GDQ founder Mike Uyama signs company ownership over to Matt Merkle & team

GDQ founder Mike Uyama signs company ownership over to Matt Merkle & team

As a longtime supporter and avid participant of Games Done Quick events, I can’t help but feel a mix of emotions as I witness this change of leadership. Having attended numerous GDQ marathons over the years, it’s hard not to feel a sense of nostalgia for the fond memories created under Mike Uyama’s leadership. From the very first event in 2010 to the most recent AGDQ2023, his passion and dedication have been evident in every single stream.


The transition of leadership and ownership at Games Done Quick (GDQ) has been finalized. The founder, Mike Uyama, who started GDQ in 2010, had announced earlier in 2023 his intention to step down and pass the company on to other leaders. This week marked the official transfer of GDQ ownership. With Uyama’s complete departure from the company, Matt Merkle, currently Director of Operations, will assume the role of leading the organization alongside fellow directors Jason Deng (Director of Technology) and Ashley Farkas (Business Director), who are now co-owners of GDQ.

This week, Games Done Quick officially transferred ownership to Matt Merkle, Deng, and Farkas, according to a press release. In this new arrangement, Merkle will retain his position as Director of Operations while sharing ownership responsibilities with Deng and Farkas. In a statement, Merkle expressed gratitude for Uyama’s contributions to GDQ.

I’d like to express my gratitude to Mike Uyama, not just for initiating this fantastic enterprise, but also for the selfless act of handing over his company to us. I am committed to putting in my utmost effort to uphold his legacy and maintain GDQ’s success for many years to come.

Hey there, gaming fam! I’m wrapping up our chat with the one and only, Mike Uyama, for our grand recap of AGDQ2023!

Throughout the years, we’ve shared some epic moments with Mike. Now it’s your turn to share those unforgettable memories you’ve treasured. Let’s relive them on stream together! #ThankYouMike

— Games Done Quick 🔜 #PAXWest (@GamesDoneQuick) January 15, 2023

In January 2023, Mike Uyama decided to leave Games Done Quick. The organization is planning a farewell stream in recognition of his departure. This week, he mentioned that this step seems appropriate for his wellbeing and present life needs.

Taking a break from Games Done Quick has allowed me some much-needed downtime, healing, and self-evaluation about my journey and current position in life. I trust that the dedicated team will steer GDQ towards continued success. My chapter is complete, and it’s now their turn to chart the course forward.

As a devoted gamer, I can’t help but be thrilled about Games Done Quick, one of the most entertaining gaming charities out there. With Merkle, Deng, and Farkas steering the ship, it feels like this incredible event is in capable hands. Keep an eye on Shacknews for more updates on Games Done Quick!

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2024-08-29 19:57