"Two and a half years on Star Trek Online, seven years at Cryptic Studios … and it’s time for me to move on." says Star Trek Online Executive Producer Craig Zinkievich.  In an announcement posted this morning Craig explains what a joy it's been working on STO for the past two years and what the future holds for the MMO.

"The press has asked me about the “rabid Star Trek fans.” I’ll admit that I was scared coming onto the project. However, as much as we fans like to argue about which captain was the coolest, when certain events took place and how important that making sure the windows on the Galaxy model are perfect, we accept everyone who has a respect and love for the franchise and what it means. You guys accepted Cryptic with open arms, and we’ve appreciated every post, comment and word of encouragement. It’s been easy to try the “daring thing” and be open with you about what we’re doing in STO – working with you on that has even been cooler. You guys really are the best fans in sci-fi. Thank you so much."

Also listed in the announcement is Zinkievich's successor, Dan Stahl. "I’m proud to announce that our production superstar Daniel Stahl will be taking over as STO’s EP, tasked with taking the MMO through the next phases of its life. He’s got the love of Star Trek (the Kirk photo existed before he came to Cryptic), he’s got passion for games, he’s got his finger on the pulse of the community and if you guys ever thought I was excited about the potential of what Star Trek Online can become when you saw my interviews, just wait until you get a load of Dan. It’s scary sometimes. Really. To Dan I say: Congratulations, Commander!"

What this holds for the future of Star Trek Online is unclear.  It's rather interesting with the upcoming release of Season 2, right around the corner.  According to Craig, the game has been left in good hands. "The Star Trek Online development team is the most amazing, passionate, dedicated and hardest working team that I’ve ever had the honor of working with. They constantly amaze me with the work that they put in, the care and reverence in which they approach the universe, and the sheer love for the game and its players. When it comes to Season Two, Season Three and the future of STO, there is no end to the episodes, systems and species that they want to desperately see put in the game. With Dan in the Captain’s chair, I’m confident that this team will be true to Star Trek’s vision and continue to expand STO to its fullest potential."

Read the full announcement here.

(source Star Trek Online)