Naughty Dog co-president Evan Wells is retiring at the end of the year, leaving Neil Druckmann to totally take the reins of among the PlayStation’s best-known studios.
In a message released on Naughty Dog’s officiate website, Wells spoke about his thirty years profession in video games and applauded Druckmann, stating that he’s “exceptionally positive” that he’s leaving the studio in “the very best hands.”
“This is something that I’ve been talking about with Naughty Dog’s Studio Leadership Team for well over a year, and with Neil for even longer than that,” Wells composed.
“The choice brings with it frustrating and conflicting feelings, however I’ve concerned recognize that I’m content with my time at the studio and all that we’ve achieved together over the last 25 years. I couldn’t be more positive in Neil’s capability to continue running the studio. It’s the correct time for me to offer the chance for him and the others on the Studio Leadership Team to guide the studio into an effective future.”
Druckmann applauded Evan in a tweet, calling his tradition “unequaled.”
“Sad to see my employer, coach, partner, friend leave… however happy for him to take pleasure in a well made retirement! Evan, your unequaled tradition will permanently belong to Naughty Dog!” Druckmann composed.
Sad to see my employer, coach, partner, friend leave… however happy for him to take pleasure in a well made retirement! Evan, your unequaled tradition will permanently belong to Naughty Dog! ❤️ https://t.co/G0jy946NHm
— Neil Druckmann (@Neil_Druckmann) July 11, 2023
Evan Wells has actually been at Naughty Dog because 1998, with credits consisting of Crash Team Racing and Jak and Daxter. Wells ended up being co-president of Naughty Dog following the departure of creators Jason Rubin and Andy Gavin in 2004. Druckmann was promoted to co-president together with wells in 2020.
Wells leaves in the middle of a difficult year for Naughty Dog. While The Last of Us has actually discovered terrific success on tv, the multiplayer variation has actually dealt with problems and hold-ups. The PC port, which introduced back in March, has actually likewise been consulted with combined evaluations.
Nevertheless, Naughty Dog stays among PlayStation’s crown gems as Wells prepares to leave.
“I believe Naughty Dog will reach brand-new heights and continue to raise the bar for the cutting-edge,” Wells composed. “I believe Naughty Dog will reach brand-new heights and continue to raise the bar for the cutting-edge.”
Blogroll image by FilmMagic/FilmMagic for HBO
Kat Bailey is IGN’s News Director in addition to co-host of Nintendo Voice Chat. Have a pointer? Send her a DM at @the_katbot.
