The Xbox brand is currently undergoing significant changes. Microsoft is on the verge of finalizing their massive $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard. Meanwhile, iconic Xbox franchises like Halo are not what they used to be. In yet another indication of shifting dynamics at Xbox, Larry “Major Nelson” Hryb has announced his departure from the company.
Hryb, as the director of programming for Xbox Live, has been the face of the Xbox brand for many years. Unlike other executives, Hryb actively engaged with players and participated in various online communities under the Major Nelson Gamertag. He further promoted the Xbox brand through his Major Nelson blog, podcasts, and appearances at Xbox press events. While Phil Spencer has become the primary face of Xbox in recent years, Major Nelson remained a consistent and enthusiastic presence.
However, it seems that Major Nelson’s tenure is coming to an end. Hryb recently posted a farewell statement on Twitter:
“After an incredible 20 years, I have decided to take a step back and focus on the next chapter of my career. Reflecting on all that we have accomplished together, I want to express my gratitude to the millions of gamers worldwide who have included me in their lives. I also extend my thanks to the Xbox team for their trust in allowing me to directly engage with our customers. The future of Xbox is promising, and as a gamer myself, I am excited to witness its evolution. Thank you, and I’ll see you online.”
Larry Hryb
P.S. The official Xbox Podcast will be on hiatus this summer and will return in a new format.
Hryb has not revealed any details about his next career move, but he can look back with pride on his significant contributions to Xbox over the past two decades. While the Xbox brand has experienced its ups and downs, the management of Xbox Live has consistently been a highlight.
Let’s take a moment to appreciate Major Nelson. Have any of you had memorable interactions, whether online or otherwise, with Major Nelson throughout the years?
