Phil Spencer, formerly general manager of Microsoft Game Studios, has been promoted to corporate vice president today as Shane Kim, the man holding the position currently, has announced his retirement. Kim’s been responsible for overseeing releases such as Gears of War 2, Fable II, and the upcoming Halo 3: ODST and Alan Wake.

Kim has been at Microsoft for 19 years, however, his retirement decision was completely voluntary, a spokesperson confirmed. Kim says he wants to sepdn more time with his friends and family. Seems like a suitable reason to retire after 19 years, if you ask me.

We wish Kim good luck on his new retirement. However, I doubt we’re seeing him leave the game. These guys always come back for another bite or two.

Microsoft’s Spencer promoted, Kim retiring [GameSpot]