Epic Games Chief Creative Officer Donald Mustard, one of the key architects behind Fortnite’s huge success, is retiring this month.
Mustard announced the news today on social media platform [Epic Games CEO] @timsweeney and the Epic Games family. ’ You can read his full statement below.
After an incredible journey, I’m stepping down from my role as Epic’s Chief Creative Officer this month.
I’ve been in the games industry for almost 25 years and have enjoyed working with some of the most talented people ever. And I’m so proud of what we’ve created together. from… pic.twitter.com/9KJT9Jg2jr
— Donald Mustard (@DonaldMustard) September 8, 2023
In 2005, Mr. Mustard founded Salt Lake City-based Studio Chair Entertainment and released his first game, Undertow, in 2007 for the Xbox 360 live arcade service.
Chair was acquired by Epic Games in 2008, where Mustard would go on to oversee the popular 2009 Metroidvania Shadow Complex (today’s news may be a little depressing for those who haven’t yet). Looking forward to the sequel). Chair also developed his mobile-based Infinity Blade trilogy for his Epic.
But it’s hard to overstate the influence Mustard has had on Fortnite in overseeing its ambitious story after becoming Epic’s chief creative officer in 2016. Under Mustard, Fortnite became a pop culture behemoth, finding ways to weave in characters like Star Wars, Marvel, Street Fighter, God of War, John Wick, many more.
Mustard also served as the face of that story, becoming well-known to fans for frequently teasing what was to come. He has also made occasional appearances in big movies, including cameo appearances in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, The Matrix: His Resurrection, and Avengers: Endgame.
In today’s statement, Mustard said, “I can’t wait to share the future of Fortnite with all of you as players,” adding that the current team is working on some “huge, amazing, amazing things.” added that it is working on
Thumbnail credit: Kevin Winter/Getty Images
Alex Steadman is IGN’s senior news editor and oversees entertainment coverage. When she’s not writing or editing, she can be found reading fantasy novels and playing Dungeons & Dragons.