Shannon Studstill

With over 25 years of experience in the gaming industry, Shannon Studstill is renowned for her co-founding role in the studio that created the iconic "God of War" series. Her substantial contributions to the franchise, supported by the team's unwavering dedication, have profoundly impacted the gaming world. Over the years, in recognition of this collaborative prowess, Studstill and the teams were honored with two Game of the Year awards from the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences (AIAS), celebrating the collective achievements and dedication in the 'God of War' franchise. Her visionary leadership and commitment to quality were pivotal in establishing a high standard for the series from its inception. She reinforces the philosophy that a well-coordinated production partnership, when executed effectively, acts as a catalyst for creative teams, leading to the creation of higher quality gaming experiences overall. Throughout her career, Studstill has adeptly overseen the release of numerous indie and franchise game titles, significantly influencing the gaming landscape. As Head of Studio at Santa Monica Studio, she was instrumental in the transformative reboot of "God of War" (2018), which redefined both the franchise and the studio's trajectory. Her tenure is also distinguished by her focus on talent development, nurturing a culture of creativity and supporting teams globally. This included a strong emphasis on indie game support, propelled by Santa Monica Studio's external development initiatives. Beyond her tenure with PlayStation, Shannon Studstill continues to be a formidable influence in the gaming industry. In her consultations with top-tier game teams and developers worldwide, she applies her extensive knowledge and experience towards nurturing the next generation of game development. Studstill is a staunch advocate for the importance of solid and effective production partnerships, which she sees as crucial in achieving high-quality game development. This balanced approach, she believes, is key to creating games that are meticulously crafted and deeply engaging for players, while simultaneously ensuring the team's health and cohesion, and upholding the overall integrity of the game’s vision.