New Riot Games President: Hoby Darling takes over from Dylan Jadeja
After a rocky start to 2025, Riot Games has officially announced a change in leadership as the gaming giants look to turn a page. Now, Hoby Darling will be taking over the role of President from the company's CEO, Dylan Jadeja, who previously occupied both roles at Riot Games.
As President, Darling will be in charge of overseeing teams working at Riot in an attempt to correct course after a series of questionable decisions have been met with widespread disapproval.
Can Hoby Darling be the leader Riot Games needs? (Credit: Riot Games)Hoby Darling: A Seasoned Head at the Helm
With more than two decades of experience working for a mix of world renowned brands in sports, tech, and creative culture, Hoby Darling's addition to Riot Games will undoubtedly come with its fair share of assets. According to Riot, Darling's work with other teams in the company aims to "help Rioters dream big, unlock creativity, and serve players around the world."
Some of the most notable positions Darling has held for other companies in the past include:
- Logitech: Senior Executive/Corporate GM 2017-2023
- Skullcandy: President and CEO 2013-2017
- Nike: Global GM for Nike+ Sport 2010-2013
- VOLCOM: Senior Vice President 2005-2010
“The first time I walked into Riot, I felt a scrappy, soulful, and courageous energy I knew I needed to be a part of. I’ve worked with a lot of companies, and there’s something special about a place that takes risks, challenges convention, and stays fiercely committed to its mission. Riot has a long history of creating experiences that truly matter to players, and I couldn’t be more excited to work alongside passionate Rioters who push each other to do their best work every day.”
-Hoby Darling, President at Riot Games
Hoby Darling has vast experience leading companies in the worlds of sports and technology. (Credit: Skullcandy)Turning the Ship Around
This latest change in leadership at such a key position for the company is expected to breathe new life into Riot Games. The start of the year has brought several waves of costumer complaints for the company, particularly in relation to League of Legends, leaving Riot in an uncomfortable position.
A string of bad decisions, which included the removal of Hextech Chests, a decrease in skin quality across the board, and the introduction of gacha mechanics to League of Legends, have left players dissatisfied with the direction of the game, with many casting blame on Dylan Jadeja, Riot's former President and current CEO.
Exalted skins like Sahn-Uzal Mordekaiser cannot be directly purchased from the store, and can cost up to $250 USD. (Credit: Riot Games)Will Darling Bring Answers?
Though the announcement of a new President is expected to bring hope to many of League of Legends' most loyal players, questions still linger in the air at Riot Games. Once a gaming company run by gamers, Riot's latest calls have been consistently disregardful of its player base. Suffice it to say this trend has not gone unnoticed.
For faith to be restored in what was once one of the most beloved gaming companies in the world, its time for Riot Games and Hoby Darling to now show its players they still care about the millions of voices that keep the lights on at the company's headquarters.
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Featured image credit: Riot Games
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