Diablo general manager Rod Fergusson has announced his departure from Blizzard.
Sharing the news on social media, Fergusson said “it’s time for me to step away […] and see what’s next”.
“After five years of driving the Diablo franchise forward with four big launches, it’s time for me to step away from Blizzard/Microsoft, sword in hand, and see what’s next,” he wrote.
“The teams are set up for success, with an exciting slate of releases ahead. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together and looking forward to what comes next for Diablo, and for me.”
Microsoft and Blizzard executives responded to the news, including Blizzard president Johanna Faries and Xbox head Phil Spencer.
“Guiding a franchise like Diablo takes rare talent, vision, and collaboration,” wrote Faries. “Thank you, Rod, for bringing all of those in spades. Sanctuary’s future is brighter because of the impact you’ve had.”
Spencer added: “You brought strength, hellfire, and vision to one of gaming’s most iconic franchises. Playing Diablo 4 with you was a blast – thanks for everything you gave to the game and the community.”
Blizzard also confirmed the news to IGN, but provided no further comment on who will replace Fergusson.
Fergusson joined Blizzard in 2020, shortly after Diablo 4 was announced. He is best known for his work on the Gears of War franchise, having been involved in every title of the series since it started in 2006.
Fergusson was head of The Coalition, a studio founded in 2010 as Zipline Studios. Following Microsoft’s acquisition of the Gears of War franchise in 2014, what was then known as Black Tusk Studios was renamed The Coalition.
When he departed The Coalition to join Blizzard, Xbox’s Matt Booty told GamesIndustry.biz that Fergusson was “someone who has had a tremendous impact on the [Gears of War] franchise”.
“We are really grateful for the craft and his passion, and also what he has done to build that community,” said Booty. “We wish him well as he moves on.”