Rod Fergusson leaves Blizzard: Diablo and Gears of War boss says goodbye

When Rod Fergusson announced his departure from Blizzard Entertainment on August 8, the gaming community learned that they were saying goodbye to a key figure in two iconic franchises: Gears of War and Diablo . It wasn't the first time Fergusson had left Xbox, but his departure left a question in the air: where does one of the most influential creatives in the video game industry go next?

Before joining Blizzard, Fergusson already had an impressive track record. His work at Epic Games and later The Coalition was instrumental in shaping the Gears of War series, a title that not only defined the Xbox catalog but also left its mark on the third-person shooter genre. His strategic and narrative vision helped cement the franchise as one of the most beloved among fans.

In 2020, Fergusson took a new direction and became general manager of the Diablo franchise at Blizzard Entertainment, at a time of great excitement about the series' future. During his tenure, he oversaw four major releases, including the highly anticipated Diablo IV , which became one of the most successful titles in Blizzard's recent history.

In his farewell message, Fergusson highlighted:

“After five years of driving the Diablo franchise forward with four major releases, it’s time to leave Blizzard/Microsoft with my sword in hand and see what’s next. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve created together and look forward to seeing what the future holds for Diablo and me.”

Fergusson's departure comes at a strategic time. Since Microsoft acquired Activision Blizzard in 2023, the company has undergone an internal reorganization, relocating teams and adjusting projects. Although Blizzard hasn't revealed a replacement for Fergusson, his legacy in the Diablo series is undeniable.

The future of the franchise remains bright, with a release schedule that, according to Fergusson himself, will excite fans. However, his departure leaves the community waiting to see what direction he'll take and what role he'll play in his next professional adventure.

The executive hasn't revealed his next destination, but the video game industry knows that his experience and leadership make him a valuable asset to any studio. Whether returning to a well-known series or spearheading a new IP, Fergusson has the talent and track record to make another historic mark.