To revist this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories.To revist this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories.Megan FarokhmaneshPeter Hines, one of the leading executives behind Elder Scrolls, Fallout, and Starfield, is leaving developer Bethesda after 24 years at the company. Hines, who was most recently head of publishing and senior vice president at the developer, said the decision wasn’t easy but that the time was now right, following Starfield’s launch.Starfield, a massive action role-playing game Howard described as “Skyrim in space,” launched September 6 to critical acclaim and was the company’s “first new universe” in over 25 years. Hines says he plans to spend his time “exploring interests and passions, donating time where I can, and taking more time to enjoy life.”Bethesda is part of Microsoft, which completed its $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard last week.Hines–alongside game director Todd Howard—has long been a visible face for the company’s massive franchises, like Fallout. In addition to interviews, conference appearances, and press events, Hines was also active on social media, including stunts like writing fake doctor notes ahead of Starfield’s launch, courtesy of “Uncle Pete.”Bethesda released a brief statement about Hines’ departure. “Pete’s public presence was only a small part of his role at Bethesda, although the way he represented us carried into the values he nurtured here: authenticity, integrity and passion. His contributions have been integral in building Bethesda and its family of studios into the world-class organization that it is today.”Hines is the second longtime executive in the game industry to retire this month, following Unity CEO John Riccitiello.Simon HillCarlton ReidAmanda HooverSimon Hill📨 Make the most of chatbots with our AI Unlocked newsletterIn the war against Russia, some Ukrainians carry AK-47s. Andrey Liscovich carries a shopping listHow Neuralink keeps dead monkey photos secretThe bizarre cottage industry of YouTube obituary piratesCan FTX be revived—without Sam Bankman-Fried?Your internet browser does not belong to you🔌 Charge right into summer with the best travel adapters, power banks, and USB hubsMegan FarokhmaneshLaurence RussellCallum BainsMegan FarokhmaneshAngela WatercutterAngela WatercutterMegan FarokhmaneshJennifer M. WoodMore From WIREDContact© 2023 Condé Nast. All rights reserved. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement and Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement and Your California Privacy Rights. WIRED may earn a portion of sales from products that are purchased through our site as part of our Affiliate Partnerships with retailers. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Condé Nast. Ad Choices