Jack Buser, formerly Director for Games at Google Stadia, is leaving for Google Cloud. On September 13, Buser is stepping in as Google Cloud’s Director of Global Gaming Solutions.
The transition is indicative of Google’s evolving strategy in the gaming department. While the shadow of Google’s digital graveyard continues to loom over Google Stadia, gaming remains “one of the key verticals we are investing in,” as Google spokesperson told ZDNet. It’s just that the tech giant is further shifting its priorities from in-house game development to offering a technological platform for third-party studios and publishers.
“We’re seeing huge momentum [in gaming] across all products and services. Jack’s new role will allow us to better bring customers the best of Google across our Cloud services, Stadia, YouTube, and more,” the company said in a statement to The Verge.
As for Stadia, Google insists it’s not giving up on it just yet:
“Stadia continues to be led by its GM Phil Harrison, and Stadia’s business development and partner management teams will continue to be led by Michael Abbattista, who took over the role in 2020.” In fact, the company hopes that Buser’s new role will help Stadia secure new partnerships and product opportunities.
Buser has 20 years of industry experience. Prior to his five-year tenure with Google, Buser spent nearly a decade at PlayStation, where he led Sony’s own cloud gaming efforts with PlayStation Now.