Earlier today, it was confirmed that John Smedley stepped down as CEO and president of Daybreak Game Company.
John Smedley is a big figure in the gaming industry, having played a key role in the making of the Everquest franchise. Smedley co-founded Verant Games Inc, which was later purchased by Sony and became Sony Online Entertainment, and recently guided the company through its transition to Daybreak Games.
Popular games such as H1Z1 and Planetside also came to be during his leadership. A Daybreak Games representative issued a statement regarding this change in leadership: “I can confirm that John Smedley will be taking some time off from the company for the near-term and transitioning to a different role to be determined. Upon finalization of his plans, further communication will be provided.”
It appears that Daybreak chief operating officer Russel Shanks, who has been with every incarnation of Daybreak, will be taking over as CEO until further notice.
This story will be updated as more information is available.
This article originally appeared on TheMittani.com, written by Siaka Stevens.
