Developer returns to the studio he left to 'realise' MMO's potential

Former 38 Studios’ creative lead now at SOE

Steve Danuser, former creative director at defunct 38 Studios, has now become creative director on Sony Online Entertainment’s Vanguard: Saga of Heroes.

Danuser served as creative lead on 38 Studios’ abandoned Project Copernicus, as well as the story director for 2012’s Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning.

“I must say it’s great to be back,” said Danuser in a studio interview by SOE. “Seeing so many old friends and colleagues again, it feels like coming home.”

He previously worked at SOE as community manager on EverQuest II in 2003, before leaving to work on Project Copernicus in 2006.

At SOE, the creative lead is looking to revitalise the free-to-play MMO Vanguard, revitalising old content and bringing new content to the game over the coming months.

38 Studios closed its doors in June and laid off all its staff. The state of Rhode Island has a called the collapse of the studio an “economic crisis”.

About MCV Staff

Check Also

TIGA Education Skills report [Industry news] TIGA report highlights ongoing skills challenges in UK games industry as studios invest in training and adaptation

[Industry news] TIGA report highlights ongoing skills challenges in UK games industry as studios invest in training and adaptation

TIGA, the trade association representing the UK video games industry, has today published its latest Skills, Training and Education in the Games Industry 2026 report. The findings show that while the sector benefits from a strong pipeline of skilled graduates and a largely proficient workforce, skills shortages persist, particularly in specialist and emerging roles.