Cambridge, UK – Jan. 27, 2017 – Jagex Games Studio, the developer and publisher of the iconic Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Game (MMORPG) RuneScape, today named Phil Mansell as its Chief Operating Officer and acting Chief Executive Officer. Previously Vice President, Studios at Jagex, Phil takes the role following the departure of outgoing CEO Rod Cousens.
An 18-year veteran of the games industry, Phil has served over five years with Jagex. As VP Studios, Phil helmed Jagex’s RuneScape portfolio and oversaw a resurgence in player growth for both RuneScape and Old School RuneScape in recent years, delivering record financial performances for the company.
“Driven by a passion for creativity, our teams are focussed on what really matters for the core business – supporting our live titles and their huge communities and leading the creation of new games for multiple devices,” said Phil Mansell, COO, Jagex. “Off the back of record financial performance, Jagex is in an incredibly fortunate and positive position. We have become stronger with every year that passes and now that we are united with our parent company, ZhongJi Holding, it is both an honour and a privilege to be take Jagex to its next stage.”
Phil’s appointment comes as Jagex prepares to expand the RuneScape universe, both within the MMORPGs themselves and by taking the IP to additional titles. The arrival of RuneScape Expansions this year will mark one of the biggest changes to the way RuneScape will evolve. RuneScape Expansions will reveal new and substantial parts of the world map with a gameplay emphasis on discovery and exploration. The first RuneScape Expansion – The Golden City of Menaphos – is set to launch this summer.
Old School RuneScape, the authentically retro PvP edition of the MMO, is also experiencing accelerated user growth through its player-driven content development and impact in the eSports sector. With a unique long-form approach to competitive gaming events, Old School‘s Deadman Tournament consistently delivers a high-profile audience, making it the most eSport-centric MMORPG. As Jagex continues to build RuneScape‘s share of the PC market, new games for additional platforms will strengthen the IP further.
Related: RUNESCAPE Launches Premier Club Featuring Bumper Membership Offers & Subscription Discount
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