2K Games has announced that its subsidiary studio, Firaxis Games, has undergone a leadership change. The studio’s Chief Operating Officer, Heather Hazen, will now act as Studio Head to manage the development teams and lead the studio’s mission statement.
Hazen joined Firaxis Games in 2020 as the studio’s Chief Operating Officer. Before Firaxis Games, she was an Executive Producer on Fortnite at Epic Games and Plants vs Zombies and Bejeweled while at PopCap Games.
The experienced executive has over 22 years of experience in gaming and entertainment. Hazen’s promotion comes as longtime Firaxis Studio Head, Steve Martin, will leave the studio after more than 25 years with the organization.
David Ismailer, President of 2K, commented:
“We are excited to welcome Heather Hazen as the new Studio Head of Firaxis Games, and believe she will continue to drive the success Firaxis has consistently delivered as part of 2 K’s independent studio model.
“2K and Firaxis Games are deeply grateful for the foundation that Steve Martin set during his time at the studio, shepherding more than 30 game launches across three genre-defining franchises and for ensuring a smooth transition for Heather into her new role. Firaxis is one of our company and industry’s most renowned studios, and we are confident that the team will continue to do great things under her leadership.”
The newly appointed Studio Head, Heather Hazen, added:
“I’m thrilled to have this opportunity to carry on the studio’s storied legacy, beginning with the announcement that Firaxis is in development on the next iteration of the legendary Civilization franchise.
“I’m lucky to be working with some of the best developers in our industry, and we have plans to take the Civilization franchise to exciting new heights for our millions of players around the world. In addition, we will continue to support Marvel’s Midnight Suns with post-launch content and explore new creative projects for our teams.”
Firaxis Games has developed some of the game industry’s influential and award-winning titles, including the Sid Meier’s Civilization and XCOM franchises, along with Marvel’s Midnight Suns. The studio is currently working on the next major game in the Sid Meier’s Civilization franchise.
