Raven Software Co Founder Brian Raffel Retires After 36 Years Of Game Development History And Leadership Transition To David Pellas
The departure of Brian Raffel signals the end of a productive period at Raven Software. The retirement of Brian Raffel marks the end of a significant period which defined North American video game development. After 36 years of service to the studio he co founded in 1990 Raffel plans to retire. The Madison based company which began as a creative independent team has transformed into a crucial component of the worldwide Call of Duty franchise with his departure. Raven Software announced the news today to acknowledge the substantial heritage which one of its founding members established.
The journey began when Brian and his brother Steve Raffel launched their first project titled Black Crypt. The studio developed into a well known brand that produced outstanding action games while creating cutting edge gameplay environments for the next 30 years. Brian Raffel contributed to the development of the popular video games Hexen and Star Wars Jedi Knight Jedi Academy. His creative work on X Men Legends and Singularity established him as an important figure within the gaming industry. As the studio became part of the Call of Duty franchise base during his final work period Raffel guided the studio through its new identity which included his recent Black Ops 7 project.
The digital software products that Raffel developed contributed to his work which established Madison Wisconsin as an important hub for video game development. The local community and the University of Wisconsin received his support which created opportunities for many artists and designers to join the profession. The regional expansion reached such exceptional levels that it attracted major companies from the industry including Respawn Entertainment to the area. Through all the company expansions Raffel remained a dedicated leader who helped develop his hometown into a permanent center for game developers.
David Pellas will lead the studio following Brian Raffels retirement from the company. Pellas is an industry veteran who previously held design leadership roles on notable titles such as The Conduit. The organization now undergoes its first complete ownership transition since Steve Raffel departed from the company in 2017. The studios culture which the Raffel brothers established during their 40 year career will continue to exist even after original founders have left the team.
