he strikes on to pursue one thing new.” Smedley’s departure coincides with widespread layoffs at Amazon.

Final yr, GameSpot profiled the vp of Amazon Video games, Christoph Hartmann, in an article by Eddie Makuch. Smedley is among the many topics interviewed, and claimed that Hartmann helped flip Amazon Video games into a correct gaming firm with a publishing wing. He additionally shared a narrative about pitching three video games to Hartmann, from which Hartman chosen the strangest and most tough of the bunch. Smedley mentioned, “He picked the toughest one, however he additionally picked the one that’s going to face out from the rest on the market as a result of there’s nothing prefer it. Seeing somebody choose the arduous one? That was like, ‘Wow.’ This one has one thing that actually stands out about it, and he noticed that straight away.”