Neil Druckmann Alone at the Top as Naughty Dog Co-President Retires After 25 Years

Naughty Dog co-president Evan Wells steps down At the end of the year, Neil Druckmann took over full control of one of PlayStation’s most famous studios.

In a message posted on Naughty Dog’s official website, Wells spoke of his 30-year career in gaming, praised Druckmann, and said he was “unbelievable” to leave the studio in “best hands.” I am so confident,” he said.

“This is something I’ve been discussing with Naughty Dog’s studio leadership team for over a year, and with Neil for even longer,” Wells wrote.

“This decision was accompanied by overwhelming and conflicting emotions, but I realized that I was happy with my time in the studio and all that we had accomplished together over the past 25 years. “I am concerned about Neil’s ability to continue to run the studio. To me, this is the perfect opportunity to provide him and the rest of the studio leadership team with the opportunity to lead the studio into a successful future.” It’s time.”

In a tweet, Druckmann praised Evan’s accomplishment as “unparalleled.”

“I am saddened to see my boss, mentor, partner, and friend leave…but glad he is enjoying a fulfilling retirement! Evan, your unparalleled legacy A part of Naughty Dog forever!” Druckmann wrote.

Sad to see my boss, mentor, partner and friend retire…but happy he is enjoying a fulfilling retirement! Evan, your unparalleled legacy will live forever Part of Naughty Dog! ❤️ https://t.co/G0jy946NHm

— Neil Druckmann (@Neil_Druckmann) July 11, 2023

Evan Wells has been with Naughty Dog since 1998, with credits including Crash Team Racing and Jack & Daxter. Wells became co-president of Naughty Dog after founders Jason Rubin and Andy Gavin left the company in 2004. Druckmann was promoted to co-president alongside Wells in 2020.

Wells left in the middle of a difficult year for Naughty Dog. The Last of Us was a huge success on TV, but the multiplayer version has faced setbacks and delays. His PC port, which launched in March, received mixed reviews as well.

Nonetheless, Naughty Dog remains one of PlayStation’s crown jewels, even as Mr. Wells prepares to retire.

“I have no doubt that Naughty Dog will reach new heights and continue to raise the bar on the cutting edge,” Wells wrote. “I have no doubt that Naughty Dog will reach new heights and continue to raise the bar on the cutting edge.”

Blogroll photography by FilmMagic/FilmMagic for HBO

Kat Bailey is IGN’s Director of News and co-host of Nintendo Voice Chat. Any tips? Send her a DM at @the_katbot.