MMO developer Cryptic Studio announced that its COO Jack Emmert will now serve as CEO, as former chief executive John Needham leaves the developer to "pursue other opportunities" in the game industry. Needham's departure appears to have been an amicable one, as Cryptic makes a point to say he "served [the company] admirably and will be missed". The ex-CEO joined Cryptic in 2008, helping launch two MMOs and transform Champions Online to a free-to-play title. Emmert co-founded San Jose-based Cryptic in 2000 and served as chief operating officer prior to his promotion. The developer says he has already begun fulfilling his new duties as CEO, and is reporting directly to Jim Wilson, CEO of Cryptic's parent company Atari. "As a colleague, I am sad to see John go, but our vision remains clear," says Emmert. "Cryptic continues to develop great gaming experiences while ensuring the success of its current projects, Champions Online: Free for All, Star Trek Online and Neverwinter." He adds, "I co-founded this company and am extremely proud of everything our teams have achieved. We will continue to set high goals for ourselves and under my leadership we will continue to meet them."