As president of Sony Online Entertainment, John Smedley oversees Sony’s online game business. He’s been company president for a decade, overseeing development of the likes of Planetside, DCUniverse Online and Free Realms. He’s a senior executive at one of the biggest online gaming companies in the world. And he actually plays games – not just the ones he makes, but other people’s, too.
Planetside 2’s future is uncertain as the IP was sold for a relatively low sum to a company with no history.
Was such a cool concept back in the day - shame that it never really took off like it probably could have with more support
The last Live Letter is done and we were all surprised at the announcement of a delay to the release of FFXIV's Endwalker expansion, we got some more details about the MMORPG's new PvP Crystal Conflict mode, and some system details. Then we talk about PlanetSide 2's new continent and LOTRO's new expansion before wrapping up with some good changes for Ubisoft and Blizzard... but are they enough? All that and more on this week's Always Online!
PlanetSide 2 is going to be getting its next major expansion this December. This new addition, titled “Expedition: Oshur” will be the first addition in almost seven years to bring an entirely new continent to the game.
"My son is a delinquent because of video games!"
Parents need to start playing video games and understand it's just a game, if their child is in the wrong they should be looking at their own parenting skills.
I have heard awesome things about Planetside 2. This is also great PR. I mean I am definitely glad this guy is in charge the game instead of some guy in a suit. I can trust that Smedley can keep up with modern business models. I can imagine if some guy in suit was in charge of SOE, Planetside 2 would be heavily subscription based.
Well, I dunno. A drug dealer never uses their own product. That's a stupid analogy, but maybe a lot can be said for keeping work and pleasure separate.
Why does Mika always say something really stupid?
I really dont like this attitude. Its the same for people who try to get into working in games have to be people who spend their time making games on the side. Few other industries are as anal about it as games. It keeps a lot of intelligent people out of the industry. Having people from outside the industry involved in game making can also bring different ideas/views/innovations. The gaming industry is very secular and the barrier to entries are really high. He says he plays all these games, well either he barely plays them, or he is incredibly reckless with his work time.