Brian Raffel, who co-founded Raven Software with his brother Steve in 1990 and has led the studio since, resigned from leadership this week. Former design director, co-studio head and 12-year Raven Software employee David Pellas will take on the role of Studio Head in Brian’s place.
Raven Software announced the details of Raffel’s retirement in a press release. The studio celebrated his long career with an infographic detailing his many achievements and endeavors during his 36 years with the studio, dating back to the release of Black Crypt in 1992.
After more than 36 years at the helm of Raven Software, Brian Raffel has decided to take a well-deserved retirement.
In 1990, inspired by a shared love of storytelling, Brian and his brother Steve started building something for themselves. What started as a small creative pursuit known as Black Crypt grew into something much bigger. Over the years, his leadership has guided our studio through a wild and changing industry and shaped it into what it is today.
From dark, alien realms to places that reach far across galaxies, Brian has crafted stories that have left a lasting mark on players around the world. His work includes titles such as Hexen, Star Wars Jedi Knight: Jedi Academy, X-Men Legends, Wolfenstein and many more, each adding to a legacy of iconic experiences. Those first decades of performance earned Raven a place among the greats and the confidence to shape and evolve Call of Duty over the years.
In addition to great games, Brian’s legacy is also reflected in the way he has invested in the people and places around him. His dedication to building games from Madison, Wisconsin, has grown his hometown into a strong hub for game developers and studios. Under his watch, Raven’s doors have remained open to the next generation of developers, giving us a first-hand look at what’s possible. As a proud alumnus, his connection to the University of Wisconsin has benefited students pursuing careers in art, design and technology. Through it all, Brian has remained loyal, humble and true to himself.
Brian, thank you for the stories, for the path you have blazed and for the lives you have changed along the way. The impact you have had is timeless and we wish you all the best in this next chapter.
With Brian Raffel leaving Raven Software this week and Steve having previously retired, the Raffels have concluded their time at the studio they founded so many decades ago. However, Raven Software assures fans that it is in good hands now that David Pellas is taking the reins. Stay tuned to the Raven Software topic for more updates and news.
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