Emmert takes over Cryptic as CEO moves on
Needham exploring other industry roles
Cryptic Studios CCO Jack Emmert has been appointed chief executive officer of the Atari-owned MMO developer, following the departure of John Needham.
Needham is pursuing unspecified other opportunities with gaming. "It's been a privilege and a pleasure to work with Cryptic these past several years," he stated. "It's with a heavy heart that I now depart this company we've all worked so tirelessly to grow.
"We've done so very much together - two successful MMO launches, The Foundry and a successful free-to-play transition for Champions Online. I'm thankful for my time here and for all that we've accomplished."
Co-founder Emmert will now report directly to Atari CEO Jim Wilson. "As a colleague, I am sad to see John go, but our vision remains clear," claimed Emmert.
"Cryptic continues to develop great gaming experiences while ensuring the success of its current projects, Champions Online: Free for All, Star Trek Online and Neverwinter. We will continue to set high goals for ourselves and under my leadership we will continue to meet them."