AGBO, the artist-led unbiased studio began by the Russo brothers of Avengers fame, has appointed sport veteran Pete Wanat as president of interactive expertise.
Los Angeles-based AGBO is the manufacturing studio established by the Anthony and Joe Russo and their producing associate Mike Larocca in 2017 to innovate and advance the subsequent era of storytelling. The agency has drawn quite a lot of consideration and traders, with Nexon investing $400 million within the agency in 2022.
“AGBO is at the forefront of empowering artists to innovate by incorporating their original IP into new forms of interactive entertainment,” stated Wanat, in an announcement. “I look forward to leveraging my deep passion and experience in gaming to support the in-house teams, expand the studio’s capabilities, and build upon AGBO’s culture of innovation and collaboration.”
Wanat is a dynamic sport manufacturing govt with over 25 years of expertise within the online game trade. Recognized for his skill to develop critically acclaimed video games, he has labored with a number of the world’s most iconic mental properties throughout movie, tv, and sports activities. His portfolio consists of main franchises equivalent to Jurassic World, Quick & Livid, Aliens, LEGO, South Park, and Despicable Me, together with quite a few video games with the NFL, NBA, and MLB.
Earlier than becoming a member of AGBO, Wanat served as chief artistic officer at Nifty Video games and beforehand held the function of vice chairman of video games for Common Photos Digital Platforms Group. His profession has been outlined byclose artistic partnerships with main filmmakers together with Chris Meledandri, Gore Verbinski, andChristopher Nolan to carry beloved cinematic worlds to life by means of interactive leisure.
Pete Wanat is president of interactive expertise at AGBO.
In addition to the Russo brothers, different outstanding leaders at AGBO embrace Donald Mustard, former Epic Video games govt and a frontrunner on Fortnite, and Chris Brearton, former head of MGM Studios.
“AGBO’s masterful approach to storytelling and commitment to rich world-building uniquely positions us to create revolutionary new interactive entertainment,” stated Mustard in an announcement. “Pete’s unparalleled expertise and deep understanding of game development and interactive platforms will allow us to seamlessly integrate our characters and stories into new, unforgettable projects. With his leadership, we can create expansive universes that extend across film, television, and gaming—offering audiences deeper ways to engage with our stories.”
As head of interactive expertise, Wanat will spearhead the studio’s gaming technique and propel its dedication to immersive digital experiences to new heights. He’ll report back to AGBO’s chief artistic officer, Angela Russo-Otstot.
“Today’s announcement reflects AGBO’s commitment to pioneering the future of storytelling,” saidRusso-Otstot at AGBO, in an announcement. “Pete is a visionary in the gaming industry, and we are thrilled to welcome him as a key member of our team. His expertise will enhance our ability to leverage AGBO’s unified asset pipeline, empowering us to create seamless narratives and experiences that bridge both linear and interactive mediums.”
AGBO additionally just lately added Dominic Hughes as its chief scientific officer. Hughes is a visiting scholar inthe Logic Group on the College of California-Berkeley and most just lately spearheaded quite a few AIinitiatives at Apple.
Amongst Wanat’s tasks are Scarface: The World is Yours, Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay, Ghostbusters: The Video Sport, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, Jurassic Park, The Factor, and NBA Jam.
Amid the continued evolution and development of the digital world, the growth of AGBO’s in-house interactive staff additional positions the studio for fulfillment because the premier vacation spot for artist-led international storytelling throughout numerous codecs.
AGBO’s founders have delivered 14 international No. 1 openings and over $7 billion in field workplace, together with Avengers: Endgame, Marvel’s highest-grossing movie. All the pieces In all places All at As soon as gained seven Academy Awards, together with Finest Image, whereas The Grey Man and Extraction rank amongst Netflix’s greatest hits. AGBO’s Citadel universe has expanded globally, with Citadel: Diana and Citadel: Honey Bunny turning into prime Prime Video originals.
AGBO just lately wrapped The Bluff for Amazon MGM, and Citadel Season 2 is at present in post-production. AGBO can also be producing Avengers: Doomsday (2026) and Avengers: Secret Wars (2027) with Marvel, with the Russo Brothers set to direct.
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