Warcraft general manager John Hight has announced his departure from Blizzard Entertainment after 12 years of service. In a recent statement on his personal account, Hight expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Warcraft universe and stated that he is embarking on a new journey.

During his tenure at Blizzard, Hight played a significant role in shaping the Warcraft franchise, particularly World of Warcraft. With a background in the gaming industry that spans decades, Hight brought valuable experience from his previous positions at Sony, Atari, and Electronic Arts.

One of Hight’s key legacies at Blizzard is the people he inspired and nurtured within the company. In an interview last fall, he emphasized the importance of empowering individuals and fostering their potential. Hight recalled moments where he recognized talent and provided opportunities for developers to showcase their creativity.

Notable among these instances was his encounter with Xinghan ‘Jenova’ Chen during Chen’s time as a graduate student. Recognizing Chen’s innovative approach to game development, Hight supported him in creating unique gaming experiences. Chen, along with Kellee Santiago, went on to establish Thatgamecompany and release acclaimed titles such as Flow, Flower, and Journey under Hight’s guidance.

Hight’s departure marks a significant transition for the Warcraft community and Blizzard Entertainment. His contributions to the gaming industry and his commitment to nurturing talent have left a lasting impact on those he worked with. As Hight embarks on his ‘new quest,’ the gaming community eagerly anticipates the next chapter in his career and the continued success of the Warcraft franchise.