Guo Weiwei, the senior vice president of Kingsoft Group, CEO of Xishanju, and producer of the acclaimed ‘JX3’ (Jian Wang 3) series, has announced his departure from Xishanju. The news broke earlier today as Guo shared his farewell on social media, marking the end of an era for the veteran game developer.
A Fond Farewell and Gratitude
In his statement, Guo expressed that his two decades spent working on ‘JX3’ have been the most fulfilling and regret-free period of his career. He extended his sincere thanks to Lei Jun, the founder of Xiaomi and a key figure at Kingsoft, as well as the Xishanju game team and the board of directors for the opportunities provided. He also acknowledged and thanked the colleagues who collaborated with him on the ‘JX3’ project.
Lei Jun responded to Guo’s announcement by sharing a heartfelt message on social media: “Thank you for your dedication and hard work over the past 22 years. I wish you all the best, and we will meet again.” This brief but poignant message underscores the long-standing relationship and mutual respect between the two.
A Legacy at Xishanju
Public records reveal Guo Weiwei’s significant contributions to the ‘JX3’ project. He held several core positions within the development team, including Executive Lead Planner, Lead Planner, Executive Producer, and Planning Director. His involvement was instrumental in shaping the game’s direction and success. In 2011, he was promoted to project lead, taking on greater responsibility.
Guo’s career at Xishanju continued to ascend, culminating in his appointment as CEO of Xishanju and Senior Vice President of Kingsoft Group in 2018. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in guiding the company’s strategic direction and fostering the growth of its gaming division, particularly the flagship ‘JX3’ franchise.
The departure of Guo Weiwei marks a significant transition for Xishanju, a company renowned for its MMORPG development. ‘JX3’, launched in 2009, has cultivated a massive and dedicated player base over the years, becoming one of China’s most successful and enduring online games. Guo’s leadership has been central to its sustained popularity and evolution.
Looking Ahead
While the specifics of Guo Weiwei’s future plans remain undisclosed, his departure is sure to be felt within the industry. His long tenure and deep involvement with ‘JX3’ have left an indelible mark. The sentiments expressed by both Guo and Lei Jun suggest a positive and amicable parting, with hopes for future collaborations or encounters.
Kingsoft and Xishanju are expected to announce new leadership for its gaming division soon. The company faces the challenge of maintaining the momentum of ‘JX3’ and continuing its legacy of developing high-quality online games. Fans and industry observers will be keenly watching how Xishanju navigates this new chapter.
The collaboration between Guo Weiwei and Lei Jun at Kingsoft spans over two decades, a testament to their shared vision and commitment to the gaming industry. Guo’s journey from planner to CEO highlights a remarkable career trajectory within one of China’s prominent technology and gaming conglomerates.
