Housemarque‘s co-founder has left the PlayStation Studios family after 31 years. Upon his exit, the co-founder, who also served as managing director, issued a long statement to his fans. This final message highlights his legacy at Housemarque as well as his gratitude
On August 31, 2026, Housemarque shared a farewell statement from Ilari Kuittinen, who is stepping down from the game development studio. In the statement, the studio’s co-founder wrote, “After 33 years in the games industry and 31 incredible years at Housemarque—the studio I co-founded with Harri Tikkanen—today marks my last day at the company.”
“Starting out in 1993 with Terramarque, and then joining forces with Harri to establish Housemarque in 1995, we had a passion for games but no real blueprint for building a business. Looking back, I feel immensely fortunate,” the statement continued
A final message from our co-founder, Ilari Kuittinen pic.twitter.com/ubf0yZJBWq
— Housemarque (@Housemarque) August 31, 2026
Kuittinen reflected on how the studio was fortunate to be in the right place at the right time, which allowed the studio to remain independent for 26 years before joining the PlayStation Studios family
Moreover, the co-founder also reflected upon his journey with leadership in the company. He wrote, “My core purpose as a leader has always been simple: to facilitate an environment where extraordinary creators have the freedom and protection to do what they do best.”
Before concluding his statement, the co-founder expressed his gratitude to his colleagues. Kuittinen wrote, “Thank you for making the past 31 years the privilege of a lifetime. Remember our guiding light: strive to be a better professional and a better human being. Take care of each other, speak with courage, and keep pushing the boundaries of what games can be. Here’s to the next decade!”
Sami Hakala takes over as Housemarque enters a new era
Sami Hakala will take over as Housemarque as the new managing director. In a statement, the co-founder mentioned that the decision to step down as one of the studio’s leaders was made after behind-the-scenes preparation. He mentioned that on July 1st of this year, Hakala stepped into the Managing Director role for the company
Kuittinen added, “I have been supporting him and the leadership team through the end of this month to ensure complete operational continuity and stability. Housemarque’s strategy and creative vision are in exceptional hands.”
Hakala is a veteran Finnish video game executive, producer, and development director who has worked on acclaimed Housemarque projects such as Resogun, Nex Machina, and Returnal
Although Kuittinen is stepping down as CEO, he mentioned that he will stay connected with the industry, attend trade shows, and, down the line, take on the role of a mentor or consultant
