In 2018, Microsoft started a major expansion for its gaming ambitions. Not only did the company buy stellar studios like inXile Entertainment, Ninja Theory, Obsidian Entertainment, and Playground Games, but it also hired a lot of industry veterans to help with new franchises and roles. While we all know about The Initiative and how its accumulating some of the most talented people in the industry, we haven't heard much about additions to the top positions in the Xbox Team.
Last month, Nintendo's Damon Baker surprised everyone by announcing that he was leaving the company after twelve years. According to Nintendo Life, "Baker started out at Nintendo as the global manager of brand licensing in 2006 and transferred across to the role of head of third-party marketing and communications after three years. He began his current position as head of partner management in 2016." He has since been more involved with indie games and is seen as one of the reasons why the Nintendo Switch has amazing indie support.
Hey all, overdue news to share. Been soaking up knowledge this last month as the new Head of Portfolio for #Xbox! Honored and excited to help evaluate all 2nd/3rd party content towards our strategy. Big thanks to @iocat @aarongreenberg @XboxP3 and team. The future looks amazing! pic.twitter.com/isqylqnBGkHey all, overdue news to share. Been soaking up knowledge this last month as the new Head of Portfolio for #Xbox! Honored and excited to help evaluate all 2nd/3rd party content towards our strategy. Big thanks to @iocat @aarongreenberg @XboxP3 and team. The future looks amazing! pic.twitter.com/isqylqnBGk— Damon Baker (@DWBakes) January 28, 2019January 28, 2019
Today, Baker announced that he was joining Microsoft has the Head of Portfolio for Xbox. This means that he will help evaluate all second and third-party content going forward. Baker is an excellent hire for the company because it needs seasoned individuals who have great relationships with developers and a deep understanding of the type of content gamers want.
We can't wait to see what sorts of changes and experiences Baker brings to the Xbox Team in 2019 and beyond. All I can say is that it's definitely an exciting time to be an Xbox owner right now.
