Ready for some enchanting news from the world of Disney games? The magical empire of Disney has recently bolstered its games leadership team with industry stalwarts from Blizzard and Ubisoft, bringing in a wave of expertise and innovation. Former Blizzard Executive Ray Gresko and Ubisoft veteran Bjorn Tornqvist are among the latest additions. Courtesy of video game journalist Tom Ivan, let’s delve into these exciting developments!
Ray Gresko, who previously served as Chief Development Officer at Blizzard, steps into the role of Senior Vice President of Product and Development at Disney Games. With a background that includes the co-development of mega-hits like Overwatch and Diablo 3, and foundational work on Hearthstone, Gresko’s pedigree is pristine. What makes this even more thrilling is that Gresko will collaborate closely with the Epic Games team on Disney’s new universe linked with Fortnite. This new universe aims to create a seamless experience allowing users to “play, watch, shop and engage” with content from fan-favorite franchises such as Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and Avatar.)
Bjorn Tornqvist, another industry heavyweight from Ubisoft, joins Disney Games as Vice President of Technology. Tornqvist’s lengthy tenure included key technical leadership roles and innovations on monumental projects like Ubisoft’s Scalar technology and the seamless multiplayer interactions in The Division. He even pioneered streaming and multiplayer functionalities in Just Dance Now, showcasing his versatile creativity and technical prowess.)
On the home front, the veteran Disney Games executive Jay Ong steps up to lead the global games licensing business across all Disney franchises after nearly a decade with Marvel Games. His former role is filled by Haluk Mentes, ensuring that Disney’s gaming legacy continues to blossom under experienced hands. All these leaders will report directly to Sean Shoptaw, who has been promoted to Executive Vice President, promising visionary guidance for the future.)
According to Disney Consumer Products President Tasia Filippatos, these leadership changes are set to position Disney’s games sector to deliver unparalleled storytelling experiences. With the company recently investing $1.5 billion in Epic Games to acquire an equity stake in the Fortnite creator, Disney continues to make strategic moves that enthrall fans and gamers alike.)
What are your thoughts on these exciting Disney moves? How do you think these leadership changes will shape the future of Disney games? Jump into the conversation and share your magic in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this story with fellow Disney and gaming enthusiasts.)
(*Sources: Tom Ivan, Video Games Chronicle [Video Games Chronicle](https://www.videogameschronicle.com/).)
