Brad McQuaid Leaves Verant

Wow, I was a bit surprised to see that Verant Interactive has released a press release announcing that Brad McQuaid, the man behind EverQuest, has left the company. Here’s a rip from the site:

SAN DIEGO, CA – October 12, 2001 – Sony Online Entertainment Inc. (SOE), announced today that Brad McQuaid, one of the original creators of EverQuest, will be leaving the company after five years of service. Mr. McQuaid was instrumental in the launch and success of the world’s largest subscription-based online game and was a key spokesman in the online community that nurtured EverQuest’s growth.
“After five years of building the EverQuest franchise for Sony Online Entertainment, it’s time for me to explore other opportunities in the creative development of massively multiplayer games,” said Brad McQuaid. “I wish SOE the greatest success with all future releases and I have the greatest confidence in the ability of the development staff that we’ve assembled over the past few years to continue expanding the EverQuest experience.”
“Brad’s contribution to gaming philosophy that evolved into EverQuest has been recognized throughout the gaming world as one of the premier accomplishments of the past decade in the business,” states John Smedley, Chief Operating Officer, Sony Online Entertainment. “It’s been a pleasure working with Brad for the past few years as a colleague and a friend and I’m certain that he will continue to contribute innovative and exciting game technology in the future.”
“Brad’s passion for excellence in all things EverQuest has made a material impact in the success of this groundbreaking title,” said Kelly Flock, President, Sony Online Entertainment. “I know he will continue to be a force in this emerging market and all of us at Sony Online Entertainment look forward to the possibility of working with him again in the future.”

John Smedley, Chief Operating Officer and a partner in the conception and production of EverQuest, will assume Brad McQuaid’s responsibilities.