AGBO Appoints Gaming Veteran Pete Wanat as Head of Interactive Technology
AGBO, the independent and artist-driven studio founded by renowned filmmakers Anthony and Joe Russo, has welcomed industry expert Pete Wanat as its new president of interactive technology.
The Vision Behind AGBO
Based in Los Angeles, AGBO was launched in 2017 by the Russo Brothers along with their producing partner Mike Larocca. The studio aims to redefine storytelling for the future. Its innovative approach has attracted considerable attention in the entertainment sector—highlighted by a remarkable $400 million investment from Nexon in 2022.
Pete Wanat’s Game-Changing Role
“At AGBO, we empower creators to explore new horizons through their unique intellectual properties within interactive entertainment,” commented Wanat on his appointment. “I am eager to channel my extensive gaming expertise and enthusiasm into supporting our talented teams while enriching our culture of creativity and collaboration.”
A Robust Background in Gaming
Pete Wanat brings over two decades of experience to his role as a gaming executive. He is celebrated for his talent in crafting critically acclaimed video games that resonate well with audiences across film, television, and sports franchises. His influential work includes titles associated with hit series like Jurassic World, Fast & Furious, LEGO adaptations, South Park games, Despicable Me projects—alongside partnerships involving organizations such as NFL and NBA.
A Track Record of Collaboration with Cinematic Innovators
Before joining AGBO, Wanat was chief creative officer at Nifty Games and also served as vice president of games for Universal Pictures’ Digital Platforms Group. His career trajectory is distinguished by collaborative endeavors with leading filmmakers such as Chris Meledandri (founder of Illumination), Gore Verbinski (Pirates of the Caribbean), and Christopher Nolan (Inception) to transform cinematic narratives into compelling interactive experiences.
Pioneers Behind AGBO’s Success
Apart from the Russo brothers’ leadership influence, notable figures at AGBO include Donald Mustard—a former Epic Games executive known for his pivotal role on Fortnite—and Chris Brearton who previously led MGM Studios.
“AGBO’s expertise in immersive storytelling coupled with strong world-building uniquely enables us to craft groundbreaking interactive content,” Mustard stated recently. “Pete’s wealth of knowledge regarding game design will facilitate our ability to merge characters alongside plots seamlessly across diverse formats.”
The Responsibilities Ahead for Wanat
As head of interactive technology at AGBO, Wanat will orchestrate development strategies focused on enhancing engagement through cutting-edge digital experiences while reporting directly to chief creative officer Angela Russo-Otstot.
“This announcement affirms our commitment toward revolutionizing storytelling,” expressed Russo-Otstot during her statement announcing this significant move. “As an industry visionary amidst gaming changes today’s creators face significant challenges; we believe that Pete’s insight allows us an advantage when utilizing our combined assets seamlessly across both traditional linear narratives along dynamic platforms.”
Additions to Leadership Team
The expansion continues:
Recently appointed Dominic Hughes has come onboard as chief scientific officer following numerous AI initiatives he spearheaded while at Apple; he’s also affiliated academically within UC Berkeley’s Logic Group proving entry close-up alignments between scientific advances affecting media landscapes today moving forward into gamified realms involving innovation efforts continuously being undertaken by established studios globally!
