Julien Merceron joins Bandai Namco

The former head of the Fox Engine at Konami has joined rival Japanese publisher and developer Bandai Namco.

Julien Merceron reportedly left the role of worldwide technology director at Konami back in September. Prior to that he had served under the same role at Square Enix. Now he has assumed the job title for a third time at the Dark Souls publisher.

I’m extremely excited to be given an opportunity to make a difference within the amazing Bandai Namco Group, so well-known for its iconic IPs,” Merceron said.

I’m looking forward to empowering the teams I’ll be working with and accelerate growth, innovation and creativity. The reach of this group goes well beyond games, it is a true multimedia and entertainment group, so I know I will learn a lot too.

Working with so many experienced people and friends and focusing on a wider range of entertainment forms is the chance of a lifetime. Within Bandai Namco Studios, there is a true opportunity to have a worldwide reach with original content.

Bandai Namco CEO Hajime Nakatani Added: I am very happy to welcome Mr Merceron. The studio will continue to accelerate its efforts worldwide.

In line with the evolution of information-communication technology, innovative services through VR/AR/IoT are being created, and we are facing a chance to create a lifestyle and entertainment that has never been imagined. In such revolutionary times, in order to create the best product for the world, we would like to evolve the studio together with Mr Merceron.”