Arrowhead CEO becomes its chief creative officer, former Paradox exec steps into role
Johan Pilestedt, the founder and former CEO of Helldivers 2 developer Arrowhead Game Studios, has stepped down from the role to become its chief creative officer and president. Former Paradox Interactive executive Shams Jorjani will now take over the position.
The details:
Pilestedt announced the change on X, explaining that his new role will allow him to "spend MORE time with the team and 100% of my focus on the games and community." Speaking with GamesIndustry.biz, the president explained that as Arrowhead grew to over 100 employees, he was forced to choose between the business and creative sides, resulting in him handing over the role.
Jorjani was previously the chief business development officer at Paradox Interactive, the Swedish publisher of popular franchises such as Cities: Skylines and Hearts of Iron. Aside from his 12-year tenure at Paradox, he has also served as chairman of indie publisher Hooded Horse and an advisor to several gaming companies.
Helldivers 2 has become a massive multiplayer hit since its release earlier this year, with over 12 million copies sold in its first three months. Despite Sony's failed attempt to impose PlayStation Network account requirements, it has maintained a devoted fan base focused on liberating areas of the game's universe.
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