Stadia Games and Entertainment opens Playa Vista studio led by now-former Sony Santa Monica head of studio Shannon Studstill [Update]

Stadia Games and Entertainment has opened a new studio in Playa Vista, California led by Shannon Studstill, the now-former head of studio of Sony Interactive Entertainment Santa Monica Studio, the company announced. The studio will focus on “delivering exclusive games [for Stadia], using new gameplay mechanics, creative ways to play together, and unique interaction models.”

While the company is “not ready to share specific game plans yet,” Stadia Games and Entertainment head of studio and VP Jade Raymond assured, “we are listening to what gamers want and adding our own Stadia twists to create new IP and experiences.”

Regarding Studstill, Raymond remarked, “I’ve been a fan of Shannon’s for a long time, and have admired her award-winning work leading Sony’s Santa Monica Studio and the industry defining franchises like God of War that have won fans all over the world. She has an extensive background in product development and creative leadership, but most importantly, she’s a visionary who, as the studio director, will lead and inspire the Playa Vista teams. We’re thrilled to welcome her to the Stadia family!”

Sony Interactive Entertainment has yet to announce a new head of studio for Sony Interactive Entertainment Santa Monica Studio. Gematsu has reached out for comment and is awaiting a response.

Update 6:10 p.m.: Sony Interactive Entertainment Santa Monica Studio has named 19-year PlayStation veteran Yumi Yang as its new head of studio. Find a statement from the developer below, via IGN.

We extend our warmest congratulations to Shannon Studstill on her new role. Under her leadership, the studio she helped found over twenty years ago masterfully reinvented itself and its greatest franchise with 2018’s Game of the Year, God of War. In her role as VP of Product Development, Shannon helped smaller independent teams incubate within the studio, leading to groundbreaking works like Journey and The Unfinished Swan. All of PlayStation is better for and grateful of her many years of exemplary service and bold creative vision.

Taking over as studio head is Yumi Yang, a 19-year PlayStation veteran with an extensive background in product development and heavy involvement across many of Santa Monica Studio’s biggest games. Her project management prowess and meticulous oversight of 2018’s God of War helped the title fully realize its groundbreaking potential. After nearly two decades and countless substantial contributions to Santa Monica Studio’s rich legacy, Yumi has the unquestioned respect and trust of her peers. With her vast experience and deep understanding of the studio’s distinct creative DNA, she is perfectly positioned to lead Santa Monica Studio to a bold and exciting future.