Video Gamer is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Prices subject to change. Learn more
Helldivers 2 is the smash hit release of 2024, seemingly coming out of nowhere to become one of the most talked about games, making an impact in the gaming industry that hasn’t been seen since Fortnite back in 2018/2019. Despite this, Helldivers 2 has faced some rocky moments over the past few weeks, with many questioning what the future holds for the game, but it looks like the future could be about to get much brighter as Arrowhead Game Studios has appointed a new CEO, but that doesn’t mean that the former-CEO Johan Pilestedt is leaving the company.
In a post on X, Johan Pilestedt, the owner of Arrowhead Game Studios, announced that he has hired a new CEO to run the company, but that doesn’t mean he is leaving the company.
“Big update, I’ve decided to hire @ShamsJorjani as the new CEO of @ArrowheadGS! 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 @Helldivers2? 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!”
Going forward, Pilestedt will be the Chief Creative Officer and Chairman of Arrowhead Game Studios, as well as remaining the Creative Director of Helldivers 2. This will allow him to focus his efforts on the creative aspect of the game, rather than having to deal with the running of the company, which can only be a good thing.
In an interview with GamesIndustry.biz, Pilestedt explained his decision to step away from the business side of Arrowhead Game Studios, despite leading the company as it released one of the best-selling games of 2024.
“I’ve been thinking about the journey ahead for Arrowhead, the future games we’re going to be making, and running the organisation beyond the 120 or so developers we have currently. I realised that running an organisation 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. Over the last year going to launch of Helldivers 2, I’ve been pulled more towards the business side of things, and not able to focus as much on the creative side. That made me realise I needed to make some decisions, both for the success of the business but also myself.”
Since its release in February 2024, Helldivers 2 has gone on the become Sony’s biggest launch ever, beating out God of War Ragnarok by selling 12 million copies in its first three months. The game has become a smash hit and thrust Arrowhead Game Studios into the spotlight. Although the game has seen a dip in popularity due to the PSN controversy and recent weapon nerfs, with Pilestedt focusing all of his efforts on Helldivers 2, I am confident that the developers will claw things back as the game and story continue to develop.
