Earnest Yuen is one of Microsoft’s longest-serving gaming veterans and has been a key figure at the company, with work dating back to Windows 95. During his 31-year career, he contributed to more than 50 games and products. Today, however, Yuen announced his departure from Microsoft on LinkedInsharing some candid thoughts about his time at Microsoft.
“After 31 years at Microsoft, I have decided it is time to begin a new adventure: retirement.
When I joined in 1994, the Internet was still finding its feet, game development looked very different, and I certainly didn’t expect that more than three decades later I’d still be having so much fun working with incredibly talented people…
To everyone I’ve worked with at Microsoft, XBOX, World’s Edge, and across the gaming industry, thank you. “Your trust, collaboration, support and, above all, your friendship have meant more than you imagine.”
Guiding the resurgence of Age of Empires
Yuen is perhaps best known for his work on the Age of empires franchise, helping guide the series through the resurgence it has enjoyed in recent years.. He became one of the public faces of the franchise, working on projects ranging from Age of Empires: Definitive Edition to the most recent release, Age of Mythology: Retold.
In his retirement announcement, Yuen also shared what’s coming next, outlining plans that many players can probably appreciate.
“As for what’s next? More time with family, new adventures, some long-forgotten hobbies, and maybe, for the first time in decades, playing games without any production meetings attached. Of course, I’ll still enjoy catching up with friends about games, business, and long careers, just with a lighter touch on the calendar and fewer things that require slides.
I leave grateful, proud and excited for what comes next, for me and for the teams that carry things forward.
Thank you for being part of this fantastic journey.”
After 31 years at Microsoft, I begin a new adventure: retirement. From Age of Empires to Age of Mythology, Killer Instinct and more, it’s been an incredible journey. Grateful for the players, the teams and the memories. 🎮More here:https://t.co/zMjrFOyFeZJune 19, 2026
It will be sad to see Yuen go. In fact, I have very fond memories of the Age of Empires franchise from when I was little. Games like Age of empires and Civilization They’re the ones I remember playing with my dad on our old PC in the living room, so seeing the franchise enjoy such a massive resurgence thanks in part to Yuen’s work has always made me smile.
With that, I wish you all the best in whatever comes next. If Yuen or Age of Empires has meant anything to you over the years, I’d love to hear about it in the comments and be sure to take our poll below!
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