Shuhei Yoshida Departing Sony Interactive Entertainment in January 2025

Shuhei Yoshida Departing Sony Interactive Entertainment in January 2025

As a gamer with decades of experience under my belt, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia and admiration for Shuhei Yoshida. This man has been an integral part of Sony’s gaming division since the early days of PlayStation, and his contributions to the industry are immeasurable. From Ape Escape to Gran Turismo, The Legend of Dragoon, and beyond, he’s been instrumental in shaping the games we love.


On January 15th, 2025, Shuhei Yoshida, who leads the independent developer program at Sony Interactive Entertainment, will be leaving the company. After he joined Sony Corporation in April 1986, he became part of the pioneering team behind PlayStation, under Ken Kutaragi’s leadership, in February 1993. Yoshida has been an integral part of Sony’s gaming division for over 31 years.

On the official PlayStation podcast, Yoshida shared his reasoning behind his decision, humorously comparing it to revealing a new game’s launch date. Being with PlayStation since its inception, this is his 31st year with the company. As he reached the 30-year mark, he started contemplating whether it was about time for him to transition to new opportunities. The company has been thriving, after all.

I’ve got a strong affection for the PlayStation 5, and the games that are being released on it are fantastic. Moreover, I have great respect and admiration for the new leadership at PlayStation. I can’t help but feel exhilarated about the future of this gaming platform. In short, I believe PlayStation is in capable hands, and I think now is my moment to fully embrace it.

Yoshida has a rich background with Sony, having held executive producer roles for games such as Ape Escape, Gran Turismo, The Legend of Dragoon, among others. Furthermore, he served as president of Sony Computer Entertainment’s Global Studios (later known as PlayStation Studios). However, in November 2019, he chose to resign and took up the position of leading an independent game development initiative.

During my tenure at PlayStation Studios, working alongside prominent studios on AAA titles was an enjoyable experience. Yet, during events such as E3 or Gamescom, my preference always leaned towards exploring the indie game sections. There, I discovered numerous intriguing games, and more often than not, the creators were present showcasing their work. I would usually snap a photo with these developers, aiming to lend a hand in promoting these games.

Apart from some upcoming gatherings such as The Game Awards in December, Taipei Game Show in January, and DICE Summit in February, Yoshida has no immediate plans beyond these events. He expressed interest in assisting independent developers or publishers whenever they need help, and intends to remain active within the gaming industry, according to his latest tweet.

In my leisure moments, I take pleasure in aiding independent game developers or publishers. Should they ever require my assistance again, I am more than willing to oblige. Consequently, I intend to keep on supporting these innovative and skilled indie groups in the times ahead.

No, I’d like to stay in the industry 🙂

— Shuhei Yoshida (@yosp) November 27, 2024

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2024-11-27 14:41