In a significant shift within the gaming industry, Robert Henrysson has announced his departure as CEO of Supermassive Games, just shy of two months following the launch of their latest title, Directive 8020. In a heartfelt farewell shared on LinkedIn, Henrysson reflected on his tenure, expressing pride in guiding the studio through a period marked by substantial industry transformation. He emphasized the expansion of the studio’s client base and the cultivation of a culture dedicated to quality across all facets of game development.
Leadership and Legacy
Nordisk Games, the parent company of Supermassive, acknowledged Henrysson’s extensive contributions, highlighting his broad operational role during a time of significant change. His leadership was instrumental in supporting existing portfolio companies, including his tenure as Chairman and Interim CEO of Avalanche Studios Group. Appointed with a clear mission to steer Supermassive through the successful launch of Directive 8020, Henrysson undertook the task of rebuilding the studio’s leadership team and refining its strategic direction.
Directive 8020, the latest installment in the acclaimed Dark Pictures series, has received a mixed user rating on Steam, accompanied by a modest number of reviews compared to its predecessors. However, it garnered praise from critics, with one review describing it as an “unmissable adventure for any fan of sci-fi horror,” awarding it an impressive 85%. Nordisk recognized the title for achieving the strongest critical reception in the series thus far, attributing this success to the dedication of the Supermassive team under Henrysson’s guidance.
The gaming landscape has faced challenges in recent years, with widespread layoffs affecting numerous companies as the industry adjusted to post-pandemic realities. Henrysson’s leadership came at a time when many in the sector were grappling with unforeseen difficulties, making his achievements all the more noteworthy.
As he steps away from his role, Henrysson plans to spend the summer with his family, while remaining open to future opportunities within the industry. He expressed his enduring passion for gaming and the community, indicating a willingness to consider selective advisory roles as he contemplates his next steps.