Diablo sequence head Rod Fergsson has introduced that he has left Blizzard.
Fergusson, who was beforehand a program supervisor at Microsoft earlier than working at Epic Video games to steer on Gears of Warfare, moved on to Irrational Video games, 2K and Black Tusk Studios, earlier than returning to Microsoft to function studio head of The Coalition and work on Gears of Warfare once more.
Fergusson then left the Coalition after practically 5 years to affix Blizzard and lead the Diablo franchise, however following the sale of Activision Blizzard he discovered himself below the Microsoft umbrella for the third time.
Now Fergusson has taken to social media to verify that he has stepped down from his function as Blizzard senior vice chairman and Diablo basic supervisor, seeking a brand new problem.
“After I joined Blizzard 5 years in the past, I had two foremost targets (apart from getting my sword!): to revitalize one in every of my favourite franchises of all time, and to have a significant affect on the corporate I admired,” he wrote on LinkedIn.
“And it’s with nice satisfaction and gratitude that I can now look again on this era of my profession and say that not solely did I obtain these targets, however having the privilege of main this workforce alongside a few of my favourite individuals on this planet and delivery superb experiences for our gamers helped me to develop – as a frontrunner, and as an individual.
“The Diablo franchise, in its virtually 30 years, has by no means been stronger and extra related than it’s proper now, due to the arduous work of the various passionate and gifted Diablo workforce members over these 5 years.
“From the return of a basic in D2R, to the daring leap into cell with Immortal, to the record-breaking launch of Diablo IV and its first enlargement Vessel of Hatred: every of those video games kind the muse upon which the groups will proceed to construct the franchise’s’ brilliant future.
“I’m extraordinarily grateful for the dignity of taking part in some small half on this extraordinary franchise. And as I put together to depart Blizzard, and Microsoft, I achieve this with full confidence in Diablo’s plans, groups, and management. As for me, keep tuned, particulars on my subsequent journey coming quickly.”
After 5 years of driving the Diablo franchise ahead with 4 large launches, it’s time for me to step away from Blizzard/Microsoft, sword in hand, and see what’s subsequent. The groups are arrange for achievement, with an thrilling slate of releases forward. I’m extremely happy with what… pic.twitter.com/Fsh4gjmgVl
— Rod Fergusson (@RodFergusson) August 8, 2025
In an interview with VGC final yr, Fergusson joked about how destiny seemingly stored bringing him again to Microsoft, describing it as his “third tour”.
“I advised Phil [Spencer]: ‘Look, if you happen to would have simply given me $1 billion straight I’d have come again, you didn’t must spend all $69 billion’,” he joked to us final yr about Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
“No, it’s nice,” he added on the time. “I imply, I really like Microsoft and that was why I used to be there for the primary two excursions of obligation, so it’s an ideal alternative to be a part of Xbox Studios and Microsoft Gaming. I’ve identified Phil for 20 years and identified Aaron Greenberg and Matt Booty for over 10, and so it simply feels very comfy.”
