A Message from Holly “Windstalker” Longdale

Greetings Norrathians,

It is time to bid ye all a heartfelt fond farewell.

I will be taking my leave from Darkpaw Games for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I owe to all the players and developers of EverQuest and EverQuest II.

From my first experience at EverQuest’s launch as a dark elf wizard trying to leave Neriak for two hours, to joining the EverQuest and EverQuest II teams, my life has been a thrill and a blessing. For more than a decade, I’ve felt honored and thankful to have been a part of the lives of so many players and our amazing family of developers.

I’ve seen these games grow and evolve for so many years. I took part in the first-ever instanced content and forging new ground with Lost Dungeons of Norrath. I had the honor of working with Brad “Aradune” McQuaid, John Smedley, and a great number of talented people.

Both games have grown through the rise of nostalgia with progression servers in ways we didn’t expect. Above all, our community is ever-present, guiding and informing us, and helping us make better choices.

Our success as a franchise is built upon the love of those who live in Norrath. I can’t thank every one of you enough for being part of this magical life. I will miss you, but I won’t be far away!

My passion and love for EverQuest and EverQuest II is unending. Even though I am leaving Darkpaw Games as a producer for now, I will remain part of the community as a player.

For now, our intrepid Franchise Technical Director and EQ veteran Jennifer Chan will take hold of the reigns with gusto and head up the studio. She has been my leadership partner for over 5 years and excels at keeping us on track, improving our technology, and making sure everything gets done as smoothly as possible.

I promise you that the game and teams are in more-than-capable hands.

Rest assured, Norrath will continue to grow and prosper as I hope you all will.

Much love to one and all, forever. And, as always, I’ll see you in game,



Holly “Windstalker” Longdale

Be well. Thank you so much for so many good years and good times. You will be sorely missed.

Wow! That was unexpected.

Best wishes on wherever your new adventures bring you, Holly, and thanks for helping us keep the Everquest franchise alive.

Good Luck Holly, even if you bullied me

so long and thanks for all the fish
looking forward to hear more about that once-in-a-lifetime opportunity

Best wishes Holly!

Thanks for your steady hand in steering the ship during the storms.

Edit: I definitely appreciate your brass tracks approach by focusing on the two core games!

What a shock! But also I'm glad for the opportunity you've got before you.

Totally going to have a massive wolf and bear hunt in your honor.

Truly sad to hear.

May your paths be fair, and your pints be full.

Kitty

Thanks for everything and best wishes

Sorry to see you go, Holly. You will be missed.

Good Luck in your next job...whatever it is?? ( Inquiring minds want to know, lol)

Is it WoTC? =D

Fair winds and safe travels. May your new role bring you all you desire and deserve.

But, But what about EQ3???

Anyway, hope you enjoy your new job. Best of Luck.

Hopefully this isn't a prelude for things to come.

As Vhalen would say:

"Till yonder."

Oh, Holly, we will miss you! I hope that opportunity turns out to be all you dream it to be and more. Thank you for all you have done for EQ2 - the game has given me many years of enjoyment, and I look forward to many more, although your successor is gonna have big shoes to fill.

You will always be one of the best Windstalker.

Holly, you are well loved and greatly appreciated for all you have done for the Norathian saga. All the best to you on your chosen path.

p.s. I forgive you for killing me that one time out in Antonica. Mostly.

That's weird - could have sworn there were more posts when I glanced at this earlier. Guess that's a tale for a different day.

Fair winds and following seas, Holly. May you find what you're looking for without them finding you first.

LOL at all the deleted posts. Hope you're getting paid OT.