Big Change at Top of Arrowhead, Studio Head Wants to Be Closer to Helldivers 2 Players. 'I Care More About Weapon Balance Than QBRs'
Surprising changes took place at the highest levels of authority at Arrowhead studio. The company's existing CEO, Johan Pilestedt, will be replaced by former Paradox Interactive business development director Shams Jorjani.
Johan Pilestedt has announced his resignation from his current position as CEO of Arrowhead Game Studios through the X platform. At the same time, the developer revealed that his journey in the company isn't ending - he will now serve as the Chief Creative Officer (CCO). The former director of business development at Paradox Interactive, Shams Jorjani, will take his place.
Big update, I've decided to hire Shams Jorjani as the new CEO of Arrowhead Game Studios! We go way back and I wouldn't trust the business in any other hands than his (...and he comes with an impressive resume and love for games).
But what about me and my involvement in Helldivers 2? Well, I'm glad you asked! I am taking the role of Chief Creative Officer, which means I will spend MORE time with the team and 100% of my focus on the games and community! – we read in the developer's post.
In response to a comment from an internet user, Pilestedt explained that the reason for the decision was that he was more concerned "about weapon balance than QBRs." The developer told GamesIndustry.biz a little more about this topic.
"I've been thinking about the journey ahead for Arrowhead, the future games we're going to be making, and running the organization beyond the 120 or so developers we have currently," he explained. After which he added: "I realized that running an organization of over 100 people to however large it is going to get… it means I will [have to choose] between deepening my love for game creation, or the business track."
Participating in the same conversation, Jorjani announced that he intends to bring to Arrowhead the "organization and leadership" that made Paradox grow into a "giant" during his term.
