Sponsored By

Amazon's next CEO Andy Jassy has expressed support for the company's video game business, which has faced a number of challenges of late.

Chris Kerr, News Editor

February 4, 2021

1 Min Read

Amazon's next CEO Andy Jassy has expressed support for the company's video game business, which has faced a number of challenges of late. 

Jassy will replace Jeff Bezos when the current chief exec steps down later this year, and according to an internal email obtained by Bloomberg has vowed to help Amazon Game Studios realize its unfulfilled potential. 

"Some businesses take off in the first year, and others take many years. Though we haven’t consistently succeeded yet in Amazon Game Studios, I believe we will if we hang in there," wrote Jassy. 

"Being successful right away is obviously less stressful, but when it takes longer, it’s often sweeter. I believe this team will get there if we stay focused on what matters most."

Jassy was reportedly responding to an email sent by Amazon exec and studio VP Mike Frazzini, who themselves came under fire recently for allegedly mismanaging projects and development staff.

According to a report published by Bloomberg, Amazon Game Studios has struggled to find its feet after being dragged into the mire by a leadership team that frequently pulls the rug out from under its developers. 

The piece claims that senior figures misprioritized project goals based on competitor decisions, allowed sexist and racist behavior to take root in the workplace, and dismissed feedback from expert talent. 

The full story at Bloomberg, based on conversations with over 30 Amazon Game Studios developers, is worth reading to get a sense of the bigger picture and the challenge facing Jassy.

About the Author(s)

Chris Kerr

News Editor, GameDeveloper.com

Game Developer news editor Chris Kerr is an award-winning journalist and reporter with over a decade of experience in the game industry. His byline has appeared in notable print and digital publications including Edge, Stuff, Wireframe, International Business Times, and PocketGamer.biz. Throughout his career, Chris has covered major industry events including GDC, PAX Australia, Gamescom, Paris Games Week, and Develop Brighton. He has featured on the judging panel at The Develop Star Awards on multiple occasions and appeared on BBC Radio 5 Live to discuss breaking news.

Daily news, dev blogs, and stories from Game Developer straight to your inbox

You May Also Like