Riot MMO still in development with new ex-WoW producer hire

Riot Games has reignited interest in its long-awaited MMO project with the recent hiring of Raymond Bartos, a former World of Warcraft producer. This development comes as a significant update on the game’s status, which has been shrouded in uncertainty. Despite previous concerns that the project might have been canceled, the addition of Bartos to the team suggests that the game is still in development.

Bartos, who spent nearly four years at Blizzard as a Lead Producer and Senior Game Producer, will be working alongside another former Blizzard colleague, Orlando Salvatore. This move is notable, given the success of World of Warcraft, and could indicate a positive direction for the Riot MMO. The new hire was announced on January 14, 2026, and has generated renewed interest in the project.

Details about the Riot MMO remain scarce, including its gameplay style and design. The game could follow a traditional MMO model, similar to EverQuest or World of Warcraft, or it might adopt a more action-oriented approach, akin to Path of Exile 2 or Diablo 4. Riot Games has a rich universe to draw from, thanks to its popular League of Legends IP, which has a dedicated fan base eager to explore new aspects of the game world.

The hiring of a former World of Warcraft producer is a significant development, given the recent improvements in gameplay satisfaction and enjoyment in WoW’s last two expansions. This experience could bring valuable insights to the Riot MMO project, which has been undergoing a design refresh since 2024. Although there have been whispers about the game’s cancellation, the recruitment of new talent suggests that the project is still active.

The addition of Raymond Bartos to the Riot MMO team is a positive sign for fans of the genre, who have been waiting for updates on the game’s status. As the project continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the team’s expertise and experience shape the final product. With its strong foundation in the League of Legends universe, the Riot MMO has the potential to offer a unique and engaging experience for players. For now, the hiring of Bartos serves as a reminder that the game is still in development, and fans can look forward to future updates on its progress.