Wildstar developer Carbine Studios is due to undergo some changes in hierarchy as President Jeremy Gaffney steps down.
In his resignation letter on the Wildstar forums, which was posted earlier this week, Gaffney explained the resignation was so that he could focusing on his family. Though he admitted to thinking that the reason is “most often, in my opinion, a horseshit excuse you hear from executive types (usually departing with a forcible shove)”, he went on to explain his reasons in greater detail. “Through 2013, my wife and I lost six members of our families to various reasons – mostly cancer. I myself was diagnosed at the end of last year with a fatal-if-untreated form of skin cancer.”
Gaffney went on to explain that he let the cancer go undiagnosed for nine months, but luckily the removal surgery was successful and he is now cancer-free. He pleaded with players, encouraging them to get unusual moles or markings checked out at a doctor.
He also explains that he feels stepping down will be better for the MMO to progress as well, writing: “When you lead a team this size in a company this size, there are a variety of strong opinions on every major decision. It’s been a pleasure helping steer us through to launch, but I think having one less strong opinion in the mix can be a good thing too. Even if I’m always right, of course.”
Although he won’t be acting President anymore, Gaffney will be remaining with the company as a consultant, although he may work elsewhere in the industry in time.
Heather and Dale reviewed Wildstar back in July, awarding it 9/10 and declaring it one of their favorite games of the year so far. The pair thought it was “one of the most polished, playable and enjoyable MMOs we have ever played” and is worth the time of anyone with an interest in the MMO genre (and even if you don’t, we highly recommend you give it a go).
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