Arc Raiders is such a huge hit, Nexon has put Embark Studios CEO Patrick Söderlund in charge of everything else too
PC Gamer
by Andy Chalk February 20, 2026
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Patrick Söderlund, the founder and CEO of Embark Studios, has been appointed as Nexon's executive chairman, marking a significant shift in the company's creative direction. Known for his leadership on hit titles like *Arc Raiders*, which has become one of 2025's top games, Söderlund will now oversee Nexon's long-term strategy and global game development while continuing to lead Embark Studios. This move underscores Nexon's commitment to leveraging its vast assets—iconic franchises, dedicated player communities, and cutting-edge live-service capabilities—to drive growth in the gaming industry.
Söderlund brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having previously held executive positions at DICE and Electronic Arts. His career highlights include leading DICE after its acquisition by EA in 2006 and co-founding Refraction Games in 1997, which later became part of DICE. After leaving EA in 2018, he founded Embark Studios, where *Arc Raiders* achieved remarkable success. Nexon acquired Embark in 2021, solidifying Söderlund's position as a key figure in the company's future.
This appointment is a strategic move for Nexon, aiming to transform its creative output and global reach. Söderlund's track record of building successful studios and delivering major hits aligns with Nexon's goals. "Nexon has all the ingredients for dramatic growth," he stated, emphasizing the need for focus and discipline in achieving this vision. With Söderlund at the helm, Nexon is
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Originally published on PC Gamer on 2/20/2026