Yahoo Lifestyle Russo Brothers’ AGBO Hires Nifty Games Exec Pete Wanat as Head of Gaming and Digital Experiences (EXCLUSIVE)
Anthony and Joe Russo’s indie studio AGBO has named Nifty Games vet Pete Wanat as president of interactive technology.
In his new role, Wanat will oversee the studio’s gaming strategy and immersive digital experiences. He will report to AGBO chief creative officer Angela Russo-Otstot.
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Most recently, Wanat was chief creative officer at Nifty Games. Prior to that position, he was vice president of games for Universal Pictures Digital Platforms Group where he worked to develop titles based on popular IP across film, TV and sports.
Wanat’s notable games include “Scarface: The World is Yours,” “Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay,” “Ghostbusters: The Video Game,” “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World,” “Jurassic Park,” “The Thing” and “NBA Jam.”
Wanat’s appointment comes on the heels of the Russo Brothers’ AGBO bringing aboard Donald Mustard, a co-creator of Fortnite and former chief creative officer at Epic Games, and Chris Brearton, former head of MGM Studios who shepherded the studio’s sale to Amazon.
“AGBO’s masterful approach to storytelling and commitment to rich world-building uniquely positions us to create revolutionary new interactive entertainment,” AGBO partner Donald Mustard said. “Pete’s
unparalleled expertise and deep understanding of game development and interactive platforms will allow
us to seamlessly integrate our characters and stories into new, unforgettable projects. With his leadership, we can create expansive universes that extend across film, television, and gaming—offering audiences deeper ways to engage with our stories.”
Russo-Otstot added: “Today’s announcement reflects AGBO’s commitment to pioneering the future of storytelling. Pete is a visionary in the gaming industry, and we are thrilled to welcome him as a key member of our team. His expertise will enhance our ability to leverage AGBO’s unified asset pipeline, empowering us to create seamless narratives and experiences that bridge both linear and interactive mediums.”
“AGBO is at the forefront of empowering artists to innovate by incorporating their original IP into new forms of interactive entertainment,” Wanat said. “I look forward to leveraging my deep passion and experience in gaming to support the in-house teams, expand the studio’s capabilities, and build upon AGBO’s culture of innovation and collaboration.”
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