On Friday, World of Warcraft lead game designer Russ Petersen (nicknamed Nite Moogle online) announced that he had left Blizzard. Russ has been with Blizzard for ten years.
On social media, Petersen said: “I hope to bring some fun to the players of World of Warcraft. Thank you everyone for allowing me to participate in this almost unreal journey.” Petersen did not explain the reason for his departure. There is no introduction to his next move.
Petersen has a big role in the modern development of the World of Warcraft. He’s been in charge of designing World of Warcraft’s reward system since Legion, and most of the work happens behind the scenes.
Blizzard isn’t the first company Petersen has worked for, having previously designed the online game Wild Planet at Carbine Studios. Judging from his professional experience, he should join an online game company to continue working.
From Blizzard’s perspective, Petersen’s departure is a pity. Several star developers have left their jobs since the company became involved in the controversy.