Wizards of the Coast has brought in Paul Della Bitta to lead its Digital Ventures games division. This move follows his extensive career at Blizzard, where he spent over ten years. He’ll be reporting directly to John Hight, the company’s president.
Meanwhile, James Ohlen, co-founder of Archetype Entertainment, is stepping back. He’ll still serve as a creative consultant and focus more on tabletop RPGs. Abby Hodes, Hasbro’s VP of corporate communications, mentioned that Ohlen feels the game development is in capable hands and that his input on the project is complete.
Leadership Changes at Wizards of the Coast
Paul Della Bitta comes into this role with a wealth of experience. His background includes stints at Superplay, Molten Games, and Riot Games, alongside co-founding Dreamhaven. The gaming industry is watching closely as he takes on this challenge.
Ohlen’s shift comes at a pivotal time. Since joining Wizards in 2019 after leaving BioWare, he played a crucial role in developing Archetype, which introduced its first project, Exodus, at The Game Awards 2023. The game is launching in early 2027, setting the stage for a significant push into AAA gaming.
Upcoming Projects from Archetype Entertainment
Exodus is touted as a key title for Hasbro’s entry into high-budget games. Chad Robertson, another co-founder, has described it as “the tip of the spear.” It aims to be more than just a video game; it’s designed to expand into various forms of media.
At the same event, Wizards announced the RPG Warlock: Dungeons and Dragons, also set for a 2027 release. Hasbro’s substantial $1 billion investment indicates its commitment to expanding its gaming portfolio.
What’s Next for Hasbro’s Game Strategy?
With major leadership changes and project launches, Wizards of the Coast is solidifying its position in the gaming sector. The company is keen on tapping into the growing demand for AAA titles.
The landscape is changing, and fans will be eager to see how these shifts influence upcoming games.
