Neon Machine, the studio behind the blockchain-based first-person shooter Shrapnel, has announced a major leadership change ahead of the game’s planned free-to-play launch in 2025.Ken Rosman, known for his experience with Xbox titles, has been appointed as the new CEO. Meanwhile, co-founder and outgoing CEO Mark Long will transition into an advisory role to provide continued support during this critical phase of development.In addition to the CEO appointment, the company is preparing for a new round of fundraising and navigating ongoing legal disputes, signaling a crucial period in its development. Source: ShrapnelWhy is Neon Machine appointing a new CEO?The studio says the leadership changes reflect the need for a focused approach to finalizing the game, ensuring it meets expectations for its full release. Rosman, known for his work on games like Halo Wars and Sunset Overdrive, will be tasked with overseeing operations as Shrapnel moves from early access to its planned global rollout.“Now that we are getting close to launching Shrapnel, it’s time for new leadership,” said Mark Long, Co-founder and former CEO at Neon Machine.With over 30 years of industry experience, Rosman is credited with successfully leading projects for major titles during his tenure at Microsoft’s Xbox division. His leadership will focus on operational execution and live-service management, elements critical to Shrapnel’s launch and ongoing support.The company also announced additional leadership roles with Dave Johnson to lead the Shrapnel project whilst CTO Don Norbury will shift his focus to the studio’s Moonshot platform. Source: ShrapnelAdditional Funding and Ongoing Legal DisputeAlongside the leadership changes, Neon Machine is raising additional funding to support its operations and future goals.The funding round is being led by the Avalanche Ecosystem Fund, with participation from existing investors Griffin Gaming Partners and Polychain Capital. Details of the round will be disclosed in early 2025, following a previous raise of $20 million in October 2023.The studio is also involved in an ongoing legal dispute with former shareholder Cort Javarone, CEO of 4D Factory. In late 2023, Neon Machine accused Javarone of attempting to take control of the company, whilst Javarone countered that the studio’s leadership acted without board approval.Whilst Neon Machine did not share further details on the matter, they anticipate an update in early 2025.
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