It is with deep sadness that we are reporting the death of veteran MMORPG developer Brad McQuaid. Brad passed away at his home late last night at the age of 51.
McQuaid was instrumental in the creation and design of some of the world’s best MMORPGs. During his tenure with Sony Online Entertainment, Brad led the development of EverQuest, one of the first globally successful MMOs. After leaving SOE, McQuaid founded Sigil Games and developed Vanguard: Saga of Heroes. Most recently, McQuaid was the president and CEO of Visionary Realms and was working on Pantheon: Rise of the Fallen.
The announcement of McQuaid’s death was made via the Pantheon Twitter several hours ago.
It is with deep regret we share that Brad McQuaid passed away last night. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by gamers worldwide.
Thank you for bringing us together through your worlds. Rest in peace @Aradune.
VR offers our deepest condolences to Brad’s family.
— Pantheon (@PantheonMMO) November 20, 2019
Many in the MMO community are expressing their shock and sadness over Brad’s passing including former SOE CEO John Smedley.
It kills me to even write this – Brad McQuaid has passed away – https://t.co/zHynbbo2Bc
— John Smedley (@j_smedley) November 20, 2019
Brad was an amazingly talented creator and Everquest wouldn’t exist without his genius. He will be missed
— John Smedley (@j_smedley) November 20, 2019
Smedley is leading a drive for fans, friends, and players to post their “touching EQ stories to @aradune so Brad’s wife and daughter can feel just a little of the way he touched our lives”.
Others in the small and close-knit community of MMO development have expressed their sorrow as well. This includes the official Twitter account for EverQuest and other persons of note within the community.
From the EverQuest Teams,
We are devastated to hear of the passing of Brad McQuaid and are eternally grateful for the EverQuest Universe he was instrumental in creating. His effect on all of us is immeasurable & life-changing.
Continue your great quest, Aradune.
— EverQuest (@everquest) November 20, 2019
As expected, the EverQuest and Pantheon communities are alit with an outpouring of grief and shock. The EverQuest Reddit, Pantheon Reddit, and forums for both (EQ, Pantheon) are filled with notes of sadness and fond memories of the worlds created by Brad McQuaid.
Pantheon’s Community Manager Ben Dean has requested that fans “respect the privacy of Brad’s family” during this difficult time.
We extend our love and support to Brad’s family and friends as well. He was a true visionary and will be sorely missed. The MMO genre and gaming, in general, are richer for the worlds he created.
Suzie Ford
I’m shocked and saddened by this terrible news. While only a very brief EverQuest player, I always followed Brad’s work wherever he went. He brought passion and energy to a sometimes stale genre. I’m truly grateful for all that he contributed to MMOs and to gaming. He will truly be missed.