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PETER MOORE RESIGNS FROM MICROSOFT, WILL JOIN ELECTRONIC ARTS

In a completely unexpected and shocking turn of events, Peter Moore, corporate vice president of entertainment and devices at Microsoft, has tendered his resignation effective July 30th, 2007. Moore, who has essentially been the face of the Xbox 360 since it’s launch will be joining Electronic Arts as president of the EA Sports line of games.

You know, when I first saw the story break yesterday as a rumor at Kotaku, I could scarcely believe that it was possible. If it weren’t for the fact that I trust Kotaku’s Managing Editor, Brian Crecente, to not post every rumor he hears, I would have just written it off in my mind as wild speculation. By the time I got home, Microsoft and Electronic Arts had confirmed the story, MS had already spoken with most of the major game news outlets and Moore’s new salary had already been uncovered. It’s certainly a case of things happening at a lightning fast pace.

While rumors regarding the situation are certainly flooding the internet, Microsoft has stated that Moore’s decision to move on from the company was due to his desire to return to California. I’m sure the 1.5 million dollar signing bonus, $550,000 annual salary, possible $412,500 in bonuses, $330,000 in moving expenses and option to buy 400,000 shares of EA stock had something to do with it as well. Yeah, that’s a while lot of money.

Microsoft wasted no time in naming current external advisor to Microsoft and former EA Worldwide studios president Don Mattrick as Moore’s replacement. While Moore is due to step down on the 30th, he will be remaining with Microsoft for a few weeks beyond that date in order to assist during the transition period.

You know, I did think it was kind of strange that Moore didn’t really headline this year’s Microsoft E3 press conference, but I just chalked it up to someone in marketing having a “brilliant” idea for the show. I never would have thought that it could be a sign that Moore was on his way out. (Please note that I’m just speculating about that being the reason Moore wasn’t front and center at the E3 press conference)

I don’t know about you guys, but I’m going to miss Moore. He may have had a bit of a used car salesman vibe about him at times, but the man sure could talk a good game. Anyway, I’ll be in the corner picking up my jaw for the next few hours if anyone needs me.

July 18, 2007 Posted by | Corporate Shuffle, Don Mattrick, Electronic Arts, Microsoft, Peter Moore, Xbox 360 | 1 Comment