Xbox's Major Nelson is leaving Microsoft
After 20 years at Microsoft, Xbox personality Larry Hryb, aka Major Nelson, is leaving the company. Hryb broke the news on Twitter, thanking the millions of gamers who have included him in their lives over the years.
“After 20 years at Microsoft, I have decided to leave the company,” Hryb says. “It’s been a wild ride and I have enjoyed every moment of it. I have met and worked with so many of you for so long, and I appreciate that you have included me in your lives. It means the world to me.”
Hryb joined Microsoft in 2001. After years as a general manager of Xbox Live, he joined the team in 2011 as director of programming for the Xbox Live platform. He quickly became a household name for Xbox owners through his work on the Major Nelson Radio podcast, which he hosted until 2016.
Over the years, Hryb held various roles within the Xbox program, including senior director of corporate communications, a position he held until this week. While he wasn’t as high profile as Xbox boss Phil Spencer, Hryb was a highly influential voice for Xbox gamers, especially during the 360 era.
The news of his departure was acknowledged by Microsoft’s chief gaming rival, highlighting the impact a single Xbox personality can have on the broader gaming community.
Before officially leaving, Hryb says he’ll take some time to spend with his family and enjoy the Seattle summer. He didn’t reveal many details about his future plans, but did mention that he’s working on a few projects.
The official Xbox Podcast, previously hosted by Hryb, will also go on hiatus over the summer, and it’s unclear when it will return in its previous format.
Hryb’s departure marks the end of an era for Xbox and leaves behind a legacy of community engagement and passion for gaming. Not only did he help Microsoft’s console become the coolest gaming platform on the planet, he also transcended the Xbox brand and became a symbol of the passion and enthusiasm that gamers have for their favourite consoles.
With the ever-changing nature of the gaming industry in mind, Hryb’s departure raises questions about the future direction of Xbox and how it will continue to engage with its community. But no matter what, Xbox gamers from all platforms, including Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo, PC, and mobile, will cherish their interactions with Major Nelson, because we’ve all been part of his community. And, who knows, maybe we’ll see him again soon.
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Original Story: After 20 years at Microsoft, Larry Hryb, aka Major Nelson, is leaving the company
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